Sea otter predation influences coastal ecosystems by controlling sea urchins, allowing kelp to thrive. Killer whale predation on sea otters has led to an increase in sea urchins and a decline in kelp. Predator-prey interactions play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance.
Rephrase this sentence in 9th rade
In coastal ecosystems, sea otters help control sea urchin populations, which in turn allows kelp to thrive. When killer whales prey on sea otters, it leads to an increase in sea urchins and a decrease in kelp. The interactions between predators and prey are important for keeping the ecosystem in balance.
Example of each symbiotic relationship (mutualism, commensalism, parasitism)
- Mutualism: An example of mutualism is the relationship between bees and flowers. Bees pollinate the flowers while collecting nectar for food, benefiting both the bees and the flowers.
- Commensalism: An example of commensalism is the relationship between barnacles and whales. Barnacles attach themselves to the skin of whales to travel and feed on plankton, without harming or benefiting the whale in return.
- Parasitism: An example of parasitism is the relationship between ticks and dogs. Ticks feed on the blood of dogs, harming the dogs and benefiting themselves.