Changes in an Ecosystem

What is succession?

• the continuation of an ecosystem in its present state

• the balance between humans and nature in an ecosystem

• the way to stop pollution in an ecosystem

• the gradual growth of new organisms in an ecosystem

Which of the following is a natural disaster that could wipe out an ecosystem?

• a sunny day

• a rain storm

• a forest fire

• an oil spill

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Why would algae grow in a lake?

• because the lake is polluted

• because the lake is a newly created ecosystem

• because there are a lot of fish in the lake

• because a natural disaster destroyed the lake

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What is the purpose of succession?

• to put an end to the creation of new ecosystems

• to form a complete ecosystem

• to have ecosystems that last no longer than two years

• to eliminate the need for conservation

Which of the following is true about an ecosystem?

• Ecosystems can never change.

• Natural disasters cannot harm an ecosystem.

• Humans are the only threat to an ecosystem.

• Ecosystems can change over time.

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How would beavers building a dam cause an increase in the fish population? The dam

• blocks a river and creates a lake.
• causes predators to hunt more fish.
• forces many birds to leave the ecosystem.
• removes trees from around the river.

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The Coqui frog is native to Puerto Rico. These frogs were accidentally introduced in Hawaii. Coqui frogs are extremely noisy; since they are nocturnal they make loud noises at night. Although these frogs are small, they eat a lot! They eat insects and spiders that are also eaten by birds in Hawaii. Besides being noisy, how do these frogs most likely harm other animals? 

• By causing other animals to reproduce more.
• By competing with other animals for food.
• By eating foods that no other animals eat.
• By moving slower than most other animals.

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Raccoons eat aquatic animals. If chemicals entered the lake with rain water and destroyed the plants, how would this impact the raccoon population?

• Raccoons would have more aquatic animals to eat.
• Raccoons would begin eating land plants.
• Raccoons would have less aquatic animals to eat.
• Raccoons would only drink water.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-1

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A park is home to a large number of robins, squirrels and rabbits. The robins and squirrels live in the park’s trees. The robins feed on earthworms and insects that live on the ground. The squirrels eat the acorns produced by the park’s oak trees. The rabbits hide in the bushes and feed on the grass. Which factor would negatively impact the number of rabbits living in the park?

• Collecting acorns off the ground.
• Planting more trees.
• Removing park bushes.
• Removing the squirrels.

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What would cause a decrease in the rabbit population?

• An increase in grass growing
• A decrease in caterpillars
• An increase in owls
• An increase in fox

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