Problem
You are comparing the transfer of energy from primary producers to primary consumers in two different ecosystems, Area 1 and Area 2. In Area 1, primary consumers have a 60% consumption efficiency and a 20% assimilation efficiency. In Area 2, primary consumers have a 20% consumption efficiency and a 70% assimilation efficiency. For each area, explain these differences in consumption and assimilation efficiencies through questions A and B below.
A. In which area are primary producers more easily consumed? Explain.
B. In which area are primary producers more easily digested? Explain.
C. Describe several reasons for preserving biodiversity. From your list, which of these reasons do you feel is/are most important, and why?
D. There are many threats to Earth's biodiversity, and these threats are constantly changing in type and severity. Based on currently evolving threats, what fields of research and/or methods of maintaining biodiversity do you feel might become more important in the near future?