...Ecosystem Structure, Format, and Change Trevor Hyland sci/256 July 20, 2015 University Of Phoenix Ecosystem Structure, Format, and Change Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine late in North American, the 16th deepest lake in the world and is also one of the largest lake in America it is located in Sierra Nevada and is a freshwater lake over 1,600 feet deep which makes it the second deepest lake in the united states. The lake is at the heart of a comprehensive ecosystem and contains rich aquatic life and has a range of native species for example, the lake is home to residence, suckers and chub. “The ecosystem of the Lake Tahoe Basin has been dramatically altered since European settlers began to settle around the lake in the middle of the last century. Human disturbances, including introduced species, fire suppression, past overgrazing and logging, urbanization, roads, intensive recreational use, and air pollution, have affected not only the clarity of the lake, but the forest's ability to maintain the function, diversity, and resiliency of its components” (Tahoecam.com). At the end of the 19th century, along with other issues such as drought, thinning and excessive rainfall, Lake Tahoe now has overcrowded and aged trees, yet with a 25% to 30% tree mortality which makes the danger of fires very severe (Tahoecam.com). When it comes to the quality of the water in the lake, human activities over the last 130 years have done the most damage yet the human activities in the lake...
Words: 764 - Pages: 4
...Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change Hector Canseco SCI/256 04/30/2015 Carolyn Miller Freshwater Ecosystem is a relatively small in area about 1.8% of the earth’s surface. It consists of ponds and lakes which range in size from just a few square meters to thousands of square miles. All throughout the earth several are remnants from glaciers thousands of years ago. Many ponds are seasonal, lasting just a couple of months while lakes may exist for hundreds of years or more. Ponds and lakes may have limited species since they are often isolated from one another and from other water sources like rivers and oceans. Lakes and ponds are divided into three different zones, which are usually determined by depth and distance from the shoreline. Streams and rivers are also part of the fresh water ecosystem. These are bodies of flowing water moving in one direction. Streams and rivers can be found everywhere, they get their starts at headwaters, which may be springs, snowmelt or even lakes, and then travel all the way to their mouths, usually another water channel or the ocean. The type of a river or stream changes during the journey from the source to the mouth. The temperature is cooler at the source than it is at the mouth. The water is also clearer, has higher oxygen levels, and freshwater fish such as trout and bass can be found there. Towards the middle part of the stream or river, the width increases as does species, numerous aquatic green plants and algae can be found...
Words: 953 - Pages: 4
...Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change paper Zachery Thursday, February 12, 2015 SCI 256 Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change paper Prior to restoration the area now known as the Chamna Natural Preserve was used to facilitate illegal dumping and racing. It was not until 1997 that cleanup of this shrub-steppe ecosystem began. Area such as this have begun to be maintained by associations with the intentions of restoring or maintaining these natural reserves. We will discuss the major structural and functional dynamics for the Chamna Natural Preserve. Along with how humans may have affected the cycling of matter in the ecosystem, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, or carbon. How knowledge can or has helped to develop plans for restoration or management. Then finally about the implications of species interactions in this specific ecosystem. Structures and Functions of the Chamna Natural Preserve The Functional dynamics of this shrub-steppe ecosystem are undergoing change, and people are involved. According to Smith (2001), “Climate change will alter the nitrogen cycling in the fragile soil of semi-arid desert regions.” Since nitrogen loss is more prevalent in warmer, drier areas then cooler, wetter areas. The microbial processes related to the cycling of nitrogen are more related to the changes is climate, then by plant competition for nitrogen. Meaning that the stability of this shrub-steppe ecosystem is highly dependent on the ecosystems ability to adjust to changing...
Words: 719 - Pages: 3
...Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change Doris Winters SCI/256 September 7, 2015 University of Phoenix Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change Of all the wonders we have in these United States, I have chosen The Great Lakes as my topic to discuss the changes these wonderful bodies of water are currently experiencing. I have narrowed my view to Lake Michigan, as it is the largest of the lakes. From the EPA: On November 15, 1990, in response to mounting evidence that air pollution contributes to water pollution, Congress amended the Clean Air Act and included provisions that established research and reporting requirements related to the deposition of hazardous air pollutants to the "Great Waters." The water bodies designated by these provisions are the Great Lakes, Lake Champlain, Chesapeake Bay, and certain other coastal waters (identified by their designation as sites in the National Estuarine Research Reserve System or the National Estuary Program). (EPA, 2015) Lake Michigan currently functions with the dynamic, being it has exceptional fishing, irrigation and provides clean drinking water to the communities surrouding the lake. Its structural dynamic as an ecosystem currently offers for research and developmet all human threats. An example is the introduction of invasive species, such as zebra mussels and those HABs (Harmful Algal Blooms), that expand because of the nutrients in certain fertalizers. The scientific community is also doing research yearly,...
