Ecosystem Dynamics and Species Interactions

Lauren from the Calgary Zoo discusses the role of wolves in ecosystems, focusing on the historical impact of their absence and reintroduction in Yellowstone National Park. The removal of wolves led to an imbalance, causing overpopulation of prey and degradation of the environment. Reintroducing wolves restored balance, demonstrating the importance of apex predators. The video also highlights conservation efforts in Canada, emphasizing the role of people in maintaining ecosystem health.

What are the three essential components of an ecosystem mentioned in the video?

• Animals, plants, and humans

• Sunlight, water, and nutrients

• Water, air, and soil

• Plants, prey, and predators

What was the main reason for the absence of wolves in Yellowstone National Park in the 1920s?

• Natural disasters

• Human hunting

• Disease outbreak

• Lack of food

What happened to the elk and deer populations when wolves were absent from Yellowstone?

• They migrated to other areas

• Their numbers decreased

• Their numbers remained stable

• Their numbers increased

What significant change occurred in Yellowstone after wolves were reintroduced in 1995?

• The prey species went extinct

• The ecosystem began to restore balance

• The riverbanks eroded further

• The plant life diminished

Which trees started to grow again in Yellowstone after the reintroduction of wolves?

• Pine and oak

• Willow and aspen

• Maple and birch

• Cedar and spruce

What role do beavers play in the ecosystem after the reintroduction of wolves?

• They reduce water flow

• They increase plant growth

• They hunt prey species

• They build dams and create habitats

What is a trophic cascade?

• A type of animal migration

• A method of planting trees

• A change in the top level of the food chain affecting all levels below

• A type of waterfall

What was the most successful reintroduction program mentioned in the video?

• Reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone

• Reintroduction of swift fox in Canada

• Reintroduction of bears in Alaska

• Reintroduction of deer in Europe

Why is reintroducing carnivores important for ecosystems?

• They help maintain balance by controlling prey populations

• They increase plant diversity

• They reduce water pollution

• They provide food for herbivores

What is the role of people in ecosystem conservation according to the video?

• To observe and document changes

• To be part of the ecosystem and support conservation efforts

• To plant trees and restore habitats

• To hunt and control animal populations