You will investigate the biotic and abiotic structure and

Question

you will investigate the biotic and abiotic structure and function of an ecosystem.
Choose 1 of the following ecosystems:

• Tropical rainforest
• Grassland
• Coral reef
• Estuary
• Desert

You will write an APA-style research paper of 2-3 pages about your choice of ecosystem, covering the following in your paper:

• Where might this type of ecosystem be located? Give 1 specific example.

• Describe the structure of the ecosystem.

1. List both the abiotic components and biotic components.

• Describe the function of the ecosystem.

1. How do the abiotic and biotic components interact in biogeochemical cycles?
2. Describe both the carbon and nitrogen cycles.

• Describe disturbance and recovery.

1. Describe 1 natural and 1 human-caused disturbance to the ecosystem.
2. 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.