Based on your readings, which of these is the best definition for what an ecosystem service is?

Part 2. Data Interpretation Questions (3 points each – 21 points)

In 1992, mangrove forests along the southern Florida coast and the Florida Keys were severely damaged by Hurricane Andrew. Up to 94% mortality was recorded in some areas, with only the shortest individuals surviving. Scientists have monitored the region and by 2001, the forest canopy had closed and the main species were rapidly gaining biomass. This is an example of

Deforestation in areas like Madagascar can significantly affect the water cycle. Why is this?

Based on the current trends shown in the population pyramids, which region is more likely to experience population stabilization or decline in the future, and why?

Analyze this dataset on forest recovery after fire: Time Post-Fire (years) Species Richness Productivity 1 5 Low 5 15 Moderate 10 25 High Which hypothesis about the relationship between ecosystem function and species richness does this best support?

Part 3 – Figure Fill-In/Drop-Down Matching Questions (8 points each, 16 points)

You are conducting a long-term study of ecosystem functioning in a freshwater lake. You and your field assistants gather data for many biotic and abiotic factors, including species diversity, water and benthic quality, and turbidity. Over the ten years of your study, you find that the abundance of water lilies is correlated with several other factors. When water toxicity and turbidity are high and water pH is abnormally low, water lilies quickly become scarce, followed by periods where fish, amphibians, and water birds are also scarce or absent. In years water nutrient levels are very high, water lilies quickly become abundant, followed by years where wading birds are more numerous. From these data, you conclude that water lilies are

To support species native to Australia, Arid Recovery has created a relatively cat-free preserve by fencing and eliminating cats from a sanctuary.  Here is a photo of the set up and an adorable native Australian stick-nest rat from Arid Recovery’s website. Based on the success of the project, they plan to expand their program to protect more land from cats.  Imagine you are an ecologist consulting with them on this expansion.  List 3 suggestions you would make to the team as they consider the size, shape and/or location of additional protected land.  Back up each suggestion by briefly explaining the ecological principle it is based on.   1.  Suggestion 1 with supporting ecology principle. 2.  Suggestion 2 with supporting ecology principle. 3.  Suggestion 3 with supporting ecology principle.

The amount of land needed to produce all the resources someone uses and to absorb all the CO2 they release through their choices is called their: