Biodiversity

Macro-scale ( mammals, birds, and reptiles) are dependent on the Micro-scale 

Supporting Stability

Termite mounds are biological hotspots that concentrate nutrients and water in semi-arid savanna ecosystems. When viewed from above, the mounds form a strikingly regular polka-dot pattern. Dr. Corina Tarnita uses mathematical modeling to explain the regularity of the pattern, how it arises and how the mounds enhance the stability of the ecosystem.

Learn how termite activity enhances ecosystem productivity and stability and enriches soil quality by processing and concentrating organic matter and promoting water infiltration with this engaging animation. 

Seed Dispersal & Habitat Fragmentation

Seed dispersal is an essential process in an ecosystem in which plant seeds are carried away from the parent plant. Plant survival is low when a seed is dropped near its parent plant because of competition and increases with distance away from the parent plant. Since seeds can’t travel on their own, they need to be transported by abiotic factors, such as wind and water or by animals.

This video looks at seed dispersal in a Colombian forest and how fragmentation of habitat limits the ability of spider monkeys to disperse seeds needed to keep the forest healthy. 

Ecosystem Functions

The term ecosystem function refers to the collective activities of plants, animals and microbes and the effects of those activities on the system as a whole. Some of these functions can provide direct benefit to humankind, and we often refer to such functions as “ecosystem services.” However, another important function is to mediate the flow of energy and materials through and within ecosystems, which is the focus in this story.

This chapter provides three examples of scientists studying essential functions of different habitats.