Diversity

What is Diversity? Diversity is the measure of the number of different types of organisms in an area. Coral Reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems on earth!

Benefits of Diversity Generally the more diverse an ecosystem is the more readily it can withstand change. Ex. The removal on one species will not have an extreme impact in a diverse ecosystem.

Ecosystems with little diversity are fragile. The disappearance, or addition, of one organism from this type of ecosystem could cause rapid dramatic change.

Ecosystems http://www.brainpop.com/science/ecologyandbehavior/ecosystems/preview.weml

Adapted for Survival Plants and animals have adapted to life under specific conditions allowing most to tolerate minor environmental changes.

Create Your Own Organism Create a brand-new plant or animal that has never been seen before. It needs to have at least one adaptation that helps it to survive. Part 1: Drawing Draw a picture of your new organism on a blank piece of paper. Be sure to include the visible adaptation for the organisms survival. Colour the Picture. Part 2: Written Explanation Write a paragraph (at least ½ page) fully explaining your organisms adaptations and how they affect your organisms survival. Things to think about: Where does your plant/animal live? (hot, cold, wet, dry, etc) Who are the predators of your plant/animal (who are its’ enemies?) Are there certain parts of your plant/animal’s body that serves a purpose specifically for that plant or animal? Adaptations can include different body shapes, special organs, or special behaviors.