Lesson 2 Changes in Ecosystems How are Ecosystems

How are Ecosystems Changed? Ecosystems can be changed by a variety of factors. These

Changes that occur in an ecosystem can be either helpful or harmful to the

Short-Term Changes Short-term changes are changes that can affect an ecosystem temporarily, but may

Long-Term Changes Long-term changes are changes that can affect an ecosystem permanently, or may

Adaptations are the process by which the characteristics of a species change over many

Adaptations help plants and animals survive in their environment. These adaptations can help these

Key Questions 1. How can humans cause changes in an ecosystem? 2. How do

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Lesson 2: Changes in Ecosystems

How are Ecosystems Changed? Ecosystems can be changed by a variety of factors. These changes can be short-term or long-term.

Changes that occur in an ecosystem can be either helpful or harmful to the ecosystem and its populations

Short-Term Changes Short-term changes are changes that can affect an ecosystem temporarily, but may eventually return to their original state. Seasonal changes, forest fires, flooding, and drought are examples of short-term changes.

Long-Term Changes Long-term changes are changes that can affect an ecosystem permanently, or may that may remain for very long periods of time. Climate change, extinctions, weathering, and creation of new landforms are examples of long-term changes.

Adaptations are the process by which the characteristics of a species change over many generations in response to the environment.

Adaptations help plants and animals survive in their environment. These adaptations can help these organisms find food, protect themselves from predators, or survive extreme temperatures.

Observing Adaptations: Monkey

Observing Adaptations: Chameleon

Observing Adaptations: Jaguar

Observing Adaptations: Cactus

Observing Adaptations: Polar Bear

Observing Adaptations: Rattlesnake

Observing Adaptations: Clown Fish

Observing Adaptations: Horned Beetle

Observing Adaptations: Spider

Observing Adaptations: Mushrooms

Observing Adaptations: Giraffe

Observing Adaptations: African Hawk

Key Questions 1. How can humans cause changes in an ecosystem? 2. How do short-term and long-term changes affect ecosystems? 3. What are adaptations and how do they help plants and animals survive?