Energy in Ecosystems
What is the main source of energy for almost all ecosystems?
The Sun
What happens to trees in this biome during the fall?
They lose their leaves
What is the term for the permanently frozen soil in the tundra?
Permafrost
What is the main type of vegetation in temperate grasslands?
Grasses
What type of trees dominates the taiga?
Coniferous trees like spruce and fir
What process do producers use to convert solar energy into chemical energy?
Photosynthesis
Name one typical animal that lives in the temperate deciduous forest.
deer, fox, squirrel
Why are there very few trees in the tundra?
Soil is frozen, short growing season
What is one major human use of grasslands?
Agriculture/Farming
How do conifer trees adapt to cold conditions?
Needle-shaped leaves, waxy coating, conical shape
What is the term for the level at which an organism feeds in a food chain?
Trophic Level
What kind of climate does this biome have?
Four seasons, moderate rainfall
Name an animal well-adapted to the tundra.
Arctic fox, caribou, polar bear
Why are there few trees in this biome?
Low rainfall, fires, grazing pressure
Name one common animal in the taiga.
Moose, lynx, snowshoe hare
What is the difference between gross and net primary productivity?
Gross is total energy captured; net is what's left after respiration
Name one adaptation of plants to survive winter in this biome.
Leaf shedding, dormancy
What is a major environmental threat to the tundra biome?
Climate change/melting permafrost
Name a keystone species in the North American prairie.
Bison or Prairie Dog
What is the growing season like in the taiga?
Short, cool summer with long, cold winter
Why is energy transfer between trophic levels inefficient?
Only ~10% is passed on; the rest is lost as heat/metabolism
How does nutrient cycling in this biome compare to the tropical rainforest?
Slower due to seasonal changes and lower biodiversity
How does the tundra's nutrient availability affect plant growth?
Low nutrients limit plant diversity and size
What role do fires play in the health of grassland ecosystems?
Prevent tree overgrowth, recycle nutrients
How does the acidic soil of the taiga affect decomposition rates?
Slows them down, causing buildup of organic material