A Desert Ecosystem

Question 1

Different ecosystems can be seen to have both similarities and differences in structure and function. Choose ONE of the following pairs of ecosystems to compare and contrast. ( 10 points)

a) A desert ecosystem and the ecosystem.
b) A lentic system and the ecosystem.
c) A tundra system and the ecosystem.
d) A grassland system and the ecosystem.

Question 2

1. For this assignment, describe the ecosystem that contains your chosen community. What are the major processes that determine how this ecosystem functions? (5 marks)
2. Climate, primary productivity and decomposition rates all interact in ecosystems. Explain how each one of these factors influences the other two (12 marks)
3. Explain the impacts that human activities have on one gaseous and one sedimentary biogeochemical cycle. Be specific about both the activities and the impacts. (8 marks)
4. One common approach to conservation involves trying to “save” a particular endangered species. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this kind of approach, as opposed to the approach of conserving ecosystems and landscapes. (10 marks)