ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

INDIVIDUAL PROJECT 1

In this assignment, you will investigate the biotic and abiotic structure and function of an ecosystem. You will also investigate how ecosystems recover from disturbance naturally and through human restoration.

Choose 1 of the following ecosystems:

• Tropical rainforest
• Grassland
• Coral reef
• Estuary
• Desert

You will write an APA-style research paper about your choice of ecosystem, including the following elements:

• Describe where this type of ecosystem might be located. Name 1 specific example.
• Describe the structure of the ecosystem.
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  • List at least 3 specific examples of both abiotic components and biotic       components for the ecosystem type selected.
•         Describe the function of the ecosystem
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  • In your own words, explain or define biogeochemical cycle.
  • Describe the steps in the carbon cycle as an example of one biogeochemical cycle.
•         Describe disturbance and recovery
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  • Describe 1 natural and 1 human-caused disturbance to the ecosystem that you have chosen.
  • Describe the damage to the ecosystem for each example, including how the abiotic and biotic characteristics of the ecosystem changed.
• Provide 2 examples of natural resources provided by the ecosystem that you have      selected.

• How       can these be sustained into the future?
• How       can humans act as good stewards to assist ecosystem recovery? Provide 1       example specific to the ecosystem that you have chosen.