Organisms and their habitats depend on each other for survival. What would happen if one member of the habitat was removed?

Organisms and their habitats depend on each other for survival. Some survive better than others, depending on the conditions.

Natalie, Mike, and Melissa are arguing about why some organisms don’t survive as well as others in a habitat. They are thinking about a habitat like a rainforest as an example.

Which answer choice contains the best argument of why some animals wouldn’t survive as well as others in a rainforest?

Alligators are freshwater reptiles that need warm, wet environments to live. They can live in areas with short periods of cold but cannot stand long, harsh winters. They can eat a wide variety of prey (fish, turtles, small/medium mammals, etc.) and can move from water source to water source. They can live for short periods in saltwater but need freshwater long term.

Based on the provided information, if an alligator is moved to a Northern state, what would most likely happen?

Barrel Cactus - The barrel cactus is large and shaped like a barrel with spines and small flowers. The plant can reach up to seven feet tall. It likes to be in the full sun and only needs to be watered occasionally.

Grasslands - The grasslands in the Northern hemisphere are vast, open terrains with flowers and grass. There is enough rain to support small amounts of trees and lots of grass. The soil is thin and dry, and there are often wildfires. The temperatures range from very cold (in the negatives) to comfortable (in the mid-70's).

When comparing the grasslands environment to the desert where the cactus is usually found, how well will the organism survive, and why?

Allison, Rachel, and Erik are arguing about why some organisms don’t survive as well as others in a habitat. They are thinking about a panda bear as an example.

Which answer choice contains the best argument of what would happen to a panda bear if moved to a desert?

Alligators are freshwater reptiles that need warm, wet environments to live. They can live in areas with short periods of cold but cannot stand long, harsh winters. They can eat a wide variety of prey (fish, turtles, small/medium mammals, etc.) and can move from water source to water source. They are able to live for short periods in saltwater but need freshwater long term.

Which habitat would an alligator be able to live in, but less well than its natural environment?

What would happen to an organism if it was moved from its natural environment to somewhere new?

Many birds of prey like the osprey live in areas with lots of open bodies of water for hunting. They have terrific eyesight and can spot a fish from many feet in the air and dive down to scoop them out of the water with their sharp talons and strong feet.

Which habitat would an osprey be able to survive in, but less well when compared to its natural habitat?

Bromeliads: Bromeliads grow on tree trunks and branches and wrap their roots around the trees. They need wet habitats to grow well. They have a center portion like a cup or bowl that collects water. Their leaves are waxy, and the water slides into the center. The leaves are long and curved to collect water.

Which habitat would a bromeliad be able to survive in, but less well when compared to its natural habitat?