Decomposers and Pond Ecosystems

Doug shares his experience of keeping fish as pets, learning about the importance of setting up a proper habitat, including using a filter to manage waste. He discovers that ponds naturally manage waste through decomposers, unlike fish tanks. Doug learns about the balance needed between decomposers and oxygen levels in water ecosystems.

What type of unusual pet did Doug keep as a child?

• A tarantula

• An axolotl

• A hamster

• A parrot

Why is it necessary to treat tap water before adding it to a fish tank?

• To change the color

• To add nutrients

• To remove chlorine

• To increase oxygen

What was the main issue causing Doug's fish to become sick?

• Wrong type of food

• Too much light

• Lack of a filter

• Overfeeding

What role do decomposers play in a pond ecosystem?

• They produce oxygen

• They increase water temperature

• They break down waste

• They provide food for fish

Why don't ponds need filters like fish tanks do?

• Ponds are larger

• Ponds have natural decomposers

• Ponds have more plants

• Ponds have more sunlight

What is 'pond muck' primarily composed of?

• Sand and rocks

• Dead plant and animal material

• Algae and seaweed

• Fish scales

What is a potential downside of having too many decomposers in a pond?

• They attract predators

• They produce too much oxygen

• They make the water too clear

• They compete with fish for oxygen

How do decomposers affect the oxygen levels in a pond?

• They increase oxygen levels

• They decrease oxygen levels

• They have no effect

• They only affect carbon dioxide levels

What can fish owners add to their tanks to help manage waste without relying solely on filters?

• Colored gravel

• Extra plants

• Decomposers like bacteria

• More fish

What is one way to reduce carbon dioxide levels in a pond?

• Use a water heater

• Increase sunlight exposure

• Introduce more plants

• Add more fish