UK, Epping Forest. Deciduous trees drop leaves annually in autumn to conserve energy in winter. Decomposers and detritivores break down leaves to soil
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How a change in an ecosystem affects everything
Make 2 direct links and 2 indirect links
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Changes in large ecosystem
160 wolves to Yellowstone. Elk population halves in 8 years (20000 to 10000). Reduction in grazing pressure of young aspen, willow and cottonwood. Reduction in soil erosion of river banks. 8 more beaver colonies than before.
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Characteristics of rainforest
Warm and wet climate. Annual average temp 26. Av rainfall is 2,500mm exceeding. Rich vegetation with tree to 30-45m. Thin and poor soil, rapid nutrient cycle.
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Plant adaptations in rainforest
Waxy leaves reduce rates of transpiration. Drip tips allow water to run off quickly. Flexible stems allow plant to follow sun. Shallow roots allow absorbting nutrients directly from decomposing leaf litter. Parasitic plants attach to trees for energy
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Animal adaptations in rainforest
Parrots and Toucans have hard beaks to crack open nuts. Leaf tailed gecko is camoflaged to escape predators. Arrow frogs bright colours show poison. Monkeys have strong long limbs
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Changing rates of deforestation?
104% + in Indonesia. 94% + in Peru. 21%- in Senegal and Brazil. Global rate of deforestation= 1 hectare per second
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Case Study, causes of deforestation
In Brazil= cattle grazing clears 80% of rainforest. Banana, pineapple, coffee plantations clear. Trans Amazonian Highway makes more accessible for exploiters. Mineral extraction means 50,000 hectares clear-felled.
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Value of Rainforest
Fruits, nuts, meats, fish for locals to eat. Medicine like Vincristine derived from Periwinkle is anti-cancer. Timber, HEP. Air purification (carbon sinks). Biodiversity
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