Ecosystem Services and Functions

The video lesson introduces seventh graders to the concept of ecosystem services, covering cultural, provisional, regulatory, and supporting services. It begins with a review of invasive species and the definition of ecology. The lesson explains how ecosystems provide cultural benefits like relaxation and historical insights, provisional resources like food and water, regulatory benefits through natural processes, and supporting services through resource recycling. The lesson concludes with a quiz to reinforce learning.

What term describes an organism that enters a new area without natural predators?

• Extinct species

• Endangered species

• Keystone species

• Invasive species

What does the suffix 'ology' in 'ecology' signify?

• The destruction of

• The creation of

• The preservation of

• The study of

Which of the following is an example of cultural services provided by ecosystems?

• Nutrient cycling

• Timber production

• Water filtration

• Bird watching

Why did ancient civilizations often settle near rivers?

• For aesthetic purposes

• To avoid predators

• To move supplies easily

• For recreational activities

Which of the following is NOT a provisional service?

• Edible plants

• Drinking water

• Coal and fossil fuels

• Cultural heritage

What is the primary role of regulatory services in ecosystems?

• To provide raw materials

• To offer recreational spaces

• To recycle nutrients

• To control natural processes

How do oysters contribute to regulatory services?

• By offering recreational activities

• By cleaning water

• By recycling nutrients

• By providing food

What is a key function of supporting services in ecosystems?

• Controlling natural processes

• Providing cultural experiences

• Offering raw materials

• Recycling nutrients

Which cycle is NOT part of supporting services?

• Energy cycle

• Carbon cycle

• Nitrogen cycle

• Water cycle

How do plants and animals maintain a balance in the ecosystem?

• By migrating to new areas

• By competing for resources

• By converting carbon dioxide to oxygen

• By consuming each other