Intro to Ecosystems

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Question 1: Do herbivores eat animals?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

No. Herbivores eat plants.

Is a mushroom a decomposer?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Yes. They break down dead organisms as do some bacteria.

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Are cows considered producers in an ecosystem?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

No. Plants and plankton are producers because they can make food using photosynthesis.

Does energy flow from the Sun to an apex predator by way of other members in an ecosystem?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Yes. Energy flows up the levels of the Energy Pyramid.

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Are nutrients AND energy recycled in an ecosystem?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

No. The nutrients ARE recycled. But much of the energy is lost (used up) so is not recycled, though is replenished by new sunlight.

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NGSS.MS-LS1-6

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Are a predator's sharp teeth an example of a behavioral adaptation?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

No. That’s a structural adaptation. Behavioral would be an activity.

Are ecosystems considered dynamic? 

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Yes. Their members and the environment is always changing.

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If a species goes extinct, is that because it failed to adapt to a changing ecosystem?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Yes. Even if the cause of the ecosystem’s change is extreme, like weather.

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