Assignment

To compare two pairs of ecosystems -- a terrestrial pair and an aquatic pair -- to address some specific questions listed below.  You are to use the chapters in the back of Smith & Smith and can use other references, as well.  I will be looking closely to make sure you aren't just copying the text -- so make sure you use your own words!    Note that the questions are asking you to compare the two terrestrial ecosystems to each another and the two aquatic ecosystems to one another.
 

What to Compare

Each of the ecosystems described in Chapters 27-37 are characterized by their structure, function, and human impact.  I'm asking you to make specific comparisons below.  What follows are specific pairs of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems for you to choose among.
 

What to Answer

For each pair of ecosystems, respond to the following specific questions.  This means you will have a set of comparisons for the terrestrial pair and another for the aquatic pair.  You are not comparing the terrestrial to the aquatic !!!   Here are the specific questions.  Make sure you read the entire section first, look at the figures, write-out some notes, and then address the questions.

1.  Compare the physical structure of the two ecosystems.  What specific physical (environmental) factors are typically found in each and how do they (the factors) differ in the two ecosystems ?  Is there one (or two) specific environmental factors that dominate or have an overriding impact on the ecosystem ?

2.  Compare the biological structure of the two ecosystms.  What is the nature of the biological structure of the two ecosystems ?  By biological structure, I mean the dominant organisms or communities (e.g., it might be a specific type of vegetation -- with a specific height, density, taxonomic group, or biology).   How does the species diversity of the two ecosystems compare ?

3.  Compare the function of the two ecosystems.  What is the relative amount of productivity, complexity of food webs, nutrient availability and cycling?  Are there differences in the nature of interactions between organisms and the physical environment in the two ?

4.  Compare the impact of humans on the two ecosystems.  What is the magnitude and types of impacts humans are having on the two ecosystems?  Compare the impacts on the biological vs. the physical aspects of the ecosystems.

5.  Describe your overall (personal) view of the two ecosystems.  Write a short paragraph about experiences you have had in each ecosystem.  If you haven't visited one or them, tell me about your impressions of them.
 

As you know, the standard answer is -- "... as long as it has to be to answer the questions".  I am expecting that a decent job will require at least half a page (single-spaced, typed) for each numbered question for each pair -- meaning 2.5 pages for each pair, or 5 pages total.  As an absolute upper limit, you should not do more than a total of 8 pages !!!