The Rainforest Ecosystem (Part 2)

What You'll Learn

Organisms in an ecosystem depend on each other. Producers make food, consumers eat other organisms, and decomposers break down dead material to recycle nutrients.

Key Words

pollination
photosynthesis
vertebrate

Materials Needed

ruler
magnifying glass
paper towels

Safety First

Use materials only as directed in the experiment.
Keep small objects away from young children.
Work in a well-ventilated area when using vinegar or other strong-smelling substances.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read the introduction and identify the main idea of this lesson.

Step 2 — Do

Create a detailed food web for a local ecosystem. Include at least 8 organisms and use arrows to show energy flow from producers to top predators.

Step 3 — Observe

Look for patterns in your observations.

Step 4 — Record

Make a graph or chart showing your results.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is the role of fungi in an ecosystem?