Chapter 3.1, Problem 4MI

Summary Introduction

To analyze:

The effect of prolonged drought on a biological community.

Introduction:

In any ecosystem, resources such as food, water, space and light are necessary for the survival of organisms. The resources are limited which cause competition among organisms for the basic needs such as food, shelter and suitable mate for reproduction. In case of natural calamities such as drought, earthquake, may cause some species of plants and animals to decline.

Explanation of Solution

The organisms in a biological community live together and constantly interact among themselves. Interactions include competition for basic needs such as food, shelter and mates. Since these resources are limited, the stronger can survive.

In the case of a natural calamity such as drought might cause some species of plants and animals to decline or become extinct in the area. Other organisms which are dependent for food on these plants and animals would also decline. Declining species would be replaced by species that are less prone to drought.

Conclusion

Drought uncharacteristic of the ecosystem which may cause some species of plants and animals to die and become extinct in that area. The organisms which are dependent on these may also decline.