This is the beginning of your study of the (6) six land ecosystems: the
Rainforest, Tundra, Grasslands, Desert, Deciduous, and Coniferous
forests of the world. An Ecosystem is a community of organisms
and its interaction with its environment. Ecosystems are classified according to
their climate conditions, the most common plant life, and the many characteristics
found in its organisms to adapt to their environment.
Every ecosystem has
its own unique food chain. Organisms can be categorized by the function
they serve in an ecosystem. It is composed of producers, consumers, and
decomposers. This "Circle of Life" is a cycle of energy that is
transferred from plant to animal, animal to plant, and then recycled back into
the soil for nutrients.
In every ecosystem, competition exists. It
is the struggle among organisms for food, water, space,
etc. Competition is another factor involved in maintaining this balance of
nature.
When organisms changes, with the seasonal weather conditions, the plant or
animal's very existence is dependent upon the traits or characteristics it has
developed to survive. This ability for plants and animals to change is called
adaptation.
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As a team of
scientists, you are about to embark on a journey of the ecosystems of the
world. You will first need to read about each of the roles below, then
chose your position on your team.
© 2004 Bridget Fish
