1) Bacteria, fungi, and earthworms are common decomposers found in soil. How do these decomposers help maintain a healthy ecosystem? a) By creating organic compounds that fight off viral infections b) By destroying habitats of non-native or invasive species c) By recycling dead organisms to release nutrients into the soil and air d) By creating energy for consumers through photosynthesis 2) A glacier retreats, leaving a large area of bare rock. Which statement best describes how ecological succession will affect the area? a) Animals will move into the area, enabling the growth of trees followed by grasses and shrubs. b) Trees will start to grow, causing the area to be shaded and allowing other plants to thrive. c) Lichens will begin to form soil, enabling the growth of mosses followed by grasses and shrubs. d) Animals will lay eggs in the soil, causing it to be fertile and allowing plant life to thrive. 3) The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is the world's largest coral reef system. Recently, the Great Barrier Reef experienced the worst mass bleaching event in its history. Bleaching turns the corals that make up the reef white due to the loss of algal pigmentation. Bleaching occurs when corals are exposed to stresses such as warmer than average water for prolonged periods of time. How will coral bleaching most likely affect the ecosystem around the reef? a) The corals will grow larger because the warm waters encourage growth. b) Large predators will be unable to hunt because brightly colored fish that live in the corals will be harder to detect. c) The rate of photosynthesis will increase because the chlorophyll in the corals will be more exposed to sunlight. d) Food sources for larger predators will be depleted because bright-colored fish who depend on the coral reef for protection will have to relocate.

Checkpoint 1 Prep

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