Nurse Logs
What is a nurse log?
A nurse log is a fallen tree that provides habitat and nutrients for new plants and animals.
What is a forest?
A forest is a large area covered chiefly with trees and undergrowth.
What is a habitat?
A habitat is the natural environment where an organism lives.
What is ecology?
Ecology is the study of interactions between living organisms and their environment.
What is decomposition?
Decomposition is the process by which dead organic matter is broken down into simpler substances.
Why are nurse logs important?
Nurse logs help promote biodiversity by providing a habitat for various species and aiding in plant growth.
What are the layers of a forest?
The layers include the forest floor, understory, canopy, and emergent layer.
Name a mammal that lives in forests.
Deer or bears are examples of mammals that live in forests.
Define biodiversity.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
How do logs provide nutrients to the soil?
As logs decompose, they release nutrients back into the soil, enriching it for new plants.
How do nurse logs help ecosystems?
They facilitate decomposition, enrich the soil, and support new plant growth, contributing to the forest ecosystem.
Name a type of tree found in a temperate forest.
Oak or maple trees are commonly found in temperate forests.
What do birds typically eat in forests?
Birds typically eat seeds, fruits, and insects in forests.
Why is biodiversity important?
Biodiversity is important for ecosystem stability, resilience, and providing resources for humans.
What is the role of fungi in decomposition?
Fungi break down complex organic materials, aiding in the decomposition process.
Name one animal that benefits from nurse logs.
Squirrels or various insects may benefit as they find food and shelter in and around nurse logs.
How does a forest help the environment?
Forests clean the air, provide oxygen, and store carbon dioxide.
How do animals adapt to forest life?
Animals adapt by developing camouflage, climbing abilities, or specialized diets.
How do plants and animals interact?
Plants provide food and shelter for animals, while animals help with pollination and seed dispersal.
Name a plant that grows on decaying logs.
Moss or certain fungi can grow on decaying logs.
Explain how nurse logs are formed.
Nurse logs form when trees fall and begin to decay, providing a rich environment for seedlings to grow.
Describe how forests can be damaged.
Forests can be damaged by logging, wildfires, pests, and climate change.
Describe a food chain in a forest.
A simple food chain could be: sun → plants → herbivores (like deer) → carnivores (like foxes).
What happens if a species goes extinct?
Extinction can disrupt ecosystems and lead to the decline of other species that depend on it.
How do logs help retain moisture in the ecosystem?
Logs absorb rainwater and slow down evaporation, helping to maintain moisture in the soil.