Biology 100 and 101
University of Illinois

Integrative Biology 100
Discussion Class, Sept. 17-19
#4 Ecosystem Energy & Matter

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Related Assignment:

Learner Objectives

You should be able to:

  1. Describe the means by which autotrophs and heterotrophs obtain energy and matter from their environment.

  2. Describe the roles of primary producers, herbivores, carnivores, and decomposers in the energy flow and nutrient cycling of an ecosystem.

  3. Explain how the concepts in the table below play an integral part in the growth and reproduction of individuals and the energy flow and nutrient cycling of an ecosystem.

    4. Photosynthesis Respiration
    Biosynthesis (Anabolism) Net Primary Production
    Biomass Decomposition

  4. Define and explain the distinction between the terms "energy flow" and "nutrient cycling" in an ecosystem.

  5. Apply the terms "energy flow" and "nutrient cycling" to an explanation of the "energy pyramid" or the concept of "the rule of tens."

  6. Analize a simple food web and predict changes that would occur in populations at all trophic levels if one population in the food web is adversely affected.

  7. Provide examples of events that represent energy flow and nutrient cycling in a natural ecosystem.

  8. Describe the possible paths of a mineral ion as it moves from the soil to the body of a carnivore.

  9. Apply the concepts of energy flow and nutrient cycling to the description of interactions of decomposer organisms in a compost pile.

The following links are for use in discussion and lab sections in conjunction with the Compost display materials.

Home Composting, from the University of Illinois

Cornell Composting, From Cornell University

From Smart Gardening