Ecology & Natural History At Fontbonne Academy

EdnaG, Assignment 04, 1st Draft

 

The bottleneck which E.O. Wilson discusses pertains to modern day humans, their lifestyle and the consequences of it. He repeatedly stresses the seriousness of the present situations that humanity has put itself in. Population and scientific advance, both continually increase and exponentially high rates. Rates that are so high in fact, that the earth and its natural resources, on which all life depends can not keep up.

As the human population,currently over 6 billion individuals, continues to grow the amount of space and necessitates required to sustain them also increases. In order to reach these needs that the growing population has people, especially the scientists and businessmen of the world stay at work improving old ideas and coming up with new ones. There are advances in all fields of study and commerce. Even beyond that, changes in those areas create changes in human culture and their life. Technological and medical advances, like antibiotics, refrigeration, vaccinations, purified water, and planes make it possible for humans to live longer, travel further, and be more “productive” in their lifetime.

These oh-so-wonderful advances make enrich culture but they come at a high price to the environment and its resources. This involves the obliteration of entire ecosystems and the deterioration of many others and the species residing there. While the economist argues that these occurrences are merely part of a phase that is to be expected, is normal, and will pass the educated mind of an ecologist knows better.

Such an ecologist, or even a high school student can infer that that economist may be correct about certain things that were part of such a statement. These occurrences are to be expected. Why not? The treatment of the earth by humans could not truly yield any other result except destruction. While deeming such events in the world as a normality can not hold, the second part that is true is that this will pass.

Time can not be stopped, and continually presses on. Stating that this is all a phase might be true. If so, however it would be a phase of the world not of humanity. For if such a “phase” is allowed to continue it will be the last humans ever act on. Eventually this “bottleneck” will pass, or hopefully something will pass survive passing through. The important question remains is who will be left when it does, and what will they be left with?

KatieG, Assignment 04, Draft

    The “bottleneck” Wilson refers to is the critical time in the near future when the human population will either slow its growth rate and begin preserving the earth or increase exponentially and likely run out of natural resources. Wilson relates staggering statistics. In 1950 there were 2.5 billion people on earth. Now there are over six billion. Advances in science and technology have enabled this rise. Medical advances, such as the invention of antibiotics and vaccines as well as lifestyle changes like increased literacy and cleanliness have all lengthened the average lifespan. This progress however, comes at a price. The world’s resources are finite and there are limits to how much stress the environment can handle. Whether these advances and the increased lifespan can be used for the earth’s good or whether the human race has already pushed the planet too far is the subject of much debate.

    Wilson relates the viewpoints of an archetypical economist whose main concerns are production and consumption. He believes the planet is “perpetually fruitful” and that technology can be used to reverse damage to the earth. According to him, human progress, both social and economical, is what is important. The environmentalist, however, sees the world’s resources as limited. If population growth and consumption are not curtailed the earth’s resources will essentially be used up.

    Although the viewpoints differ greatly, Wilson comments that the majority of people have both a little of the economist and the environmentalist inside them. Both perspectives show concern for human progress. The environmentalist however believes that human progress is now coming at a price that is much too high. Wilson agrees. To trust the economists’ plan for the future, which entails continued overuse of the planet’s resources tempered only by the hope that new technology could undo the damage, Wilson suggests is naive.

    There is no guarantee that the human race will survive. Our actions now and in the near future will determine whether or not we make it through the bottleneck. Of course it is our natural instinct to believe progress is good, however, we must temper our economist like thinking with the environmentalist’s voice of reason and ask ourselves if there is such a thing as too much progress. Looking at the sobering facts, it appears the answer is yes.          

nadaE Assignment04 Draft

            The bottleneck that Wilson is trying to portray for the reader in this chapter is that of the current human life struggle. Humans are going through a bottleneck of their own, trying to cope with the massive damage they’ve wrought upon the organism inhabitants of earth, the atmosphere itself, and worldly resources with new technology. The only way to solve such an issue is to look into two points of view; the view of the economist and the view of the ecologist, for guidance on resolving such issues.

            The economist argues that what the world is currently going through is a byproduct of success. Such a rediculas claim is only supported by money earned by consumption. The economist feels that the earnings of such success are mostly benefitial and argues that the human race consumes so many resources, that the damage taking place to our single most important biome is a healthy phase that will blow over. The only similar notion the economist shares with the ecologist is that this ‘phase’ that out world is undergoing has the ability to be dynamic, or change.  

            The ecologist, on the other hand, naturally disagrees with almost everything brought up by the economist. While the economist measures in consumption and benefit, the economist focuses on the overall being of one thing; this case being the earth. The ecologist knows that the earth is in a crisis, and that the ever-rising population of humans is not helping whatsoever. The only way the earth can ever recover from such a massive blow to it’s resources and atmosphere is for it to be nurtured and assisted. The ecologist, having less power than the economist, can only inform others on right decisions to help repair the damage done to the earth. The people who chose to listen to the ecologist over the economist are the ones who are really making the most difference.

            Overall, the bottleneck has also been extremely influenced by both positive and negative upgrades in technology. While vaccinations, sewage treatment, water treatment and modern transportation all benefit humans by keeping them safe and making life convenient, they actually damage the earth itself. All of these advances in technology help keep humans alive and healthier longer, which is what assists in population growth, disease eradication (which is good in the worldly sense, since it increases natural selection/population control), atmospheric damage, and resource damage. With all these new technologies that need to be fueled and running, people have raped the earth of resources, and it would have to take 4 more planet earths just to keep up with the growth and consumption of the American standard of living. While the economists in us keep looking to the bright and happy future at the end of this ‘phase’, the ecologist in us all knows that action has to be taken now to steer technology in the direction of controlling how the earth as a whole further evolves.

image of the hole in the O-zone layer; a side effect of global warming and pollution due to the over-exhaust of fossil fuels.

image from blogs.nature.com

ClaireC, Assignment 04, Draft

            The bottleneck effect can be extremely detrimental to an ecosystem. Though it is possible to happen to humans, we see it happening to animals much more; for example the cheetah. When a bottleneck occurs it means that a large community dwindles down to a small community. This can keep dwindling down to near extinction. This has been evident in animals, but Wilson is now saying that humans should be careful because we also face a bottleneck.

            Wilson starts the second chapter by talking about how humans have changed so much from the twentieth century to now, the twenty first century. In the twentieth century we were dark and savage and accepted the destruction of ecosystems and million year old species. Now we have changed a substantial amount. In the twenty first century we have been “awakened from our delirium” and now are providing more for our Earth. Wilson says that this happened because in the twentieth century we had science and technology combined with lack of self-understanding and Paleolithic obstinacy. Now in the twenty first century science and technology are combined with foresight and moral courage and this will get us out of the dilemma we are in. In class we discussed some forms of technology, which have helped us advance. We now have vaccines and antibiotics, which prevent and heal us from disease. We also are educated more on how we can keep ourselves healthy and live longer and reproduce in the world. We have a waste management system and clean water which keep us free of bacteria. In addition, we have transportation, such as refrigeration of products through trucks or airplanes. But we do not use this technology to all of our advantage. Technology such as transportation has even hurt our world more because of the air pollution is causes. Yet, we still use transportation even though it hurts our world so much. This is because we are getting economic growth from it, and we have become a world that cares more about wealth gain than the own health of our world.

            Wilson also discusses the differing views between economists and environmentalists. Wilson clearly does not agree with the economists. Their view is that it does not really matter what we are doing wrong to our world now, because we will fix everything later. It is kind of a lazy point of view and will eventually hurt the Earth very badly. Wilson uses the green revolution as an example for the economists. The green revolution raised crop yields in the developing countries and can be repeated with new technology. The economists see this as human entrepreneurship will nourish the world. They are much more into the ideology that human’s dominance is the world’s destiny. The environmentalists have a completely different point of view, they want to preserve the health of our planet. They understand that the problems of our world need to be solved now and cannot be left until later.

            Our world is growing at an alarming rate. Countries like China have amazingly high populations that their land is just not able to support. Though we have come a long way from the twentieth century, Wilson stresses that we all need to pay more attention to the things around us. We need to take charge of our planet and make use of the science and technology provided to us so that our world can be prolonged for many more centuries.

CaitlinD, Assignment 04, First Draft

In the second chapter of the Future of Life, Wilson describes the bottle neck theory. Many species undergo this bottle neck, even humans. The bottle neck theory is that as population increases, we damage the environment. Society has a race to improve technology, which in turn destroys the environment. Our ability to fix the environment will be overwhelmed by the damage that has already been done. Some examples are agriculture, transportation, and energy. The bottleneck is described by Wilson is an effect that occurs when a population gets decreasingly smaller and smaller to the point of extinction.  Because of this bottle neck effect, the population becomes so small that often species are forced to mate with members of their own family in order to maintain and sustain life.

Wilson compares the different views of the 20th and 21st centuries in this chapter.  He describes the twentieth century as a "dark and savage age of world wars, genocide, and totalitarian ideologies" which clearly shows his opinion of their treatment of the natural world during this period of time.  In the text he says that all of these natural resources were wasted.  For the 21st century, Wilson states that "we may be ready to settle down before we wreck the planet." He shows how in this day and age, society is beginning to realize that in time man will completely ruin the natural world, and society will have nothing left of it. He shows how society became aware of the damage that has been done in the past, and that it is crucial to repair what has been broken.

For every species that goes through the bottle neck, they must come up with technological advances, in order to survive. Over the past several hundred years humans have greatly increased their rate of survival, life expectancy, and health with the introduction of new technologies. Some examples are vaccines/antibiotics, sewage regulation, education, industrial advances, and refrigeration. These technological advances allow more people, but rapidly destroys the environment. , Wilson suggests, and in a sense, fears, that one day we will no longer have the ability to fix our damaged environment with technological advancements because our technology is what damaged the environment in the first place. In the bottle neck, each of the HIPPO factors become more and more severe. An example of this happening is Global warming.

