Ecosystem Dynamics and Population Effects

The video tutorial explores biodiversity through a gizmo activity, examining how different factors affect ecosystem stability. Students observe population changes over time, the impact of removing species, and food web dynamics. The tutorial highlights scenarios that lead to ecosystem collapse and emphasizes the importance of producers in maintaining balance.

What is the initial population of prairie dogs in the ecosystem simulation?

• 10,000

• 25,000

• 50,000

• 5,000

What does a stable line in the population graph indicate about the ecosystem?

• The ecosystem is declining

• The ecosystem is growing

• The ecosystem is unstable

• The ecosystem is in equilibrium

What happens to the grass population when all animals are removed for 20 years?

• The grass increases

• The grass remains the same

• The grass decreases

• The grass dies

What natural event could cause a temporary reduction in grass population?

• An earthquake

• A fire

• A drought

• A flood

What is the role of foxes in the ecosystem's food web?

• Herbivores

• Producers

• Decomposers

• Carnivores

What is the consequence of removing all grass from the ecosystem?

• The ecosystem thrives

• The ecosystem remains stable

• The ecosystem grows

• The ecosystem collapses

What happens to the fox population if all ferrets are removed?

• Foxes increase

• Foxes remain stable

• Foxes decrease

• Foxes are unaffected

Why is the producer important in an ecosystem?

• They are at the top of the food chain

• They are the least important

• They consume all other organisms

• They provide energy for all other organisms

What happens to the ecosystem if a disease affects only ferrets?

• The ecosystem collapses

• The ecosystem grows

• The ecosystem remains stable

• The ecosystem thrives

What can cause an ecosystem to return to equilibrium after a disturbance?

• Introduction of new species

• Complete removal of a species

• Permanent changes

• Natural recovery processes