Exploring the Everglades Ecosystem

What type of ecosystem is the Everglades known for?

• Desert

• Mountainous

• Wetland

• Forest

Which of the following is NOT a plant found in the Everglades?

• Palmettos

• Sawgrass

• Cacti

• Stash Pines

What role do plants play in the Everglades ecosystem?

• Decomposers

• Producers

• Secondary consumers

• Primary consumers

Which trophic level is occupied by herbivores?

• Level 4

• Level 1

• Level 2

• Level 3

Which organism is considered an apex predator in the Everglades?

• Great blue heron

• Florida panther

• Mosquito larvae

• Mosquito fish

What percentage of energy is typically passed from one trophic level to the next?

• 10%

• 25%

• 50%

• 75%

Why is the food pyramid shaped as it is?

• To show the decrease in biodiversity

• To illustrate the decrease in biomass and energy

• To highlight the increase in animal size

• To demonstrate the increase in energy efficiency

What is the primary role of decomposers in the ecosystem?

• To consume plants

• To hunt other animals

• To break down organic waste

• To produce oxygen

Which of the following is a decomposer?

• Mosquito fish

• Sawgrass

• Earthworm

• Alligator

Why are decomposers considered important for the food pyramid?

• They consume the most biomass

• They are at the top of the food pyramid

• They provide energy for plants

• They recycle nutrients back into the soil