Wilson also talks about the differences between environmentalists and economists in this chapter. Wilson specifically compares and contrasts their differences in terms of the environment.  Economists are "focused on production and consumption." They are more focused on specific numbers. Wilson states that the economists ask these two questions "How much resources do we have left?  How long will it take us to get more resources?"  Although these are important and necessary questions to be asked in order to save the earth's resources, Wilson believes that rather than asking, they should be doing. Wilson believes in spreading the word about this issue to society in order to fix the problem. Wilson favors the ideas and work of the environmentalists, they work diligently to come up with solutions, and to them, it is the main purpose, they believe in the outcome, for the better of the environment. The environmentalist says that  " the planet...is exhausted and in trouble."  Both the environmentalists and economists argue over what the earth needs most, and what are more sufficient ways to handle the problems.

In today's complex world, where everything seems possible, it is hard to ignore the damage society has caused for the environment. With each technological advance, more wreckage is built up. The environment is a main, necessary, and vital part of the lives of humans. Our natural resources should not be taken for granted, because if the society does not start a plan of action to save them, one day, they will no longer exist.

CaraM Assignment 04 first draft

 

In this chapter of The Future of Life, Wilson uses the term bottleneck to describe how species survive when faced with harsh lifestyles. For instance, cheetahs are trying to make it through the bottleneck by committing incest because it they were being over hunted and mating with their family was the only way of surviving. Another species that made it through the bottleneck is the human race. However, is our new technology and increased population destroying the earth?

    Although the new technology that humans have discovered has dramatically improved our lives and increase the life span for humans. Technology, such as water treatment plants, helps us live healthier by cleaning the water supply that may be contaminated by waste bacteria that may have seemed into the ground. Refrigerators are also a technology that has helped humans keep food from spoiling. This has also helped prevent illnesses caused by bacteria from spoiled food.

    Wilson refers to the economist and environmentalist to show the positive and negative sides to the advancements of technology.  The economist believes that the environment will be fine despite the growing industries that have benefitted the world’s economy. While the environmentalist acknowledges the improvements of human life, but also sees how the environment around us is in a decline. Although the economy will be great in our future the earth’s resource will probably not be available because of the over use of technology.

    China is a great example to how the environment cannot keep up with an increased population because China relies on a watering system for crops.  Even then, the food supply may come up short leaving people to starve. As the increase of technology and population keeps growing, the earth is unfortunately starting to decline. So perhaps the human race was a little too successful going through the bottleneck.

Assignment 04 LovingI.

 

 

  In Chapter Two of The Future of Life, Wilson begins to discuss in a more serious matter some of the issues surrounding our Century of the environment. We are introduced to the “bottleneck effect”. The bottleneck effect deals with a small number of organisms trying to cope. This is the case with our immediate environment. We as a people are in fact contributing to some problems that have arisen especially the over population of our Earth in a century where we as humans are indeed trying to cope with the outcomes of this increase in population. Wilson uses points of views from an economist focused on production and consumption and an environmentalist who is focused themselves on unsustainable crop yields, overdrawn aquifers, and threatened ecosystems. These two perspectives differ in their opinions, but also are comparable in some ways.

  Wilson discusses how science and technology along with foresight and moral courage will and must see us through the bottleneck presenting his opinion through the views of an  economist and environmentalist .The economist argues that although our environment suffers from its own problems, they can be solved and that our environment is prosperous in itself. The economist says that the national products of industry all over the world continue to rise and puts a positive view on the world stating that even though the world population has greatly increased, while it has increased, the food and crops has managed to keep up and increase as well. But the economist does mention some negatives saying that fibers are declining steeply in most parts of the world, but agriforestry (a method and system of land management involving the simultaneous cultivation of far crops and trees) has managed to provide aid to the declining fibers seeing as to how more than 20% of industrial wood fiber now comes from tree plantations. he/she believes that Human dominance is Earth’s destiny” and that harmful disturbances humans have inflicted can be moderated and reversed as time goes on.

  The environmentalist on the other hand has a different way of seeing things. He agrees that “humanity has learned how to create an economy driven paradise”, but says that is only true on a large flexible planet. The environmentalist believes that we should not look to GNPs (Gross National Products) and corporate annual reports for an accurate view of our world’s economic future. The environmentalist also argues that what counts in the long term is the content of economic growth with natural resources accounted for, not just the income in products and currency. The environmentalist stresses that the earth has lost its ability to change and that global exhaustion needs to be reduced and global production elevated or both.

   Both the environmentalist and economist agree that there has been an overwhelming increase in population. While the economist sees this as something that will be positive for our Earth, the envrironmentalist believes that this will affect the Earth negatively. Both present views on the issue that help us to see the factors that are involved in our Earth’s  future and through their opinions we see the affect that the bottleneck will continue to have on our Earth’s growing population and what we must do to help in the future of our planet Earth.

NinaF, Assignment 04, Draft 1

  A bottle neck is when a system is limited by one or more resources. The bottleneck is a result of conflict between advances in science and technology. Advances in technology and science are used towards gaining economic wealth. On the other hand the advances also bring problems into our environment.

Wilson presents arguments from two different perspectives: The economist and the environmentalist. The economist sees the environmental problems as easily fixable. They only focus on how everything is growing. The environmentalist believes that even with ups there are a lot of downs that we have to take caution too. Our society takes advantages of all these advances. If something were to happen it would be harder to fix. The environmentalist says that Earth has lost its ability to regenerate unless global consumption is reduced.

Both the economist and the environmentalist believe that there is an increase in things but the environmentalist thinks more about how resources could be wiped out and how it will be dangerous if it changes. The economist believes there are problems but believes that the economy is more important and that the troubles we have caused to the world can be changed as we move along.

This all relates because it in hopes of benefitting the earth. Wilson states that we should combine the values for the environmental dilemma and that way life can be safely conducted through the bottleneck that humans have made a hole in.

GillianM, Assignment 04, First draft

The term bottleneck refers to an extremely dangerous occurrence for living things on earth.  The bottleneck effect occurs when a specific population gets decreasingly smaller and smaller to the point where they could be close to extinction.  Because the population becomes so small, often individuals are forced to mate with members of their own family, which can sometimes cause genetic problems.  The bottleneck effect is something that many species have gone  through, even humans.  Clearly because we are alive, humans were able to overcome the bottleneck effect but other species were not so lucky. 

In Wilson's chapter The Bottleneck, he points out the differences between the twentieth and the twenty-first century.  He describes the twentieth century as a "dark and savage age of world wars, genocide, and totalitarian ideologies"(22).  Wilson says that because of these circumstances, people neglected the worlds natural resources and in a lot of ways wasted them.  He then goes on to describe the twenty-first century as a point in time when "we may be ready to settle down before we wreck the planet"(22).  This was the point where we realized that we need to save earth's resources because we keep wasting them, and that will only hurt us in the long run. 

Because the bottleneck effect causes so many problems for the species that is going through it, the members of this population have to work together to come up with technological advances that will increase their rate of survival.  For example, thousands of years ago, when humans went through the bottleneck, they had to create ways to help themselves.  Over the years humans have greatly increased their rate of survival with the introduction of new technology like vaccines, antibiotics, agriculture, transportation, and the realization of the importance of cleanliness.  All these things, along with many others, have contributed to the human race surviving.  They are resources that make our lives easier and make us healthier.  Though these resources were all introduced to the world to help us, unfortunately our reliance on them has caused us to damage our environment.  In terms of agriculture, we repeatedly plant crops in the same area and damage the soil.  We also use pesticides that damage the soil, and make our crops unhealthy.  In terms of transportation, we have become so reliant on cars and other forms of transportation that we use them to go everywhere.  Cars release carbon dioxide into the air, which damages our ozone layer.  Because of this, Wilson suggests that at a certain point we will no longer have the ability to fix our damaged environment with technology because our technology is what damaged it in the first place.

In this chapter Wilson also talks about the differences between environmentalists and economists, specifically their differences in terms of the environment.  He says that economists are "focused on production and consumption" (24).  He means that they are more focused on specific numbers.  How much resources do we have left?  How long will it take us to get more resources?  These are important questions, but Wilson clearly does not favor this group.  He feels that they go out there and spread the message that we have nothing to worry about, when in reality we have to make efforts to restore earths resources.  On the other hand Wilson definitely favors the environmentalists.  He likes that they work hard to come up with solutions, and that is their sole purpose.  They are not in it for the money or the acclaim.  The environmentalist says that  " the planet...is exhausted and in trouble."  Both groups make arguments for what the earth needs most and it seems as though the economists really have no concern at all for what will happen to earth, while the environmentalists give simple ideas for how to make it better. 

It is clear that the earth is in desperate need of help.  It seems as though you can not turn on the t.v. without hearing something about saving the environment.  People would not be going through all the trouble of spreading this message if there was not an issue there so we need to follow the advice of the environmentalists and do what needs to be done to save our planet.

  

 

feliciaf, assignment 04, draft

    In the second chapter of “The Future of Life” Edward O. Wilson describes his point on the human bottle neck.  Our society is facing our own bottle neck as we speak. This happens when we have remarkable advancements in technology that help us to support a larger population. Each technological advancement we came across had a direct effect good or bad on the condition of the environment. With all this happening the true dilemma is as the population does increase larger we are damaging the environment, by also making the HIPPO factors more and more severe.  Some may say that this new technology will fix the damage in the environment; this is not true a great example is global warming. So we see now that all these technology advances have great effects on the growth of the human population but devastating long term effects on the environment. Different people hold different views and positions on how the human bottle neck affects the overall world.

    Two perspectives specifically mentioned in the novel are an economist and an environmentalist. The environmentalist is truly concerned with the overall effects on the environment and the world we live in.  An environmentalist is also very concerned with the means of natural resources. As we damage our world we are damaging resources, we are not replacing these. This causes issues, one day what if we have no more fresh water. On the other hand an economist is worried more over the human race rather than the resources and our environment. We as humans need to find a happy medium where we worry about both to keep our world at a balance.

    We now see that most if not all technological advances cause an increase in population.  A lot of these advances have to do with medicines, vaccines and antibiotics are keeping younger children healthier longer while surgeries and knowledge of different diseases are keeping older people alive longer. Mean while all around life is easier because of other technologies, so more mothers are having more children. Hence population is significantly increasing.  With all of this happening in our world even with the increases in technology we cannot fix or even keep the pace on how fast our environment is being hurt. Even if we have all new technologies if we do not have an environment, what are we going to do?

