5.L.2.2 Ecosystems

Which is an example of a decomposer?

• a hawk

• a mouse

• a flower

• a mushroom

In a food chain, the sun provides energy for an apple tree to grow. A deer eats an apple from the tree. Which is a consumer?

• the tree

• the apple

• the sun

• the deer

An ecosystem is a community of organisms interacting with their physical environment. Why are decomposers an important part of ecosystems?

• They break down dead organisms to return nutrients to the soil.

• They produce their own food for survival.

• They play a role in preventing weathering and erosion.

• They provide most of the energy to consumers.

Which best describes a producer?

• an organism that gets its energy from plants

• a plant that makes its own food

• the sun because it provides energy for plants

• an organism that gets its energy from animals

Tyler is classifying organisms according to their source of energy. Based on the food chain pictured, which organism would be considered a carnivore?

• ant
• bird
• maple leaf

What best describes the roles of the organisms pictured in order from left to right?

• consumer, producer, consumer
• producer, decomposer, consumer
• consumer, decomposer, consumer

In which category are all living things most directly dependent upon the sun for energy?

• carnivores

• producers

• herbivores

• decomposers

Which best describes how decomposers help support life in an ecosystem?

• Decomposers add nutrients to the soil.

• Decomposers provide a habitat in the ecosystem.

• Decomposers add producers to the ecosystem.

• Decomposers provide energy for consumers.

Which will most likely cause a decrease in predator populations?

• an increase in prey populations

• a decrease in prey populations

• a decrease in decomposers

• an increase in producers

Bacteria are released into the Gulf of Mexico to help clean up an oil spill. What role do the bacteria serve in the marine ecosystem?

• decomposers

• consumers

• producers

• predators