Kelp Forest Ecosystem Dynamics

The video explains ecosystems, focusing on kelp forests as examples. It highlights the importance of keystone species, like sea otters, in maintaining ecosystem balance through predation. The absence of otters can lead to an overpopulation of sea urchins, which harms the kelp forest. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these ecosystems from pollution and other threats.

What is an ecosystem?

• A group of non-living things

• A type of plant found in forests

• A community of interacting organisms and their environment

• A single species living in isolation

Which of the following is an example of a keystone species?

• Sand

• Sea otters

• Kelp

• Sea urchins

What does the term 'predation' refer to?

• The act of one organism eating another

• The migration of animals

• The growth of plants

• The process of photosynthesis

How do sea otters help maintain the balance in their ecosystem?

• By providing shelter for fish

• By eating kelp

• By being prey for sea urchins

• By controlling sea urchin populations

What is the primary diet of sea urchins in the kelp forest?

• Small fish

• Kelp

• Sand

• Sea otters

What might happen if sea otters were removed from the ecosystem?

• Sea urchin populations would decrease

• The kelp forest would thrive

• The ecosystem would remain unchanged

• Sea urchin populations would increase

Why is the kelp forest important for organisms like the scaribaldi and turban snail?

• It is a source of fresh water

• It is a breeding ground for all fish

• It provides food and shelter

• It offers a place for hibernation

What is the consequence of sea urchins overpopulating the kelp forest?

• More food for sea otters

• Stabilization of the ecosystem

• Decreased kelp and loss of habitat for other species

• Increased biodiversity

What is the role of a keystone species in an ecosystem?

• To be the most numerous species

• To maintain the balance and health of the ecosystem

• To provide food for all other species

• To dominate the ecosystem

How can humans help protect sea otters?

• By introducing more sea urchins

• By reducing pollution and other threats

• By cutting down kelp forests

• By relocating them to new habitats