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Chapter 6: Problem 10

Give several examples of ways habitat change can either harm species or aid them.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Harmful changes to habitats could include pollution, deforestation, or climate change, which could introduce new predators, eliminate resources, or make the environment uninhabitable. Beneficial changes could include the creation of new habitats or reduction in competition or predation, as seen with habitat restoration efforts or emergence of new habitats due to natural events like volcanic eruptions. However, the impact isn't strictly negative or positive and varies case by case.

Step by step solution

01

Identifying Harmful Changes

Firstly, think about some ways in which habitat changes can be harmful to species. This may include the introduction of new predators or competition for resources, the destruction of habitats through human activities like deforestation or pollution, and the impact of climate change such as rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. For example, if a habitat becomes overly polluted, the species living in it might not be able to survive due to lack of clean water or air.
02

Identifying Beneficial Changes

Secondly, consider situations where changes in habitat could actually be beneficial. These might include the creation of new habitats through events like volcanic eruptions or human activities like reforestation, introduction of new food sources, or changes that reduce the impact of predators or competition. An example could be the melting of polar ice due to global warming. While it presents several risks to animal life, it could also open up new pathways for marine life and create new feeding grounds.
03

Summarize Findings

Lastly, summarize your findings highlighting both the harmful and beneficial impacts of habitat change on species. Remember, the impact of habitat change on species is not necessarily only negative or positive. It can be a mix of both, depending on the specific situation.

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