alluvial river: a river that flows over loose soil or sediment
blackwater river: a river that starts in the sand and clay of the coastal plain and appears black because of the acids found in it
communities: the populations (species) that live and interact in one area
consumers: organisms that eat other organisms for energy
decomposers: organisms that receive energy by breaking down other organisms
ecosystem: a community of organisms and their environment
populations: a group of individuals of the same species that live together
producers: organisms that use sunlight to create food and energy
tidewater river: a river whose flow is impacted by the tides
Flying over Georgia’s coast or driving down Interstate 95, a tourist might think that the winding waterways and wide marshes there are unchanging and uninteresting. These ecosystems, however, are home to hundreds of rare plant and animal species not found in the rest of the country. As a result, this area is protected by the ecologists who guard the coast and guarantee a bright future for all who live there.
Georgia’s southern ecoregion is made up of diverse populations and communities. These populations and communities rely on each other to exist. The hot sun of South Georgia provides the energy necessary for the plants of the coast to thrive. In addition, the nutrient-rich waters of its alluvial, blackwater, and tidewater rivers offer a perfect environment for the plants. These plants include cordgrass (the most important grass to this ecosystem), algae, live oaks, magnolias, palmetto palms, and cypress trees and are the producers that support the food web of the region. Plants appear at the bottom of the energy pyramid and are essential for the survival of other organisms. They also offer a habitat and protection for many species, such as birds and snails.
Consumers, who use the energy created by the producers and other consumers, include many rare or endangered species, such as the loggerhead sea turtle, the American bald eagle, and several shore birds. In addition, mussels (some of which are found nowhere else in the world), snails, crabs, clams, oysters, deer, snakes, and fish thrive. At the current time, the ecosystem is well-balanced, with consumers able to maintain their population because of the abundance of producers in the area. As a result, it is important that the delicate balance of producers and consumers be protected.
Decomposers of this ecosystem include bacteria and fungi. They take in energy by breaking down dead organisms and recycling the nutrients found in them. Only ten percent of cordgrass is eaten by consumers. The rest dies off and is broken down by these decomposers, adding rich nutrients back into the ecosystem.
The ecoregion of Georgia’s coast is monitored by several private foundations and public agencies. In order for this region to remain healthy, development must be carefully managed. Each new subdivision brings a risk of pollution from the runoff of septic systems and roadways. Increased boating activity leads to more strikes on endangered marine life as well as pollution caused by gasoline and oil leaks. Wetland filling in order to create pine plantations can impact bottom land forests, such as those along the shores of the Altamaha River. To date, the Altamaha is the home of 120 species of rare or endangered plants and animals not found in any other part of the country. Its waters drain nearly one fourth of Georgia’s land surface, and fortunately, it remains healthy and largely untouched by human development. Finally, withdrawals from coastal groundwater by growing towns can create the de-watering of the wetlands. Without the nutrient-rich water, much of the cordgrass could disappear. Man’s careless impact on this important ecosystem could cause damage.
In response to these dangers, many are working to create a sustainable future. Reserves have been established so that the wildlife of our state remains safe. In addition, the federal government funds research that monitors the health of the river systems of the area. Finally, laws protect large portions of Georgia’s coast to guarantee the protection of our natural habitats. Together, we can live in harmony with our natural treasures and protect them for future generations.
Multiple Choice Question
What is the author’s purpose for writing "Georgia’s Coastal Ecosystem"?
A.
to convince Georgians to protect the southern ecosystem from human impact on the region
B.
to describe the wealth of natural animal inhabitants living in the southern ecosystem
C.
to explain the geography of Georgia’s southern ecosystem
D.
to argue for new laws to protect the southern ecosystem
1 answer
The author’s purpose for writing "Georgia’s Coastal Ecosystem" is best captured by:
A. to convince Georgians to protect the southern ecosystem from human impact on the region.
The passage discusses the importance of the ecosystem, the rare species it supports, and the threats posed by human development and pollution. It emphasizes the need for careful management and protection of this region to ensure its health for future generations, suggesting that the author aims to persuade readers of the importance of conservation efforts.
