In this assignment, you will investigate the biotic and abiotic structure and function of an ecosystem.
Choose one of the following ecosystems:
- Tropical rainforest
- Grassland
- Coral Reef
- Estuary
- Desert
You will write a two to three page APA-style research paper about your choice of ecosystem including:
Where might this type of ecosystem be located? Give one specific example.
Describe the structure of the ecosystem: List both the abiotic components and biotic components
Describe the function of the ecosystem: How do the abiotic and biotic components interact in biogeochemical cycles?
Describe both the carbon and nitrogen cycles
Describe disturbance and recovery: Describe one natural and one human caused disturbance to the ecosystem you have chosen. Explain the damage to the ecosystem, including how the abiotic and biotic characteristics of the ecosystem changed.
Explain how ecosystems recover naturally based on resilience mechanisms and the theory of secondary succession.