Sustaining Ecosystems Flashcards
What’s the nutrient cycle in the rainforest
Hot and damp, decomposed plant material
Nutrients absorbed by plant root, high demand, none in soil
Lack of vegetation causes soil to become infertile
What’s the climate in the rainforest
22-32°
Conventional rainfall, roots uptake water, evaporates, condenses and precipitates
What does an ecosystem need
Interdependence, needing each other to survive
What’s the tropical rainforest like
Location- equator
Temp- hot
Rainfall- very high
Flora/fauna- Tall trees and variety of animals
What are tropical grasslands like
Location- 5/30° north and south of equator
Temp- warm
Rainfall- wet and dry seasons
Flora/fauna- grassland, herbivores and carnivores
What are hot desserts like
Location- tropics of cancer/Capricorn
Temp- hot at day cold at night
Rainfall- very low
Flora/fauna- small nocturnal animals
What are temperate forests like
Location- 40-60° north of equator
Temp- warm summer mild winter
Rainfall- variable
Flora/fauna- trees or adapted animals to cold
What are tundras like
Location- 65° north and south of equator
Temp- cold
Rainfall- low
Flora/fauna- small plants
What are coral reefs like
Location- 30° north and south of equator
Temp- warm water
Rainfall- varied
Flora/fauna- algae and fish
Human effects on rainforest
Logging
Timber for furniture or paper
Indigenous people displaced
Human effects on rainforest
Agriculture
Slash and burn, carbon emissions
Land exposed, soil erosion, infertile soil
Human effects on rainforest
Tourism
Hotels built in vulnerable areas
Government against indigenous tribes
Wildlife catch human diseases
How is water a benefit from the rainforest
Prevents droughts/floods by controlling water flow- service
Drinking- goods
How does the rainforest provide energy
Dams provide 2/3 of brazils energy- service
How does the rainforest benefit health
Sources 25% of modern medicines- goods
