Biomagnification

The video tutorial explains biomagnification, a process where the concentration of a substance increases in the tissues of organisms across different levels of a food chain. Using mercury as an example, it describes how this toxic chemical is released into the environment and transformed into methylmercury, which is absorbed by small marine organisms. As these organisms are consumed by larger animals, the mercury concentration increases, leading to higher levels in top predators. The video also discusses bioaccumulation, the buildup of chemicals in organisms, and the adverse effects of biomagnification on wildlife and humans, including reproductive issues in seabirds and the impact of pesticides.

What is biomagnification?

• The decrease in population of a species due to environmental changes.

• The increasing concentration of a substance in organisms through the food chain.

• The process of organisms growing larger over time.

• The process of photosynthesis in plants.

How does mercury enter the food chain?

• By direct consumption by humans.

• By being absorbed by plants on land.

• Through the air we breathe.

• Through bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms.

What is bioaccumulation?

• The breakdown of chemicals in the environment.

• The natural decay of organic matter.

• The process of animals migrating to new areas.

• The buildup of a chemical in a living organism.

Why are animals higher on the food chain more affected by mercury?

• They have a faster metabolism.

• They live longer than other animals.

• They consume larger quantities of food.

• They ingest prey with stored methylmercury.

What other substances besides mercury are known to biomagnify?

• Salt and sugar.

• Carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

• Pesticides used in farming.

• Water and oxygen.