The Incredible World of Ecosystems
In the grand tapestry of life, every organism has a role to play. This interaction of organisms with one another and with their environment forms an ecosystem. From the dense forests of the Amazon to the icy realms of Antarctica, every location has a unique ecosystem. Within each ecosystem, organisms depend on each other for survival, forming a complex web of life. The tall trees in a forest, for instance, provide shelter for birds, insects, and other animals. These animals, in turn, might feed on the tree s leaves or fruit, aiding in seed dispersal. However, any sudden changes in the ecosystem, be it due to human activities or natural disasters, can disrupt this delicate balance. For example, deforestation can lead to loss of habitat, threatening species that once thrived there. Biodiversity, or the variety of life within an ecosystem, is crucial. It helps ecosystems recover from disturbances, resist harmful invasions, and perform key functions such as nutrient cycling. In essence, every species counts in maintaining the health and resilience of an ecosystem. Therefore, preserving ecosystems and their biodiversity is not just about saving trees, birds, or insects; it s about safeguarding our planet s future.
Question 1
What is an ecosystem?
A type of animal
A certain plant species
A kind of weather condition
Interaction of organisms with one another and with their environment
A type of chemical reaction
Question 2
What does biodiversity refer to?
Different types of weather
Variety of life within an ecosystem
Various landforms in an area
Different types of rocks
Variety of human cultures
Question 3
What can be a result of sudden changes in the ecosystem?
Increased biodiversity
Improved health of species
Disruption of the delicate balance
Increased size of organisms
No impact
Question 4
Why is preserving biodiversity important?
It increases the size of organisms
It helps ecosystems recover from disturbances
It leads to a decrease in the number of species
It has no significant impact
It increases the chance of natural disasters
Question 5
Which of the following is a role that trees play in an ecosystem?
They make the soil less fertile
They decrease the amount of oxygen in the air
They provide shelter for birds, insects, and other animals
They prevent rainfall
They cause habitats to disappear
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