GabriellaM, assignment 4, first draft

Bottleneck is a term used within the animal kingdom when a specific group of species is being over hunted and their only way of survival and reproduction is through incest mating. A good example of this is the cheetah. The second largest specie in the cat family, the cheetah is the fastest recorded land mammal. Due to over hunting of cheetah fur, they are becoming desperate for mates. The cheetah is aware of one thing: in order to keep the population growing, they must mate. Due to separation and dominant males taking over one another’s groups, two sibling cheetah’s mating is something they have been obligated to do lately because of the sudden disappearance of the cheetah population.

    In The Future of Life, E.O. Wilson discuss’ why the bottleneck effect is occurring with the human population. Due to over population with humans and the way we are using the natural resources from the Earth, the bottleneck is happening to us since the Earth is not replenishing itself immediately. Over population is the outcome of more and more couples deciding to have bigger families. Wilson blames medicine and technology for the baby boom because the improvements and discoveries of antibiotics, vaccines, purified water and humane living conditions elongate and promote healthier lives. Women now often use birth control contraceptives so the population is better under control, but for a long while bottleneck was facing the human population because we were hastefully using the Earth’s natural resources.

    Although improvements in technology and medicine are the cause for bottleneck to the Earth, medicine and technology have upgraded the health care so the life expectancy of children has been tripled so they can live until a ripe old age. One hundred years ago, children would die after a couple years old because they were diagnosed with tuberculosis or hay fever; diseases which were incurable and lethal to one’s health. With the vaccinations for nearly every disease known to man kind (not every disease, but most), tuberculosis and hay fever are not even apparent to the United States any longer.

    Wilson takes two sides on the issue of bottleneck; an economist and an environmentalist. The economist is similar to the business man. He believes that technology is a great thing and without technology we would not be as advanced as we are today. The environmentalist has a different point of view; he believes that although technology has helped us up until this point, we should halt from using it at this point and forward because it will cause severe side effects with the earth. Although the economist and environmentalist do share different belief’s, they do have one thing in common: technology has helped our country’s development tremendously, and with out technology our country would not have some of the best medical and health care systems in the world.

DanielleQ, Assignment 04, First Draft

A bottleneck is a phenomenon where the performance or capacity of an entire system is limited by a single or limited number of components or resources. What Wilson means is while there is an increase in the human population there is a decrease in the environment.

The conflict of this bottleneck is that while the advances in science technology benefit the human population, it has a harsh and long term effect on the surrounding environment. In an economist perspective the worries of the environment are not as important of the worries of the humans because, even though it is at a slightly slower pace, the regeneration process of the forests is happening at around the same time of their destruction.

In an environmentalist perspective just because the regeneration process is happening, it does not mean that the natural resources should be squandered so easily. Eventually an area will run out of fresh water and arable land and the only other option will be to move the research to another area. It is just not worth using up all of the natural resources on an experiment that might have little to no effect on current science technology.

Both of these perspectives have the idea to use some of the natural resources to benefit science technology in order to make life better for the human species. However, these perspectives vary greatly when it comes to how much of the resources should be used. While economist desires to use as much resources for research as possible an environmentalist only desires to use what is needed and not a drop more. While both groups have a common goal, their plans of action could not be more different.  

BetsyO Assignment 04 Draft

    A modern term in the field of ecology is Bottleneck. A bottleneck is a hindrance when it comes to production and development. An excellent example are the cheetahs, they are now facing a bottleneck, because they were overhunted so the population has gone down with the small population of cheetahs in Africa animal incest has become rampant, for each animal knows to survive they need to mate. To begin studying the bottleneck one must look to the past and study Darwin, what he studied. What has been the main cause of the bottleneck is the founder affect. The founder affect is when a very small group of individuals from a large group arrive at a new habitat; in fact they are invasive species.

    In the text The Future of Life by E.O Wilson he discusses and explains why a bottleneck is facing the human population, the reason is because more and more people are having children and the growth of the population and the decrease of lands and renewable resources are what are killing our planet. Wilson states that with the advancement in technology and medicine is the blame. With birth mortality low in many civilized countries more and more women are having babies. However with the advancement of contraception women are not having as many children as they once did. This is a main reason for the bottleneck and also with our demand for technological advancement the idea of renewable resources has been tossed aside.

    What technology has done to us as a society is put the pressure of more advancement in the fields of science and medicine, with the advancement of medicine people are living longer. Two hundred years ago children would be dying because of illnesses that now a days we have vaccines for. For Example as babies our parents take us to a doctor and we are vaccinated from whooping cough and polio. With the new vaccines and more affordable health care. Also with the advancement of technology education has become more available. Also the simple things which many people take advantage of today such as refrigeration, which is a fairly new advance in kitchen appliances, years ago if meat was spoiled people would just cook it a little longer and soon became sick with salmonella poisoning.

    In the text Wilson steps out of bounds and reviews the bottleneck in two points of view; the economist and the environmentalist.  In his economists point of view he explains how nothing is wrong with the advances in technology affecting the environment. The economist pleads that because of Agriforestry, we are not cutting down as much trees as we once were so the environment is not taking as big as a hit as people are saying it is. The economist and the environmentalist disagree in another way; the economist states that we as a society have transformed the environment to benefit human life. The environmentalist argues that we should be finding ways to improve our environment not hinder it as we are doing now, we are using non renewable resources and as a society we are not planning for the future. However the economist and the environmentalist both agree that we have come leaps and bounds in other areas of study we still need to improve more so in technology and in medicine.

marlok, assignment4, draft1

    Wilson describes in chapter two the term bottleneck, and what the world may soon be facing. The bottleneck Wilson describes is how technology helped the population of the world grow to a huge number, a number that without technology the world would not have reached, but at the same time how the technology will not be able to erase of the problems it caused the world. 

    The world's population has reached past six billion, a number that would not have been obtainable without advancements in technology. Sewage systems, refrigeration, vaccines/ medicine are little improvements that has brought the worlds population to the number it is today. The technology today is also increasing the world's population, cures for diseases and research advancement in the science world are saving people's lives. But with this advancement in technology, wealth and power plays a role. There comes a point when people are more concerned with the money they would make then the change they would bring. The technology we have available today, is now becoming a demand in society rather than a luxury. The advancement in technology is causing more problems in the world then it is solving, transportation is an advancement in technology but the pollution it is causing, in some eyes could be seen as a bigger problem rather than a good advancement. 

    In his text, Wilson shows both an economist and an environmentalist's view on the bottleneck. Both agree that a bottleneck occurred and the world's population is a high as it is due to the advancement in technology. But the economist would argue that the advancement in technology is something that should keep going, while the environmentalist would argue that the advancement needs to slow down or stop because it is causing more problems in the world then it is solving. 

Assignment 03 Final Draft LovingI.

  An ecosystem is a system formed by the interaction of a community of organisms with their environment. Many of these ecosystems exist on earth today comprised of a variety of many unique and different species.  There are numerous ecosystems that are being studied today and new organisms discovered all the time. These ecosystems contain organisms such as bacteria that make up a large number of diverse species in existence today.

  One example of a unique ecosystem is the McMurdo dry valley. It consists of twenty species of photosynthetic bacteria and a variety of tiny invertebrate animals that feed on these primary producers. This complex ecosystem includes fungi, mites, four species of nematode worms, rotifers, and bear animalcules. These species are labeled as extremophiles which are species that adapt to live in very harsh conditions.

    Another unique system of bacteria is SLIMES which stands for subsurface litho autotrophic microbial ecosystems that contain unique assemblages of bacteria & fungi that occupy pores in the combined mineral grains of igneous rock beneath Earth’s surface. SLIMEs obtain their energy from inorganic chemicals and are totally independent of life on the surface. Wilson says that SLIMES exist on extraterrestrial planets such as Mars. Water that once existed on the Martian surface was enough to attract these bacteria so that they could inhabit its surface.SLIMES  would survive  even if all other life was to vanish the SLIMES which can aslo be caled microscopic troglodytes would continue to thrive.Within billions of years SLIMES could even evolve new forms to inhabit the surface and resynthesize the precatastrophe world dominated by the process of photosynthesis.

  Lake Vostok is another ecosystem unique in its on nature as it is thought to be sterile, but still contains organisms. When the glacial ice of this environment was drilled, it revealed a variety of bacteria and fungi from the hidden water.

  In the reading, Wilson discusses how the distribution of life has revealed several fundamental patterns in the way species are arranged in ecosystems the first being that bacteria & archaens are everywhere there is life of any kind. Second, even in the smallest space tiny protists and invertebrates invade and prey on microbes and one another. And finally third, the largest diversity of life occurs in habitats with yearly solar energy, varied terrain, climatic stability & exposure of ice-free terrain. Ecosystems according to Wilson are linked to other existing ecosystems. British scientists James E. Lovelock said that ecosystems are tied to the entire biosphere which is a singular entity he referred to as Gaia.

  Ecosystems exist all over the planet earth in many varieties and entities. These ecosystems are studied by some of the greatest ecologists and systematists today. More and more organisms are being revealed in our environment. With continued studies, these ecosystems will continue to be exposed to the world and our knowledge of these new discoveries of ecosystems will be known.

 

(McMurdo Dry Valley)

ClaireC, Assignment 03, Final

Ecosystems are extremely vital areas in our world. An ecosystem can be defined as a combination of all biotic and abiotic factors in a specific area. Whereas a biosphere is all of the regions of the earth that support living organisms. Many scientists study ecosystems vigorously so that they can understand better how organisms thrive and live in these areas. In chapter one of The Future of Life Wilson talks about many ecosystems, but namely the McMurdo Dry Valleys.