Words: 756 - Pages: 4
...Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change SCI/256 October 30, 2013 Edward Chargualaf Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change In San Diego, California there is a beach area known as “The Jewel” or La Jolla. The children’s pool, La Jolla shores, and La Jolla cove make up this mile long crescent of a prime sandy beach. The children’s pool is a small cove protected by a concrete wall originally built to make a safe swimming area for children. Now the area has turned into a place for seals and sea lions to beach themselves and their babies. La Jolla shores is a place for beachgoers of all interests. You will find this as a busy swimming and surfing area. During the day it is used as a launching pad for scuba diving and kayaking. At night it’s alive with the glowing of beach fires and socializing of people. Last is La Jolla cove, where cliffs have formed a small deep water bay. Here you can enjoy activities like kayaking through caves and snorkeling seeing the marine life, like Garibaldi fish. Many types of marine life can be found in the La Jolla shores water. On the floors of this ecosystem you can find crustaceans, mollusks, and invertebrates. While snorkeling you can find animals such as fish, rays, and sharks. Green sea turtles are one reptile that calls La Jolla shores home. The most common land animals are birds. Between La Jolla Shores and La Jolla cove is the San Diego-La Jolla underwater park, a marine life preservation and aquatic recreation zone with...
Words: 953 - Pages: 4
...Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change: Options Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change: Options The Colorado Phantom Canyon Preserve is a beautiful preserve located in North-Central Colorado in the Laramie foothills about 30 miles Northwest of Fort Collins. The Phantom Canyon Preserve is among the greatest Front Range Landscapes totaling about 1,700 acres including six miles of the North Fork of the Cache La Poudre River. The Phantom Canyon Preserve is one of the last remaining canyons without a road among the Colorado’s Front Range. This preserve is home to hundreds of species of wildlife including species of special concern and hundreds of plant species. The Nature Conservancy protects the Phantom Canyon Preserve since 1987. The main reason this preserve is protected is the ecosystem supports the Larimer Aletes which is a rare member of the parsley family. This particular plant is hard to find and can only be found in Larimer and Boulder counties with its highest concentration in the Phantom Canyon Preserve. Some other native plant species that can be found in this ecosystem are Bells Twin Pod, Needle-and-Thread Grass, and One-sided Penstemon. The Phantom Canyon Preserve serves as a habitat for species of special concern such as the Black Bear, Mountain Lion, and the Bobcat. This preserve is also home to Bald Eagles in the winter, Golden Eagles, Prairie Falcons, and Red Tail Hawks who make the high canyon walls their home. Only six elements out of ninety-two produced...
Words: 743 - Pages: 3
...Ecosystems and Economics Paper BIO/280 Ecosystems and Economics Paper Our society has come to a point in time where we are more concerned about having the latest thing. While humans choose to consume natural resources our ecosystems are diminishing. In this paper I will discuss degradation, loss, effecst humans have on our planet, and the cost and benefits of human enterprise in terms of ecosystems. Degradation and Loss In past years, people have reshaped ecosystems, faster and more ample than in any time in history. While meeting fast growing request on food, fresh water, timber, and fuel. Resulting in a permanent loss in diversity of life on this planet. “These alteration we have made to our ecosystem have contributed to considerable net gain in human well-being and economic development, these gains have been achieved at growing cost in the form of the degradation of many ecosystem services” (Leemans, 2003). Effects of human activity on ecosystems Humans and technologies are disturbing the trophic structure, energy flow and the chemical balance of ecosystems worldwide. Humans move nutrients from one place to another in an ecosystem. Example; Soil from a farm can be transported into streams, and lakes, diminishing nutrients in an area causing excess to develop in another area, and disturbing chemical cycles in both areas. Introduction of toxic chemicals by humans into ecosystems have caused these chemicals to be consumed and metabolized by organisms. These chemicals...
