Question

In your own words, describe in 3-5 sentences what would happen to an ecosystem if a primary consumer is removed from the area.

Responses written with the help of AI will not be accepted.

(4 points)

Answer 1

If a primary consumer is removed from an ecosystem, it can lead to an overpopulation of primary producers, such as plants and algae, since there would be less grazing pressure on them. This unchecked growth may result in a depletion of nutrients in the soil and could disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. Additionally, the secondary consumers that rely on the primary consumers for food may struggle to find adequate resources, leading to a decline in their populations. Overall, the removal of a primary consumer can create a ripple effect, destabilizing the entire food web and altering the ecosystem dynamics.