            The McMurdo Dry Valleys are located in Antarctica. It’s soils are the coldest, driest, and most nutritionally deficient in the world. Though one would think there would be no life existent in this area, it is actually the complete opposite. Organisms called extremophiles, which are organisms that live in extreme and hard conditions, inhabit the McMurdo Dry Valleys. Extremophiles can be classified into three different subsets: Bacteria which are microbes, Eukarya which are single celled protozoans, and the Archea which are the secondary microbes. A specific type of extremophile discussed in the first chapter of the book are the Pyrolobus fumarii, who are the reining world champions among the hyperthermophiles. This means that they are basically lovers of extreme heat. They can reproduce at 235 degrees, and does best when temperature is around 221 degrees. It is chilly weather for them when it is a scalding 194 degrees! The extremophiles that live in the McMurdo Dry Valleys are completely different though. They live under glaciers where virtually no sunlight or oxygen can pass through.  They depend on carbon dioxide, phosphates, and other nutrients that work from the ocean below. This is how the extremophiles get their energy. Though during the dark periods of time in Antarctica, the bacteria feeds off of the salt in the salt water because they are not able to retain sunlight to keep them living. Though it may seem impossible, a food web does exist in this area of the world. The extremophiles,microscopic bacteria and algae, retain their energy from the carbon, phosphates and other nutrients since no other sunlight passes through. The next level are the nematodes, who feed on this bacteria. There are four types of nematodes, who specifically feed on different types of bacteria.

            SLIMEs are sub surface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems. SLIMEs can be defined as unique assemblages of bacteria and fungi that occupy pores in the mineral grains of igneous rock beneath the Earth’s surface. SLIMEs obtain their energy from inorganic chemicals. These SLIMEs are also completely independent of life on the surface of the Earth because they do not need their energy from sunlight. SLIMEs are very significant because they give rise to there being a possibility of life on other planets, namely Mars. Scientists believe that because it has been proven that there is water on Mars, at one time up to five hundred meters, that there is a possibility that extremophiles made this planet their home.

            Ecosystems can form pretty much everywhere. Wilson even says that it’s possible that there could be “tiny spider-like mites build nests at the base of your eyelashes”. Ecosystems are vital to our environment and Wilson stressed how they are influential and his book “The Future of Life” teaches us how we need to preserve them because they make up so much of our world.

GabriellaM, assignment 3, final draft

An ecosystem is a specific area consisting of biotic and abiotic species where organisms have settled down and cordinate their meals and way of life. Ecosystems can be formed virtually anywhere, as long as there is a stable energy source that can be maintained so the producers can start the system of the food web. With out the producers, it would be challenging for the top predators to receive their energy. Since only 10% is passed onto each trophic level at a time, the producers, which are the most abundant of the levels, are crucial because they absorb the most energy. Surprisingly, not all ecosystems are in the presence of the most commonly known energy source: the sun. In fact many ecosystems have hardly any sun exposure at all. But, for the majority of the time, ecosystems with scarce or no sun exposure or have very extreme weather contain organisms which are known as extremophiles, or species whom adapt to live on the brim of biological tolerance. But, these species are usually not seen by the naked eye.

    Extremophiles are usually bacteria. More specifically, they are Bacteria which are traditional microbes, Archaea which are the secondary microbes, and Eukarya which are the single celled protozoans. Bacteria and archaea are found on the sides of volcanoes and around the area of hydrothermal vents. Considering volcanoes and hydrothermal vents are scalding hot, common sense acknowledges that these bacterium must be adapted to an extremely hot climate. An example of bacteria found in boiling hot water or areas with a boiling-point climate is Pyrolobus fumarii. These bacterium are hyperthermophiles, or organisms which dwell in extreme heat. But hydrothermophiles are not the only extremophiles. Due to wars and other armed attacks in the past, nuclear bombs and radiation have hit certain areas of the world. typically when that happens, it is capable of wiping out entire towns and cities. An extreme bacteria which has evolved to tolerate radiation is the Deinococcus radiodurans. These bacterium have the ability to withhold through these circumstances because they are able to repair broken DNA while humans are unable to repair damages to it.

    These microbes are also capable of establishing life in places which we are alien to. Besides these superbugs, evidence of SLIMEs (subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems) have been apparent in Space. SLIMEs are similar to superbugs, but they live under dry rocks or dry surfaces. Also like the superbugs, they are unable to be seen without a microscope. SLIMEs are very significant for the advances of microbiology because they are proof in guiding microbiologists that there is possible life on other planets. On Mars, biologists have (so far) been lead to the facts that there has been records of water there. Where there is water, there is life, or something like it. We are not positive what form of life has been on Mars, but with time and advances in technology, we will be sure to find out.

    In the McMurdo Dry Valley of Antartica, to gaze at the dry and malnourished soil can send chills up your spine. To look around and see no sign of human or animal activity is a freezing thought, literally. The McMurdo Dry Valley is the most frigid and nutrient deficient valley in the world. By the naked eye you see no organisms, but in actuality there are organisms everywhere, whether they be the SLIMEs or the extremophiles. Although there appears to be no life in the Valley, it is a questionable thought where its energy comes from and where its food web begins. On the bodies of water, there is bacterium which lives on the water's surface. It absorbs the sun's energy and the marine organisms are the first level consumers.

    An ecosystem is a place for multiple organisms and abiotic factors to unite and form alliances with each other. Where there are producers, there are animals of all sizes which form the tophic levels and pass the energy on from one to another. In the most extreme places, establishing an ecosystem is possible. With the information scientists have gathered over the years, we have answered many mysterious questions Americans have always been curious about. But, with these advances comes more mystery and more curiosity. With the help of science and technology, our future questions will be answered and we will be able to become more familiar with the extremophiles and SLIMEs which are foreign to us right now.

EdnaG, Assignment 03, Final Draft

E.O Wilson, along with other naturalists, ecologists, and systematists thrive on gaining knowledge from the natural world on Earth.  Every inch of planetary surface is included in Gaia, James E Lovelock's nickname for the biosphere. Recently reaching what had been deemed as "the ends of the earth" has been made possible, thanks to scientific advancement and political compromises. Ecosystems such as  the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica and  SLIME communities have been accessible for to scientists for their studies. Making it so virtually almost all of the biosphere, the complex sum of all biotic and abiotic factors of all of Earth's ecosystems become their classroom. Unique physical and biological components that decide the environment of a specific area, are called ecosystems. So while each has its own distinguishing factors, and are studied individually they are interdependent as parts of the biosphere.

Antarctica, which is thought of as the last frontier on earth is where the McMurdo Dry Valleys are found. They are rank high among ecosystems that are studied, and for good reason. The geographical set up of these valleys allows for the coldest, driest, and most nutritionally land found on Earth, closely resembling Mars. So although it takes a microscope to see them species are found here. These microscopic species are mostly bacteria and algae, whose populations and life cycles vary depending on the summer length and temperature resulting in melting ice. The food web in this ecosystem exist, like all others dependent on a source of energy and producers who directly use it. The summer is vital as it is the source of energy for the algae  and other producers. Other organisms who are not autotrophs relay on these producers to reproduce and grow. As they consume them, or other organisms who do. Thisis the way food webs run in all ecosystems, based on a source of energy, producers utilizing its energy, and upper level organisms relaying on the efficiency of this process. The food web of the McMurdo Dry Valleys is special because the organisms who comprise it do so while surviving under some of the harshest conditions known to man. They are called extremophiles. They are the biotic factors in this ecosystem, and are wonderful examples of how abiotic factors interact with biotic ones.

Similarly SLIME communities are also amazing examples of the relationship between the components of an ecosystem. SLIMEs (subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems) are relatively new to the scientific world, although their existence is believed to be much,much older. They are ecosystems that are under the surface of the Earth where species of bacteria and fungi live in the pores of interlocking mineral grains of igneous rock. They are so far below that sunlight, thought at one time to be the only source of energy for autotrophs, never reaches them. The required energy to sustain life is obtained by inorganic chemicals that surround them. Therefore they do not require energy from producers  or consumers who directly or indirectly acquired energy from the sun. Virtually independent of life in all other ecosystems, but still part of the biosphere makes this ecosystem and its abiotic and biotic factors truly remarkable.

These amazing ecosystems, the McMurdo Dry Valleys and SLIMEs are focused on by Wilson. The reason being that he has a desire to share not just the facts but the significance these ecosystems.hold. While details are fascinating by themselves alone, the main point he is pushes is that these ecosystems, and even ecosystems that are not so extreme are sources of great knowledge, knowledge that may be wiped away if humanity ignores its duty. This knowledge is defiantly being proven to be a necessity as the species shown emphasize humans own fragile state. 

CaitlinD, Assignment 03, Final Draft

Ecosystems are the main, and essential studies of Ecology. Defined as a system which is formed by the interactions of a community of abiotic, and biotic organisms with their surroundings, energy and environments. In an ecosystem, organisms are classified by the "food web". The food web is an example of how these organisms interact with one another by consuming, competing, being consumed, surviving, and working with each other. There are ecosystems all around, an example of an ecosystem is the Neponset River, a coral reef, of the Amazon Rain Forest. By studying ecosystems as a whole, scientists gain much more knowledge of the actions of organisms, and get an insight of their lifestyles.

Wilson describes several types of ecosystems in this chapter, and mainly focuses on The McMurdo dry valleys. These valleys are located in Antarctica, and is known as one of the coldest places on earth and the soil extremely lacks nutrition. Wilson states in the text that in order to have an ecosystem, you need to have " a domain of life". The reason, and main attraction of the frigid McMurdo dry valleys, is because in these barren valleys, scientists have discovered living organisms residing in these valleys. These organisms are classified as extremophiles; defined as organisms who live in the harshest environments that exist on earth. They are able to thrive, survive, and most importantly, reproduce in these harsh climates and conditions. Some examples of these extremophiles are the twenty photosynthetic bacteria discovered, which get their energy and nutrients through, photosynthesis. Other examples of these extremophiles are tardigrades, or "water bears" which can form cysts around themselves in order to survive, and can live and thrive for fifty years or more living in between the cysts. Scientists also found single celled algae and microscopic invertebrate organisms that receive their nutrients through the producers and four different types of nematodes, which are at the top of the food web chain in this ecosystem, that consume the ecosystems species and organisms. All of these organisms depend their lives and existence on the summer months because of the water that is created by the melting of the glaciers. They are also widely effected by the severe abiotic factors of the dry valleys, like the harsh climate in the winter, the freezing temperatures, and the absence of water and sunlight during the long excruciating winter months.  Although the only extremophiles that have been discovered are microscopic bacteria, they are exceptional and extraordinary organisms which fascinate scientists and ecologists all over the world.

