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.dtngrdjrsehwsreh
One possible response to the disappearance of bison from the ecosystem could be an increase in the elk population due to reduced competition for resources. With more elk present, there may be increased grazing pressure on the plant population, potentially leading to overgrazing and decreased vegetation availability for other animals in the ecosystem.
This shift in population dynamics demonstrates how ecosystems can be resilient in the face of changes, as different species may be able to adapt and fill the ecological niche left by the bison. However, the loss of bison also highlights the importance of biodiversity in maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem. Without the presence of multiple species playing different roles, such as primary consumers like bison and elk, the overall health and stability of the ecosystem may be compromised.
Biodiversity in an ecosystem provides a level of redundancy and flexibility that enhances its ability to absorb and adapt to changes, helping to maintain its resiliency in the face of disturbances. Therefore, the disappearance of a key species like bison can have cascading effects on the ecosystem, underscoring the importance of preserving biodiversity for the overall health and functioning of ecosystems.