2) An ecosystem requires a continuous flow of matter and energy, so it continue to exist. The image to the right
represents a tropical rainforest ecosystem. Located in
tropical regions, rainforests possess a greater diversity of
plant and animal life than any other type of ecosystem. As
their name implies, precipitation is significant, leading to
dense, verdant vegetation. Trees grow very tall as they
compete for sunlight, and animals live in their canopy.
a) What are biotic and abiotic factors that shape this ecosystem?
b) What is the niche of the jaguar illustrated above? Explain what a niche is.
c) Does any other species in the picture have the same niche as the jaguar? Explain. d) Ecosystems are constantly changing in response to natural and human disturbances. Would ecological succession occur in this ecosystem if all the existing animals died out? If so, which kind? e) Unlike the one-way flow of energy, matter is recycled within and between ecosystems. Different nutrients have different ways to cycle through an ecosystem. Choose one of the 4 main nutrients and explain how it cycles through the biosphere.