One of the biggest research projects of the 21st century has been conducted in outer space, preferably on Mars. Ecologists have been working to help the studies of the scientists of Nasa with their study called SLIME. This abbreviation stands for, subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems. These communities referred to as SLIME primarily, and mainly consist of fungi and bacteria. These organisms thrive in the pores of mineral grains on rock under the surface of the earth. These organisms get their nutrition and survive by using the energy from the inorganic chemicals located in the rock. The connection of the SLIME communities and Mars is the fact that these organisms give more evidence and reasoning to believe that life exists on other planets.  Scientists believe that Mars once had bodies of water which led to having living organisms.

    Ecosystems are essential parts of the study of ecology because of the vast information they provide. All organisms react to their environments differently and by studying these organisms in their habitats, scientists can distinguish different types of classifications. By studying in rare or extreme environments, scientists also discover new and astonishing organisms, or extremophiles, that lead to many questions, answers, and possibly discovery of life on other planets.

McMurdo Dry Valleys - from the NSF website

NinaF, Assignment 03. Final

An ecosystem is a network of organisms, materials, and energy. One ecosystem is linked not only to other ecosystems but to the entire biosphere according to scientist James E. Lovelock in 1972.

There are different types of ecosystems. A type of ecosystems mentioned is SLIMEs (sub-surface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems). These ecosystems contain bacteria and fungi that live in pores of interlocking mineral grains of igneous rock below the surface. They are independent of life on the surface. That is an example that ecosystems are not always large areas filled with many different types of organisms. They can simply be a set of organisms living in one area. The SLIMEs fit the definition of an ecosystem because they are a network of organisms, materials, and energy.

 The McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica are an example as well. At first glance it appears to be a plain uninhabited area but there are populations of microscopic organisms. They are extremophiles, organisms that live in extreme conditions. This ecosystem fits the overall definition of an ecosystem: a network of organisms, materials, and energy. Though it is not seen by the naked eye, there is a group of organisms living off what little the Dry Valleys have to offer. There are various single-celled algae and many microscopic organisms that feed off of the primary consumers.

The SLIMEs and the McMurdo Dry Valleys are only a few examples of populations that are hidden. Scientists are using these examples towards the idea that there may be life on other planets, life that we cannot see.

CaraM Assignment 03 Final draft

An ecosystem is a habitat where some form of abiotic or biotic factors can exist, even under harsh conditions such as 600F temperature. These types of organisms are called extremophiles, which are organisms that can only live in the extreme climates of intense heat or intense cold weather. Pyrolobus fumarii, for example, can only thrive between the temperatures of 235F to 194F.  

    An example of a habitat that has harsh weather conditions is the McMurdo dry valley, which is located in Antarctica, is a host for extremophiles. The soil there cold and dry that at first people did not think that anything could live there. "In 1903, Robert F. Scott was the irst to explore the McMurdo Dry Valley, said 'We have see no living thing, not even a moss or lichen; all that we did find, far inland among the moraine heaps, was the skeleton of a Weddell seal, and how that came there is beyond guessing'" (Wilson 4).  However, when scientist later looked at the soil with a microscope, scientists were able to find photosynthesizing bacteria that were thriving. Another example of an extremophiles are SLIMEs, or subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems. SLIMEs are an assembly of bacteria and fungi. They are more independent than the creature on the surface and do not rely on our main source of energy, the sun. They usually live two or more miles below the surface of the earth and use inorganic materials to obtain energy

The research in this topic has heightened the interest in exobiology, or the study of future life in the universe. Because of the discovery of the SLIMEs, there has been a discussion on whether there could be life on different planets, only living under the surface like the SLIMEs. These recent discoveries in the McMurdo dry valley and the SLIMEs do make a strong argument that there could be life on planets that even have harshest conditions

gillianm, assignment 03, final draft

An ecosystem is a biosphere where biotic and abiotic organisms can sustain life.  A biosphere is any part of the world that is able to support life.  Some scientists think of the whole Earth as one big biosphere that is thought of as a "superorganism".  This superorganism is also known as Gaia.  Ecosystems can be found everywhere on Earth even in the most unlikely places.  When most people think of ecosystems, they think of areas like oceans and parks, where the organisms living there are large enough to see with the naked eye. However, areas like volcanoes and extremely hot hydrothermic vents are able to sustain life too.  For example, there are millions of bacteria living on the hydrothermic vents that are constantly at beyond boiling temperatures.  These types of bacteria can also be found living under similar conditions inside molten hot volcanoes.  These organisms that are able to live under harsh conditions are called extremophiles.  Extremophiles have adapted to living under intense conditions that other organisms could not, but in the same respect the extremophiles would not be able to survive under what we consider normal conditions. 

One specific area that is home to extremophiles is the McMurdow Dry Valley in Antarctica.  This valley is extremely cold, dry, and has barely any nutrients in its soil.  Even though it seems like the area would not be able to support any type of life, scientists have discovered bacteria living within the soil and fossils of animals that once lived there.  The McMurdow dry valley is similar to the surface of Mars, which is the major planet that scientists have studied to see if life was once present on other planets.  The discovery of life within the valley gives hope to scientists that there is a big possibility that there could have been life on mars at some point. 

A SLIME ecosystem is an ecosystem that is home to small organisms that live underground, and generally get their energy from the rocks that they live in.  Even if all other life on Earth died off, these organisms would be able to live on.  The SLIME ecosystems are also of great importance to scientists studying the possibility of life on other planets because, some believe that there may be SLIME ecosystems present deep within the surface of Mars.

The scientists who study these ecosystems are usually called either ecologists or systematisists.  Ecologists tend to focus on the classification of one specific species while, systematisists focus more on the classification of species as a unit.  Both do important work and rely on the information the other group has gathered in order to fully gather their own information.  Ecologists and systematisists are a huge play a major role in the scientific world because they are the scientists who are working towards answering a question that many have asked:  Is there a possibility that life can be sustained in other areas besides Earth? 

nadaE Assignment03 Final

                Ecosystems, or an interwoven community of organisms and their environment, are the fundamental classification of interactive areas in nature. A more simplified definition is given by Wilson, who states that an ecosystem ‘is a dynamic network of organisms, materials and energy’. Ecosystems are vital specimens to ecological scientists. Ecosystems demonstrate the interaction living organisms have with each other and their given resources. Ecosystems are easily identified, yet some, like the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica and SLIME communities are a littler harder to discover life with the naked eye.

                The McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica are vast, empty wastelands that stretch over parts over a freezing continent. While life on such a barren area seems impossible, the land is actually overflowing with life. Bacteria and other ‘extremophiles’ reside in such barren lands. Extremophiles are organisms that live under excruciating conditions; like extreme heat or cold. These organisms live off water that melts from the glaciers during the summer, and thrive in the low temperatures and lack of nutritional resources from it’s home environment.

                The second ecosystem Wilson discusses are the SLIME communities. SLIME stands for ‘subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems’. ‘litho’, meaning rock, refers to rock-dwelling bacteria and fungi. These bacteria and fungi live in the pores of rock under the surface of earth and live off of inorganic resources. SLIME organisms are microscopic and can live under the earth’s surface up to two miles. A popular extremophile for this particular environment is the Tardigrade, or Water Bear. The Tardigrade is a perfect example of an extremophile because of the way it endures its harsh environment. The Tardigrade literally rolls up and goes into a type of extreme hibernation. The Tardigrade only resurfaces from its hibernation when the resources it requires to live, like water, are available.

                Overall, the earth supports  thousands of ecosystems, some of which are harder to find than others. As discussed in class, all organisms are part of a food pyramid. They are all filled with life and cycle energy up the pyramid, which simultaneously spreads it around the world and continue to sustain life. The studies preformed by thousands of scientists are continuing to uncover more and more about ecosystems, and more about the world itself.

  

Image of a Tardigrade, or Water Bear.
Taken from mars anomaly reseach

KatieG, Assignment 03, Final Draft

An ecosystem, according to Wilson, is a dynamic network of organisms, materials, and energy. It is a community of species that interact with each other and their environment by consuming, being consumed, competing and cooperating with other species. Of the three classification levels of biodiversity, ecosystems are at the top. They can be areas such as rainforests, coral reefs, or lakes and include biotic as well as abiotic factors. However, ecosystems can also exist in places that one would not normally associate with life.

One such example of a less obvious ecosystem is the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica. To the naked eye the area is a barren wasteland. With the aid of a microscope, however, it is teeming with life. The organisms there, dubbed extremophiles for their adaptations that allow them to live at the edge of biological tolerance, include twenty species of photosynthetic bacteria, a variety of single celled algae, and microscopic invertebrate animals that feed on these primary producers. At the top of the food web are four types of nematodes each specialized to consume different species of the area’s flora and fauna. Considering how dry the valleys are these organisms depend on the summer flow of glacial icefield meltwater. Sometimes, due to changing stream patterns the organism must wait years or centuries for water. Other abiotic factors of the dry valleys include the extreme cold and the nutritionally deficient soil.

Another unusual ecosystem is that of the SLIMEs or subsurface litho autotrophic microbial ecosystems. These are communities of bacteria and fungi in pores occupying the interlocking mineral grains of igneous rock beneath Earth’s surface. They are able to survive at depths of two miles and more and obtain their energy from inorganic materials. These ecosystems are independent of life on earth’s surface. This independence is intriguing to scientists because it suggests the possibility of life on other planets. The SLIMEs especially indicate the possibility of life on Mars.  

Although there are many different types of ecosystems, typical and not, they all support life. Ecosystems, as Wilson relates, are dynamic networks of organisms, materials and energy. This can apply to our own backyards or to the dry valleys of Antarctica.

Antarticsun.usap.gov

DanielleQ, Assignment 03, Final Draft

According to definition an ecosystem is a combination of all the abiotic and biotic in a habitant. The McMurdo dry valley at first glances contains no living organisms, but at one point might have according to the skeleton of a Weddell seal. It would be simply to say that there is nothing there, or rather there is nothing visible to the human eye. There is in fact millions of species of bacteria that make that same barren land their home under the frozen ground. The SLIMEs species simply adore ability to spend their time in and under the rocks of the dry valley.

