Plants, bison, elk, and wolves are all members of an ecosystem. The bison and elk are both primary consumers in this ecosystem, while the wolves are a predator. Over time, the bison completely disappear. Give an example of how the ecosystem may respond to this change, and explain how this relates to both resiliency and biodiversity. (4 points) BoldItalicUnderline
The disappearance of bison from the ecosystem could lead to an increase in the elk population, as there would be less competition for resources such as food and space. This could result in overgrazing of vegetation, leading to a decrease in plant diversity and potentially causing a ripple effect throughout the entire ecosystem.
This situation highlights the interconnectedness of species within an ecosystem and the importance of biodiversity in maintaining its health and stability. A lack of biodiversity can make an ecosystem more vulnerable to disruptions, as there are fewer species to fill the roles and functions that are necessary for its functioning. In this case, the disappearance of bison could have a negative impact on the overall resiliency of the ecosystem, as it loses a key species that plays a role in maintaining balance and diversity.
Overall, the disappearance of bison can have far-reaching effects on the ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of all species in maintaining biodiversity and ensuring the resiliency of the ecosystem as a whole.