1. Ecosystems
What is an ecosystem?
An ecosystem is a place where
animals, plants, and non-living
materials exist together.
A Joe Fasen Enhanced Power Point Presentation
2. Ecosystems
If you could choose an
ecosystem in which to live which
one would you choose? Why?
Let’s take a look at some
ecosystems to help you
decide….
22. Symbiosis
• Specific interaction between two species
over a long period of time “living together”
Both species
benefit
One species benefits,
the other is neither
helped nor harmed.
One species benefits,
the other is harmed
23. Succession
• The gradual change of one community to
another over time.
• Succession happens in all communities.
24. • Sometimes forests go through long periods
of time without rain. A fire could start during
one of these dry spells. What would
happen then? (succession)
25. • In the forest fire, many trees and animals
will die.
– Many animals will move away from the forest
to a new location.
26. • After the forest fire, the community will
begin to rebuild:
– Plants begin to grow
– Animals come back to feed on the new plants.
27. • Eventually, new trees will grow.
– Small trees will grow at first, but after many
years, larger trees such as spruce and fir may
grow.
28. • So, here is our example of succession:
Forest fire
occurs
Small trees
begin to grow
Trees & animals die
or relocate
Plants begin to grow;
animals return to feed
on new plant growth
Large trees
grow;
completing the
forest
