Chapter 46 - Ecosystems

Chapter 46: Ecosystems A food chain is a sequence of organisms through which ENERGY passes. Each organism occupies a TROPHIC LEVEL 0 - Primary Producers 1 - Primary Consumers 2 - Secondary Consumers 3 - Tertiary Consumers (Apex)

As you move up the chain, energy is lost to heat As you move up the chain, energy is lost to heat. (2nd Law of Thermodynamics) An ecosystem can only support a small number of apex predators.

Pyramid of Biomass

Food Webs Can you identify: 1. Primary Producers 2. Primary Consumers 3. Secondary Consumers 4. Tertiary Consumers Herbivores Omnivores Carnivores

Biological Magnification A consequence of a the food web is that toxins will accumulate as they move up the chain. Apex predators can be harmed by increased levels of lead, mercury and other toxins.

Frogs are BIOINDICATORS The health of a frog population mirrors the health and pollution levels of the environment

46.3 Biogeochemical Cycles Water Cycle

Carbon Cycle

Greenhouse Effect

Nitrogen Cycle

Phosphorous Cycle