Biology Essentials: Homeostatic Disruptions

Mr. Andersen discusses the effects of homeostatic disruptions, focusing on environmental changes and their impact on cells, molecules, populations, and ecosystems. He highlights invasive species like earthworms in North America and the brown tree snake in Guam, explaining how they disrupt local ecosystems. The video also covers dehydration, detailing its types and effects on the human body, emphasizing the importance of water for maintaining homeostasis.

What is an example of an invasive species that is not commonly thought of as invasive?

• Zebra mussel

• Kudzu vine

• Earthworm

• Asian carp

Which type of dehydration involves the loss of water only?

• Hypotonic dehydration

• Isotonic dehydration

• Osmotic dehydration

• Hypertonic dehydration

What percentage of water loss in the human body can lead to muscle spasms and dim vision?

• 2%

• 5%

• 10%

• 15%

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of 5% water loss in the human body?

• Muscle spasms

• Nausea

• Increased heart rate

• Headaches

What is a common characteristic of invasive species?

• They are always plants.

• They are beneficial to ecosystems.

• They have natural predators in new environments.

• They often lack predators in new environments.

Which animal is known for causing ecological disruption on the island of Guam?

• Carp

• Brown tree snake

• Cane toad

• Common myna

What was one of the consequences of the brown tree snake's introduction to Guam?

• Improved ecosystem balance

• Decreased insect populations

• Power outages

• Increased bird populations

Why are islands particularly vulnerable to invasive species?

• They have diverse ecosystems.

• They have limited resources.

• They often lack natural predators for new species.

• They are isolated from human activity.

What method is being considered to control the brown tree snake population in Guam?

• Introducing a natural predator

• Using acetaminophen as poison

• Building physical barriers

• Relocating the snakes

What is the primary reason for the decline of bird species in Guam due to the brown tree snake?

• Climate change

• Habitat destruction

• Competition for food

• Predation on eggs and birds