Words: 568 - Pages: 3
...Jaguars, spider monkeys, and sloths live in the Amazon forest. Its rainy or dry seasons can make home for many animals. And can either be extreme wet season or hot. There are many ecosystems in the Amazon rain forest, for example one of the major ecosystems in the Amazon Rain forest is the Amazon River. It runs four thousand miles down the Amazon, and is one hundred and twenty miles wide. The Amazon River is home to anacondas and many other life forms species. However the Amazon River is only the second largest river in the world. The Amazon is home to many indigenous tribes and animals. The climate change in the weather is of concern to people, who take a closer look into the fact that, the Amazon River and the forest itself needs to be preserved. It’s of concern to others, because the weather is unpredictable, which does not give its people enough time or resources to prepare for upcoming floods or extreme droughts. That ruins the plants and land. Another concern is the international involvement. Brazil needs assistance, and cannot control the illegal activities that happen in the Amazon Forest. For example, gang activities and drug trafficking. Environmental can pose great change in the human health in a number of ways. Human interference in the Amazon forest has affected the ecosystem- fresh water, food, timber, fiber and fuel,...
Words: 1226 - Pages: 5
...Lake Erie Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change Denise McSalters SCI 256 November 13. 2013 University of Phoenix Lake Erie Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change Carved out by glaciers during the last ice age the Great Lakes contain 20% of the earth’s fresh water. The lakes provide the majority of the basin’s human population with drinking water, commerce and recreation. Lake Erie is the smallest of the Great Lakes, relatively shallow, and is exposed to prevailing winds. Lake Erie ecosystem supports a diverse group of aquatic and land-dwelling organisms who use the ecosystem during important life stages. The lake support high production of both residential and migratory species and is a center for regional biodiversity. (US Department of the Interior; US Geological Survey, 2013) Because Lake Erie is exposed to prevailing winds, it is particularly susceptible to intense wave actions and wind-generated changes in the lake level. The “seiches” or changes in the lake tides interchangeably flood and drain the coastal wetlands systems. The costal wetland systems encompass southeastern Michigan, northwest Ohio and southern Ontario. The Watershed is almost completely urban or agricultural. The major urban cities are Toledo, Detroit, Cleveland, and Buffalo. (US Environmental Protection Agency, 2013) The most obvious forcer of Lake Erie ecosystem change was due to the input of excessive amounts of phosphorus from mainly agriculture and water treatment plants. At...
Words: 841 - Pages: 4
...Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change Paper (Great Lakes) Shantera Bell October 26, 2015 SCI/256 UOP The Great Lakes region is rich with life and full of native species well adapted to survival. However, since the early 1800s, many non-native plants, animals and microscopic organisms have been introduced into the Great Lakes, either accidentally or intentionally. Great Lakes native species are diverse and interesting and contribute to a healthy ecosystem. There are many unique and interesting birds, fish and plants found in Michigan and throughout the region that are integral to the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem. More than 140 species of birds depend on Michigan’s coastal habitat during their life cycle. Coastal wetlands, beaches, sand dunes and remote islands provide food and shelter for both resident and migratory species. Waterfowl such as Canvasback and Scaup are among the many species that use coastal wetlands as stopover sites to rest and refuel. Shorebirds including the endangered piping plover fly thousands of miles to nest on undisturbed beaches and remote Great Lakes islands. Because of their use of the coastal lands, there are thousands of great locations to see both resident and migratory bird species throughout Michigan and the Great Lakes region. State parks, national parks, wildlife refuges and sanctuaries throughout the state all provide good bird-watching opportunities. Some sites along Michigan’s Great Lakes shoreline are even...
Words: 1411 - Pages: 6
...University of Phoenix Material Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change Select and complete one of the following assignments: Option 1: Ecosystem Components Paper Option 2: Ecosystem Components Video and Summary Option 1: Ecosystem Components Paper Select a representative natural ecosystem in your area or one that you are interested in—such as a lake, preserve, or park—that is managed for native species. • Write a 700- to 1,050-word paper explaining the following: o The major structural and functional dynamics (processes) of that ecosystem including change over time o How humans may have affected biogeochemical cycles in that ecosystem, including impacts to the nitrogen, phosphorus, or carbon cycle o How knowledge about that ecosystem’s structure and function can help or has helped to develop plans for its management and restoration o The implication of species interactions in ecosystem management and restoration • Include two outside references. • Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. Option 2: Ecosystem Components Video and Summary Select a representative natural ecosystem in your area or one that you are interested in—such as a lake, preserve, or park—that is managed for native species. • Shoot a 7- to 10-minute video chronicling the following: o The major structural and functional dynamics (processes) of that ecosystem including change over time o How humans may...