Similarly to the thoughts of their being life on Mars there is a microscopic bacterium that is able to survive in a normally unlivable environment. The SLIMEs are one of the few species that can make use of a rock during the extremely frigid temperatures of the McMurdo dry valleys while the Pyrolobus fumarii can make use of the scalding hot water of the ocean. There are worms who can survive in hydrothermal vents, and insects that put themselves in suspended animation in order to survive the arctic winters. The SLIMEs and these other insects are able to use these extreme environments to their advantages in order to continue their lives.

The SLIMEs hold hope that one day they can be used to discover if there is in fact life on Mars. By using the examples of these extraordinary bacteria it can help scientist with their work.  The hypothesis that Mars once held oceans of water on its surface suggests that bacteria similar to the SLIMEs can be found to determine more about the mysterious red planet.

Mars

feliciaf, assignment 03,final

    Chapter 1 “The Ends of the Earth”, Wilson describes extreme ecosystems of the world. An ecosystem is the total make up of all the living and non-living elements in an area. Wilson is not talking about any old back yards woods, these are places where we would not believe that organisms could live and survive. Some examples include the hydrothermal vents, volcanoes in Hawaii, Dry valley ECT.

    An ecosystem besides including the ordinary things like plants and animals, it is every abiotic and biotic element to a habitat or specific area. This incorporates food, housing, predators, competitors, human activity and especial in these cases the climate and weather conditions. Extremophiles are the life that exists in the most improbable place and happen to be new to biology. These tend to be bacterium. So they depend specifically on the climate conditions, whether they need extreme cold or extreme heat it is a very specific condition to pertain to the certain bacterium. 

     An example that E.O Wilson talks about is the SLIME ecosystem. This acronym stands for subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystem.  So all we need to know is right in its name; it’s an extremely microscopic bacterium that lives below earth’s surface and makes its own food. The major significance of studying SLIME is the thought that life could exist on other planets. Because of the factor that the SLIME ecosystem lives two to three miles below the earth’s surface, its only energy source is directly from earth’s rock. We know that there are rocks on other planets, so now it is known that life can exist on rock alone; example the SLIME ecosystem.  In this case there is no real complexity to the energy pyramid. The bacterium gets its nutrients straight from the rocks themselves, but rocks are not primary producers because there is no sunlight to get energy from. They are their own energy providers for themselves and the bacterium.

    Another extreme ecosystem that has the same issue as SLIME, the issue of no light. Is the McMurdo Dry Valleys. When an organism has no light source for a certain amount of time the organism become dormant, The Dry Valleys have no light for six months out of the year. Also the area is made up of frozen lakes; all organisms that live in this extreme condition live under the surface of the frozen water. These organism feed off of the salt from the water, which are called halophiles. These halophiles only have one source of energy, which poses a limited energy pyramid. There are no other options of food source if for some reason there was no more salt water.

    This chapter shows the reader the unusual ecosystems and how they can be studied. Wilson is trying to teach the reader that an ecosystem is not what we all think it is and never the ordinary. Each system is pertained for a certain organism to live comfortably, or their individual way of comfort.

BetsyO Assignment 03 Final

When studying Ecology it is important to understand what an ecosystem consists of, such as food and the type of animals living in the ecosystem. A definition of an ecosystem is a system formed by the interactions of a community of organisms with their environment. While studying an ecosystem it is important to know what a SLIME community is and what it consists of, and to learn the importance of the McMurdo dry valleys.

Wilson describes all types of ecosystems; he states that to be able to have a functioning ecosystem you need to have a balance of animals and plants in the ecosystem. He states in the text Biologists have noticed in the ecosystem there are three domains of life, on the idea of DNA sequencing and cell structure. “They are bacteria… The archea… and the Eukarya, which include the single celled protists or "protozoan’s," the fungi, and all of the animals, including us"(Wilson5). What Wilson is trying to tell us is that if a species is a single cell organism it is still considered to have its own ecosystem. Wilson also describes the most studied ecosystem today, which are the McMurdo dry valleys.

The McMurdo dry valleys are located in Antarctica. The McMurdo dry valley consists of the coldest and driest and most nutritionally deprived soil in the world. It is important to understand the ecosystem in these particular valleys because the types of organisms that live there are called extrmophiles. Extrmophiles are small almost microscopic organisms that live in the harshest environments known to man. Extrmophiles live in the harshest environments because they thrive and are able to reproduce with the high temperatures. If the temperature goes up the organisms are likely to die because their bodies are used to the extreme heat and pressure in their habitat and ecosystem.

SLIME is known to many ecologists as an abbreviation for subsurface litho autotrophic microbial ecosystems. A SLIME community is mostly fungi and bacteria, which occupy the pores of mineral grains of rock beneath the surface of the earth, how they survive; consist of them obtaining energy from inorganic chemicals. The reason many exobiologists find this to be important as well as fascinating is because, the idea makes it even more possible that there is life on other planets. The planet receiving the most questions because of SLIME is Mars. Scientists believe that Mars at one point held rivers and other large bodies of water the planet may also had time to evolve and have life on the planet. Scientists think that because of the cold temperatures on the planet; Mars the surface of the planet is made up of a thin layer of permafrost.

While studying an ecosystem knowing the many types will help a person to have a deeper understanding of the environment and the type of animals living in the particular ecosystem. Such as the McMurdo dry valley. Also knowing the SLIME community would help to better understand the type of ecosystems in the world. McMurdo Dry valley

marlok, assignment02, final draft

 By definition, an ecosystem is a system formed by the interaction of a community of organisms with their environment. To truly study ecology you need to have a good understanding of an ecosystem, and its biotic and abiotic components. There are hundreds of different ecosystems in the world today, and new ones are found almost daily. Scientists study ecosystems to gain greater knowledge of each organisms and their environment and how they all interact. Ecosystems can form virtually any where, as long as they have an energy source, which is usually the sun... But many ecosystems that get little or no energy from the sun are still found, such as the McMurdo Dry Valleys, the SLIME species survive in this ecosystem, not only do these ecosyetms survive in the extreme weather, they reproduce and form food webs and pass on energy.

    Wilson focuses on the McMurdo Dry Valleys in chapter one, located in Antarctica. Antarctica has the coldest and driest soil in the world, but yet a whole ecosystem of extremophiles are found there. These extremophiles are able to live and reproduce in these harsh environments and sustain temperatures that humans cannot. These microscopic bacterias continue to amaze scientists, including Wilson by their amazing abilities to survive in the harshest ecosystems in the world. Some extremophiles can also live in extreme heat, they're called thermophiles and live at the bottom of the ocean in hydrothermic vents. These worms live there, they form shells over themselves and slip in and out when their food comes by.  This adds to the theory that Wilson and other scientists have of life living every where on earth and other planets.

    SLIME is an abbreviation of subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems, which is made up of bacteria and fungi that live beneath rocks and get their energy from the inorganic chemicals found in the ground. This is leading scientists to believe that their could be life on other planets, most commonly thought of it being on Mars, Scientists believe that Mars once has rivers and water masses on it. The thought of water masses on Mars, leads people to believe that life was once on Mars. The theory of water being on Mars convinces Wilson and other scientists that life is possible any where including other planets.

    Ecosystems are essential to the study of ecology, and Wilson mentions many times in his text that they can form any where, no matter the conditions. As long as there is a source of energy, ecosystems and food webs can be produced. These ecosystems that can be any where are leading scientists to believe that life on other planets was once a reality. These theories are leading to more questions in ecology, and in the near future, more answers.

nadaE Foodweb parts 1+2

PART I
Hawk – 4^th level

Owl – 4^th level

Coyote – 3^rd level

Rat -1^st/2^nd/3^rd level

Raccoon – 1^st level

Mouse – 2^nd level

Birds – 2^nd level

Ducks – 2^nd level

Prarie Dog – 2^nd level

Herron – 1^st/2^nd level

Grasshopper - 1^st level

Snail – 1^st level

Fish – 1^st level

Clams – 1^st level

Shrimp -1^st level

Grass/Algae – producer

 

Part II

                If the rat magically disappeared, lower level organisms would predictably thrive. Since the rat consumes grasshoppers, dead animals, and some vegetation, it is a 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd level consumer. Scavengers like coyotes  and mice would have more food to themselves without the rats as competition. Higher level consumers, like the Hawks and Owls, would suffer greatly. Rats , smaller fowl and deceased organisms are their prime diet. In times of struggle, they would have to factor out rats, causing a small decline or plateau of their population numbers. Overall it is impossible to know for sure unless such an event occurs, but the basic prediction is that the lower level consumers and producers would thrive, whilist the higher level consumers would suffer.

nadaE Assignment03 Draft

                Ecosystems, or an interwoven community of organisms and their environment, are the fundamental classification of interactive areas in nature. A more simplified definition is given by Wilson, who states that an ecosystem ‘is a dynamic network of organisms, materials and energy’. Ecosystems are vital specimens to ecological scientists. Ecosystems demonstrate the interaction living organisms have with each other and their given resources. Ecosystems are easily identified, yet some, like the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica and SLIME communities are a littler harder to discover life with the naked eye.

                The McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica are vast, empty wastelands that stretch over parts over a freezing continent. While life on such a barren area seems impossible, the land is actually overflowing with life. Bacteria and other ‘extremophiles’ reside in the barren lands. Extremophiles are organisms that live under excruciating conditions; like extreme heat or cold. These organisms live off water that melts from the glaciers during the summer, and thrive in the low temperatures and lack of nutritional resources from it’s home environment.

                The second ecosystem Wilson discusses are the SLIME communities. SLIME stands for ‘subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems’ and refers to rock-dwelling bacteria and fungi. These bacteria and fungi live in the pores of rock under the surface of earth and live off of inorganic resources. SLIME organisms are microscopic and can live under the earth’s surface up to two miles.

                Overall, the earth supports  thousands of ecosystems, some of which are harder to find than others. They are all filled with life and cycle energy around the world and continue to sustain life. The studies preformed by thousands of scientists are continuing to uncover more and more about ecosystems, and more about the world itself.

