Ecosystems and Their Dynamics

Mr. Anderson discusses ecosystems, focusing on the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. He explains the concept of primary productivity, trophic levels, and food webs. The video also covers population growth, carrying capacity, and the impact of human activities on ecosystems, using examples like wolves and elk in Yellowstone and the white bark pine affected by climate change.

What is the primary reason Yellowstone National Park was originally established?

• To establish a research center

• To promote tourism

• To protect geothermal features

• To conserve wildlife

What does primary productivity measure in an ecosystem?

• The diversity of organisms

• The biomass produced by producers

• The amount of energy consumed

• The number of species present

Which of the following best describes a food web?

• A linear sequence of organisms

• A network of interconnected food chains

• A single path of energy flow

• A diagram of trophic levels

In a food chain, what does the direction of the arrow represent?

• The flow of energy from consumer to producer

• The flow of energy from producer to consumer

• The size of the organism

• The speed of energy transfer

What is the term for the maximum population size that an environment can sustain?

• Carrying capacity

• Population density

• Logistic growth

• Exponential growth

What was the primary prey for wolves reintroduced into Yellowstone?

• Bison

• Deer

• Moose

• Elk

How does climate change affect the White Bark Pine in Yellowstone?

• It has no effect on them

• It leads to a decline in their population

• It causes them to produce more pine nuts

• It increases their growth rate

What role do squirrels play in the ecosystem involving the White Bark Pine?

• They act as predators

• They disperse seeds

• They consume pine nuts and create middens

• They pollinate the trees

What is a potential consequence of the decline in White Bark Pine due to climate change?

• Increased food supply for grizzly bears

• No impact on the ecosystem

• Reduced food supply for squirrels and grizzly bears

• More pine nuts available for other species

What is a key factor that can lead to changes in an ecosystem's equilibrium?

• Stable climate conditions

• Lack of competition

• Human-induced changes

• Abundant resources