Words: 309 - Pages: 2
...Energy Flow in Ecosystem and Its Importance in Crop Production By gachura10@gmail.com Course Tutor Institution, City Date Energy Flow in Ecosystem and Its Importance in Crop Production Introduction An ecosystem is made up of of the organic community that take place in some area, and the bodily and biochemical influences that make up its lifeless or abiotic environs (Fraham, 1984: 143). There are several instances of ecosystems: a fish pond, a plantation, a river mouth, a savannah. The limits are not static in any impartial way, even though occasionally they look clear, as with the water's edge of a small fish pond. Typically the margins of an ecological unit are selected for real-world aims having to do with the objectives of the specific study. According to Perry (2008), study of ecological unit mostly comprises of the study of sure procedures that relates the living, or biotic, constituents to the inorganic, and abiotic constituents. Energy changes and biogeosubstance transformation are the key procedures that include the area of environment conservation. Ecology normally is well-defined as the connections of creatures with one another and with the environs in which they are living. Ecology can be studied at the level of the separate organism, the inhabitants, the community, and the environment. studies of ecology at individuals are concerned generally about composition, reproduction, growth or performance, while studies of ecology at inhabitants...
Words: 1876 - Pages: 8
...Normally, the Earth’s carbon cycle maintains a natural balance of carbon in the atmosphere, land, and ocean through the “breathing of the planet”. However, since the beginning of the industrial era, emissions of carbon dioxide have climbed, and now are exceeding the capacity of the carbon cycle to maintain equilibrium between the atmosphere and ocean. Excess carbon dioxide traps more heat in the atmosphere, which changes the Earth’s climate. Not all of the excess carbon dioxide stays in the atmosphere. Scientists estimate that one-third of all the carbon dioxide produced by human activities has been absorbed by the ocean. The ocean’s removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere has undoubtedly helped curb the extent of climate change—but this benefit has come at a cost. The absorption of carbon dioxide is fundamentally changing the chemistry of the ocean by triggering reactions that make seawater more acidic, a phenomenon called ocean acidification. In fact, the ocean has become nearly 30 percent more acidic than it was at the beginning of the industrial era—a change larger and more rapid than seen in the fossil record going back at least 800,000 years. THE CHEMISTRY OF OCEAN ACIDIFICAT ION Atmospheric...
Words: 1232 - Pages: 5
...and herbivores. Omnivores will also consume carnivores. Carnivores consume omnivores and other carnivores as their primary food sources. The connections of each species within this cycle are the networks that scientists call the food chain, and connected food chains a food network or food web. Another important connection in this cycle is the process of energy passing from one organism to the next. This process is the energy flow, and the food web illustrates the energy flow among the organisms in the food chain for the Mojave Desert ecosystem. The Pathways of Energy Flow Scientists identify food chains and food webs as the pathways that energy and matter pass from each link in the chain beginning with the producers and distributing out to the consumers. As Simon, Reece, and Dickey (2010) note, “the feeding relationships among the various species in a community are referred to as its trophic structure. A community’s trophic structure determines the passage of energy and nutrients from plants and other photosynthetic organisms to herbivores and then to predators” (p. 432). The trophic level of...
Words: 1328 - Pages: 6
...Ecosystems Theory Chris Smith Western Kentucky University SWRK 331 –610: Human Behavior in the Social Environment II Western Kentucky University – Owensboro March 19, 2013 Ecosystems Theory Defined The ecosystems theory as utilized in social work is an adaptation in and of itself. The ecosystems theory is a combination of ecology and general systems theory. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, ecology is “The science of the relationship between organisms and their environments [ (Bantam Dell, 2007, p. 272) ]. An ecological systems approach only tells us organisms will adapt to environmental changes and does not tell us specifically what steps the organism takes in order to adapt to change, this is where general systems theory, the second contributor to ecosystems theory, comes to play a part [ (Greif, 1986) ]. General systems theory shows how an organism’s interaction with another cannot only instigate change within itself but can also instigate change in others as well. According to Wakefield (1996), Systems are sets of interacting elements; systems can be open or closed to interaction with the outside world; systems are linked hierarchically; systems can possess states of homeostasis and equilibrium or can be in disequilibrium; systems are regulated through positive and negative feedback; and, again, causal influences are circular, in that changes in one system have consequences for other linked systems that, in turn, through feedback, have consequences...
Words: 2134 - Pages: 9