KatieG, Assignment 03, Draft

   An ecosystem, according to Wilson, is a dynamic network of organisms, materials, and energy. It is a community of species that interact with each other and their environment by consuming, being consumed, competing and cooperating with other species. Of the three classification levels of biodiversity, ecosystems are at the top. They can be areas such as rainforests, coral reefs, or lakes and include biotic as well as abiotic factors. However, ecosystems can also exist in places that one would not normally associate with life.

   One such example of a less obvious ecosystem is the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica. To the naked eye the area is a barren wasteland. With the aid of a microscope, however, it is teeming with life. The organisms there, dubbed extremophiles for their adaptations that allow them to live at the edge of biological tolerance, include twenty species of photosynthetic bacteria, a variety of single celled algae, and microscopic invertebrate animals that feed on these primary producers. Considering how dry the valleys are these organisms depend on the summer flow of glacial icefield meltwater. Sometimes, due to changing stream patterns the organism must wait years or centuries for water.

   Another unusual ecosystem is that of the SLIMEs or subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems. These are communities of bacteria and fungi in pores occupying the interlocking mineral grains of igneous rock beneath Earth’s surface. They are able to survive at depths of two miles and more and obtain their energy from inorganic materials.  These ecosystems are independent of life on earth’s surface.

   Although there are many different types of ecosystems, typical and not, they all support life. Ecosystems, as Wilson relates, are dynamic networks of organisms, materials and energy. This can apply to our own backyards of the dry valleys of Antarctica.       

CaraM assignment 3 draft

An ecosystem is a habitat where some form of life can exist, even under harsh conditions such as 600F temperature. These types of organisms are called extremophiles, which are organisms that can only live in the extreme climates of intense heat or intense cold weather. Pyrolobus fumarii, for example, can only thrive between the temperatures of 235F to 194F.  

    An example of a habitat that has harsh weather conditions is the McMurdo dry valley, which is located in Antarctica, is a host for extremophiles. The soil there cold and dry that people would think that nothing could live. However, when looking at the soil with a microscope, scientists were able to find photosynthesizing bacteria that were thriving. Another example of an extremophiles are SLIMEs. SLIMEs are an assembly of bacteria and fungi. They are more independent than the creature on the surface and do not rely on our main source of energy, the sun. They usually live two or more miles below the surface of the earth and use inorganic materials to obtain energy

The research in this topic has heightened the interest in exobiology, or the study of future life in the universe. Because of the discovery of the SLIMEs, there has been a discussion on whether there could be life on different planets, only living under the surface like the SLIMEs. These recent discoveries in the McMurdo dry valley and the SLIMEs do make a strong argument that there could be life on planets that even have harshest conditions.

FeliciaF, Assignment 03, draft

    Chapter 1 “The Ends of the Earth”, Wilson describes extreme ecosystems of the world. An ecosystem is the total make up of all the living and non-living elements in an area. Wilson is not talking about any old back yards woods, these are places where we would not believe that organisms could live and survive. Some examples include the hydrothermal vents, volcanoes in Hawaii, Dry valley ECT.

    An ecosystem besides including the ordinary things like plants and animals, it is every abiotic and biotic element to a habitat or specific area. This incorporates food, housing, predators, competitors, human activity and especial in these cases the climate and weather conditions. Extremophiles are the life that exists in the most improbable place and happen to be new to biology. These tend to be bacterium. So they depend specifically on the climate conditions, whether they need extreme cold or extreme heat it is a very specific condition to pertain to the certain bacterium.  

     An example that E.O Wilson talks about is the SLIME ecosystem. This acronym stands for subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystem.  So all we need to know is right in its name; it’s an extremely microscopic bacterium that lives below earth’s surface and makes its own food. The major significance of studying SLIME is the thought that life could exist on other planets. Because of the factor that the SLIME ecosystem lives two to three miles below the earth’s surface, its only energy source is directly from earth’s rock.

    Another extreme ecosystem that has the same issue as SLIME, the issue of no light. Is the McMurdo Dry Valleys. When an organism has no light source for a certain amount of time the organism become dormant, The Dry Valleys have no light for six months out of the year. Also the area is made up of frozen lakes; all organisms that live in this extreme condition live under the surface of the frozen water. These organism feed off of the salt from the water, which are called halophiles.

    This chapter shows the reader the unusual ecosystems and how they can be studied. Wilson is trying to teach the reader that an ecosystem is not what we all think it is and never the ordinary. Each system is pertained for a certain organism to live comfortably, or their individual way of comfort.

ClaireC, Assignment 03, Draft

Ecosystems are extremely vital areas in our world. An ecosystem can be defined as a combination of all biotic and abiotic factors in a specific area. Whereas a biosphere is all of the regions of the earth that support living organisms. Many scientists study ecosystems vigorously so that they can understand better how organisms thrive and live in these areas. In chapter one of The Future of Life Wilson talks about many ecosystems, but namely the McMurdo Dry Valleys.

            The McMurdo Dry Valleys are located in Antarctica. It’s soils are the coldest, driest, and most nutritionally deficient in the world. Though one would think there would be no life existent in this area, it is actually the complete opposite. Organisms called extremophiles, which are organisms that live in extreme and hard conditions, inhabit the McMurdo Dry Valleys. These extremophiles live under glaciers where virtually no sunlight or oxygen can pass through.  They depend on carbon dioxide, phosphates, and other nutrients that work from the ocean below.

            SLIMEs are sub surface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems. SLIMEs can be defined as unique assemblages of bacteria and fungi that occupy pores in the mineral grains of igneous rock beneath the Earth’s surface. SLIMEs obtain their energy from inorganic chemicals These SLIMEs are also completely independent of life on the surface of the Earth because they do not need their energy from sunlight. SLIMEs are very significant because they give rise to there being a possibility of life on other planets, namely Mars. Scientists believe that because it has been proven that there is water on Mars, at one time up to five hundred meters, that there is a possibility that extremophiles made this planet their home.

            Ecosystems can form pretty much everywhere. Wilson even says that it’s possible that there could be “tiny spider-like mites build nests at the base of your eyelashes”. Ecosystems are vital to our environment and Wilson stressed how they are influential and his book “The Future of Life” teaches us how we need to preserve them because they make up so much of our world.

NinaF, Assignment 03, Draft 1

 

   An ecosystem is a network of organisms, materials, and energy. One ecosystem is linked not only to other ecosystems but to the entire biosphere according to scientist James E. Lovelock in 1972. There are different types of ecosystems. A type of ecosystems mentioned is SLIMEs (sub-surface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems). These ecosystems contain bacteria and fungi that live in pores of interlocking mineral grains of igneous rock below the surface. They are independent of life on the surface. That is an example that ecosystems are not always large areas filled with many different types of organisms. They can simply be a set of organisms living in one area. The McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica are an example as well. At first glance it appears to be a plain uninhabited area but there are populations of microscopic organisms. They are extremophiles, organisms that live in extreme conditions. This ecosystem fits the overall definition of an ecosystem: a network of organisms, materials, and energy. Though it is not seen by the naked eye, there is a group of organisms living off what little the Dry Valleys have to offer. The SLIMEs and the McMurdo Dry Valleys are only a few examples of populations that are hidden. Scientists are using these examples towards the idea that there may be life on other planets, life that we cannot see.

MarloK, Assignment3, Draft1

    By definition, an ecosystem is a system formed by the interaction of a community of organisms with their environment. To truly study ecology you need to have a good understanding of an ecosystem, and its biotic and abiotic components. There are hundreds of different ecosystems in the world today, and new ones are found almost daily. Scientists study ecosystems to gain greater knowledge of each organisms and their environment and how they all interact. Ecosystems can form virtually any where, as long as they have an energy source, which is usually the sun... But many ecosystems that get little or no energy from the sun are still found, such as the McMurdo Dry Valleys, the SLIME species survive in this ecosystem.

    Wilson focuses on the McMurdo Dry Valleys in chapter one, located in Antarctica. Antarctica has the coldest and driest soil in the world, but yet a whole ecosystem of extremophiles are found there. These extremophiles are able to live and reproduce in these harsh environments and sustain temperatures that humans cannot. These microscopic bacterias continue to amaze scientists, including Wilson by their amazing abilities to survive in the harshest ecosystems in the world.

    SLIME is an abbreviation of subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems, which is made up of bacteria and fungi that live beneath rocks and get their energy from the inorganic chemicals found in the ground. This is leading scientists to believe that their could be life on other planets, most commonly thought of it being on Mars, Scientists believe that Mars once has rivers and water masses on it. The thought of water masses on Mars, leads people to believe that life was once on Mars.

    Ecosystems are essential to the study of ecology, and Wilson mentions many times in his text that they can form any where, no matter the conditions. These ecosystems that can be any where are leading scientists to believe that life on other planets was once a reality. These theories are leading to more questions in ecology, and in the near future, more answers.

EdnaG,Assignment 03, First Draft

E.O Wilson, along with other naturalists, ecologists, and systematists thrive on gaining knowledge from the natural world on Earth.  Every inch of planetary surface is included in Gaia, James E Lovelock's nickname for the biosphere. Recently reaching what had been deemed as "the ends of the earth" has been made possible, thanks to scientific advancement and political compromises. Ecosystems such as  the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica and  SLIME communities have been accessible for to scientists for their studies. Making it so virtually almost all of the biosphere, the complex sum of all biotic and abiotic factors of all of Earth's ecosystems become their classroom. Unique physical and biological components that decide the environment of a specific area, are called ecosystems. So while each has its own deciding factors, and are studied individually they are interdependent as parts of the biosphere.

Antarctica, which is thought of as the last frontier on earth is where the McMurdo Dry Valleys are found. They are rank high among ecosystems that are studied, and for good reason. The geographical set up of these valleys allows for the coldest, driest, and most nutritionally land found on Earth, closely resembling Mars. So although it takes a microscope to see them species are found here. These microscopic species are mostly bacteria and algae, whose populations and life cycles vary depending on the summer length and temperature resulting in melting ice.These species who survive under some of the harshest conditions known to man are called extremophiles. They are the biotic factors in this ecosystem, and are wonderful examples of how abiotic factors interact with biotic ones.

