Wolves Have Taken Over a Marine Ecosystem

The video explores the unique ecosystem on Pleasant Island, Alaska, where wolves have become apex predators in a marine environment. Initially feeding on deer, the wolves shifted to sea otters as their primary food source. This shift highlights the role of sea otters in maintaining kelp forests and ecosystem balance. The coexistence of wolves and sea otters offers a rare opportunity to study interactions between two apex predators. Despite concerns, the wolves' diet appears sustainable, allowing them to thrive without depleting the sea otter population.

What role do wolves play in the ecosystem on Pleasant Island?

• They are the primary prey for sea otters.

• They are apex predators controlling the deer population.

• They are scavengers feeding on leftovers.

• They are herbivores maintaining plant life.

How do sea otters contribute to the health of the nearshore ecosystem?

• By building dams like beavers.

• By eating kelp and promoting its growth.

• By controlling the sea urchin population.

• By providing food for wolves.

What was the impact of reintroducing sea otters to Glacier Bay National Park?

• It led to a decline in fish populations.

• It caused the extinction of local deer.

• It helped restore the nearshore ecosystem.

• It resulted in increased pollution.

Why is the interaction between wolves and sea otters on Pleasant Island unique?

• Because sea otters are not native to the area.

• Because wolves are not typically marine animals.

• Because it is the only place where their ranges overlap.

• Because wolves and sea otters have never coexisted before.

What dietary change did the Pleasant Island wolves undergo?

• They started eating more deer.

• They began consuming sea otters.

• They switched to a plant-based diet.

• They became scavengers.

How many adult sea otters do wolves need to consume annually to sustain their population?

• 150

• 90

• 200

• 50

What is the current status of the Pleasant Island wolves?

• They are thriving and have had cubs.

• They have left the island.

• They are struggling to survive.

• They are extinct.