Lab 3 – Biodiversity
Demonstration 1: Interdependence of Species
Table 1: Interdependence of Species Results
Round Species Missing (Bead Color and Name)
1 Yellow – Bees
2 Blue - Humans
3 Red – Flowers
4 White - Lichen

POST LAB QUESTIONS

1. Explain how the ecosystem was affected by the missing species for each round of the demonstration.

a. Round 1 = without bees, trees and plants could not be pollinated; humans would no longer have honey or enjoy the fruit the sweet taste of fruit due to lack of pollination.
b. Round 2 = without humans, perhaps there would be a reverse effect. The ecosystem would perhaps be in better shape if humans were not in the equation since they are the ones who have the biggest impact.
c. Round 3 = without flowers, bees would go without part of their food source
d. Round 4 = without lichens, plants and trees would suffer because there would not be the necessary nutrients present in the soil around them.

2. Provide one action we as humans engage in that leads to the extinction of each of these components.

Action affecting Lichens = Lichens depends on air and water for nutrients which is affected by things such as air travel and exhaust fumes.
Action affecting Trees = People cutting down trees is one main way that leads to extinction.
Action affecting Flowers = People are clearing off land in order to plant crops and trees
Action affecting Bees = There is intensive farming being done and as a result eliminate food that bees pollinate from.

3. Provide three specific actions that humans can take to minimize our impact on the ecosystem and ensure the survival of lichens, trees, flowers, and bees.

Action 1 = People can do less that contribute to the pollution of air, water and soil and by protecting from pollutants and contaminates.
Action 2 = Avoid using pesticides if at all possible.
Action 3 = Plant