In the United States, national forests are managed by the

Construct a concept map that links the biomes and aquatic ecosystems described in this chapter with the factors that influence and distinguish them.

Build a concept map of terms from this chapter that shows how humans depend on and dominate natural ecosystems. Add other terms as needed. (Hint: Use the distinction between goods and services and the ways we interact with natural resources.)

What are the major factors controlling the distribution of terrestrial biomes? How do they differ in the seven biomes described in the chapter?

Describe the most important characteristics of each of the following biomes: tropical rain forest, temperate deciduous forest, savanna, and taiga.

Distinguish among streams, lakes, and the oceans. What characterizes each aquatic system?

What are phytoplankton and zooplankton? What limits them, and how are they linked?

Define the following marine zones: benthic, intertidal, aphotic, and pelagic.

What are some means of dispersal used by organisms? How have humans affected the dispersal of exotic species?

What is succession? Distinguish between primary and secondary succession.

Describe a typical primary succession on newly created land up until it reaches a climax stage.

What are some of the more important natural resources we depend on?

What natural services vital to human existence do ecosystems perform?

What are commons? How does human use of a commons lead to the tragedy of the commons?

Describe local, regional, and global examples of impacts of human activities on natural systems.

Explain the link between chlorofluorocarbons and the depletion of the ozone layer.

Why do similar biomes on different continents have different plant and animal species?

What are the limiting factors for each of the following: a desert, the tundra, a tropical rain forest, and the open ocean?

Describe the biome of your community. How is it similar to or different from the biomes described in this chapter?

For a biome where a temperate deciduous forest is the climax stage, describe several disturbances that could lead to greater biodiversity in the landscape. Explain your answer.

Describe how a federally owned grassland might be regulated so that use by many ranchers to graze their cattle would be sustainable.

Describe a situation in which all of the microorganisms in terrestrial ecosystems could be killed by pollutants. What would be the consequences to humans?

What common pool resources do you share with those around you? Is your community exploiting or conserving these commons?

Explain how evolution through natural selection affects the plants and animals in different biomes.

Phytoplankton in the photic zone of the oceans undergo seasonal increases and decreases. Explain how temperature, light, nutrients, and grazing by zooplankton could help cause these seasonal changes.

Select three biomes, and describe how each contributes to human needs.

Write a treaty among the nations of the world that would lead to a stable concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. How would your agreements affect the wealthier and poorer nations?

In the United States, national forests are managed by the USDA Forest Service. Use the web to investigate how well the Forest Service carries out its responsibilities and the management concepts it employs.

Research and evaluate the sustainability of such practices as controlling pests with chemical sprays, using or preventing forest and grassland fires, and hunting.