Introduction to ecosystems
Introduction to ecosystems


Free course

Introduction to ecosystems

3.3 Apply your knowledge of ecosystems

Figure 18

A number of interesting points came out of the previous section. Consider some other, wider questions about possible changes in the ecosystems and how they might affect life in the polar regions. For this activity you may need to draw on your general knowledge at that of others, in addition to your understanding of the course so far.

Go to the Week 3 forum [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]   and discuss the following questions.

  • What kinds of physiological adaptations to fluctuating food supply have organisms in the Arctic regions made?
  • What kinds of behavioural adaptations do organisms in the Arctic regions have that specifically suit the ecosystems they are a part of?
  • How do emperor penguins’ breeding patterns fit the harsh ecosystem they are a part of?
  • How would leopard seals be affected if the penguin population experienced a boom or a decline? What would this mean for the rest of the ecosystem they are a part of?

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