Similarly SLIME communities are also amazing examples of the relationship between the components of an ecosystem. SLIMEs (subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems) are relatively new to the scientific world, although their existence is believed to be much,much older. They are ecosystems that are under the surface of the Earth where species of bacteria and fungi live in the pores of interlocking mineral grains of igneous rock. They are so far below that sunlight, thought at one time to be the only source of energy for autotrophs, never reaches them. The required energy to sustain life is obtained by inorganic chemicals. Virtually independent of life in all other ecosystems, but still part of the biosphere makes this ecosystem and its abiotic and biotic factors truly remarkable.

These amazing ecosystems, the McMurdo Dry Valleys and SLIMEs are focused on by Wilson. The reason being that he has a desire to share not just the facts but the significance these ecosystems.hold. While details are fascinating by themselves alone, the main point he is pushes is that these ecosystems, and even ecosystems that are not so extreme are sources of great knowledge, knowledge that may be wiped away if humanity ignores its duty. This knowledge is defiantly being proven to be a necessity as the species shown emphasize humans own fragile state. 

Gillianm, assignment 03, draft 1

An ecosystem is a biosphere where biotic and abiotic organisms can sustain life.  A biosphere is any part of the world that is able to support life.  Some scientists think of the whole Earth as one big biosphere that is thought of as a "superorganism".  THis superorganism is also known as Gaia.  Ecosystems can be found everywhere on Earth even in the most unlikely places.  When most people think of ecosystems, they think of areas like oceans and parks, where the organisms living there are large enough to see with the naked eye. However, areas like volcanoes and extremely hot hydrothermic vents are able to sustain life too.  These organisms that are able to live under harsh conditions are called extremophiles.  Extremophiles have adapted to living under intense conditions that other organisms could not, but in the same respect the extremophiles would not be able to survive under what we consider normal conditions. 

One specific area that is home to extremophiles is the McMurdow Dry Valley in Antarctica.  This valley is extremely cold, dry, and has barely any nutrients in its soil.  Even though it seems like the area would not be able to support any type of life, scientists have discovered bacteria living within the soil and fossils of animals that once lived there.  The McMurdow dry valley is similar to the surface of Mars, which is the major planet that scientists have studied to see if life was once present on other planets.  The discovery of life within the valley gives hope to scientists that there is a big possibility that there could have been life on mars at some point. 

A SLIME ecosystem is an ecosystem that is home to small organisms that live underground, and generally get their energy from the rocks that they live in.  Even if all other life on Earth died off, these organisms would be able to live on.  The SLIME ecosystems are also of great importance to scientists studying the possibility of life on other planets because, some believe that there may be SLIME ecosystems present deep within the surface of Mars.

The scientists who study these ecosystems are usually called either ecologists or systematisists.  Ecologists tend to focus on the classification of one specific species while, systematisists focus more on the classification of species as a unit.  Both do important work and rely on the information the other group has gathered in order to fully gather their own information.   

GabriellaM, assignment 3, first draft

            An ecosystem is an area of the environment consisting of biotic and abiotic species. Ecosystems can be formed virtually anywhere, as long as there is a stable energy source that can be maintained. Surprisingly, not all ecosystems are in the presence of the most commonly known energy source: the sun. In fact many ecosystems have hardly any sun exposure at all. But, for the majority of the time, ecosystems with scarce or no sun exposure or have very extreme weather contain organisms which are known as extremophiles, or species whom adapt to live on the brim of biological tolerance. But, these species are usually not seen by the naked eye.

    Extremophiles typically consist of bacteria. More specifically, they are: Bacteria which are traditional microbes, Archaea which are the other microbes, and Eukarya which are the single celled protozoans. Bacteria and archaea are found on the sides of volcanoes and around the area of hydrothermal vents. An example of bacteria found in water close to or above boiling point is Pyrolobus fumarii. These bacterium are hyperthermophiles, or dwellers of extreme heat. Another extreme bacteria are the Deinococcus radiodurans, which are adapted to radioactive activity. These bacterium can live through a nuclear explosion. These bacterium have the ability to withhold through these circumstances because they are able to repair broken DNA while humans are unable to repair damages to it.

    These microbes are also capable of space travel. Besides these superbugs, evidence of SLIMEs (subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems) have been apparent on Mars. SLIMEs are similar to superbugs, but they live under dry rocks or surfaces. Also like the superbugs, they are unable to be seen without a microscope. SLIMEs are very significant for the advances of microbiology because they are proof in guiding microbiologists that there is possible life on other planets.

    In the McMurdo Dry Valley of Antartica, to gaze at the dry and malnourished soil can send chills up your spine. To look around and see no sign of human activity or animal activity is a freezing thought, literally. The McMurdo Dry Valley is the most frigid and nutrient deficient valley in the world. By the naked eye you see no organisms, but in actuality there are organisms everywhere, known as the extremophiles.

    Ecosystems can be established virtually anywhere. In the most extreme places, it is possible. By standing in an empty, dry, and freezing valley we cannot witness any activity, but if we look a little closer, it is covered in microbial action by SLIMEs and superbugs alike. 

Image from the Montery Bay Aquarium

CaitlinD, Assignment 03, Draft

Ecosystems are the main, and essential studies of Ecology. Defined as a system which is formed by the interactions of a community of abiotic, and biotic organisms with their surroundings and environments. By studying ecosystems as a whole, scientists gain much more knowledge of the actions of organisms, and get an insight of their lifestyles.

Wilson describes several types of ecosystems in this chapter, and mainly focuses on The McMurdo dry valleys. These valleys are located in Antarctica, and is known as one of the coldest places on earth and the soil extremely lacks nutrition. Wilson states in the text that in order to have an ecosystem, you need to have " a domain of life". The reason, and main attraction of the frigid McMurdo dry valleys, is because in these barren valleys, scientists have discovered living organisms residing in these valleys. These organisms are classified as extremophiles; defined as organisms who live in the harshest environments that exist on earth. They are able to thrive, survive, and most importantly, reproduce in these harsh climates and conditions. Although the only extremophiles that have been discovered are microscopic bacteria, they are exceptional and extraordinary organisms which fascinate scientists and ecologists all over the world.

One of the biggest research projects of the 21st century has been conducted in outer space, preferably on Mars. Ecologists have been working to help the studies of the scientists of Nasa with their study called SLIME. This abbreviation stands for, subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems. These communities referred to as SLIME primarily, and mainly consist of fungi and bacteria. These organisms thrive in the pores of mineral grains on rock under the surface of the earth. These organisms get their nutrition and survive by using the energy from the inorganic chemicals located in the rock. The connection of the SLIME communities and Mars is the fact that these organisms give more evidence and reasoning to believe that life exists on other planets.  Scientists believe that Mars once had bodies of water which led to having living organisms.

    Ecosystems are essential parts of the study of ecology because of the vast information they provide. All organisms react to their environments differently and by studying these organisms in their habitats, scientists can distinguish different types of classifications. By studying in rare or extreme environments, scientists also discover new and astonishing organisms, or extremophiles, that lead to many questions, answers, and possibly discovery of life on other planets.

 

DanielleQ, Assignment03, First Draft

    An ecosystem is a rather complicated item to explain. According to definition it is a combination of all the biotic and abiotic in a habitant. The McMurdo dry valley at first glances contains no living organisms, but at one point might have according to the skeleton of a Weddell seal. It would be simply to say that there is nothing there, or rather there is nothing visible to the human eye. There is in fact millions of species of bacteria that make that same barren land their home under the frozen ground. The SLIMEs species simply adore ability to spend their time in and under the rocks of the dry valley.

    The ecosystem of the McMurdo reveals that there are species that are no longer bound to a certain land due to dependence on the organic materials there.  It also reveals that there are species who can outlive the limitations of the human body.  The Pyrolobus fumarii can live in the ocean at a temperature of two hundred thirty-five Fahrenheit while the Deinococcus radiodurans can survive getting up close and personal with vast amounts of radiation.  The SLIMEs are one of the few species that can make use of a rock during the extremely frigid temperatures of the McMurdo dry valleys, while the Pyrolobus fumarii can make use of the scalding hot water of the ocean. Under normal limitations a normal human would have been dead long before they could make use out any of these. All of this effort proves that an ecosystem can thrive in a habit that lacks organic materials and are able to out do the human specials when it comes to the survival of its kind.

BetsyO Assignment 03 draft

When studying Ecology it is important to understand what an ecosystem consists of, such as food and the type of animals living in the ecosystem. A definition of an ecosystem is a system formed by the interactions of a community of organisms with their environment. While studying an ecosystem it is important to know what a SLIME community is and what it consists of, and to learn the importance of the McMurdo dry valleys.

Wilson describes all types of ecosystems he states that to be able to have a functioning ecosystem you need to have the domain of life, stated "…Biologists now recognize three domains of life on the basis of DNA sequences and cell structure. They are bacteria… The archea… and the Eukarya, which include the single celled protists or "protozoans," the fungi, and all of the animals, including us"(Wilson5). What Wilson is trying to tell us is that if a species is a single cell organism it is still considered to have its own ecosystem. Wilson also describes the most studied ecosystem today, which are the McMurdo dry valleys.

The McMurdo dry valleys are located in Antarctica. The McMurdo dry valley consists of the coldest and driest and most nutritionally deprived soil in the world. It is important to understand the ecosystem in these particular valleys because the types of organisms that live there are called extrmophiles. Extrmophiles are small almost microscopic organisms that live in the harshest environments known to man. Extrmophiles live in the harshest environments because they thrive and are able to reproduce with the high temperatures. If the temperature goes up the organisms are likely to die because their bodies are used to the extreme heat and pressure in their habitat and ecosystem.

SLIME is known to many ecologists as an abbreviation for subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems. A SLIME community is mostly fungi and bacteria, which occupy the pores of mineral grains of rock beneath the surface of the earth, how they survive, consist of them obtaining energy from inorganic chemicals. The reason many exobiologists find this to be important as well as fascinating is because, the idea makes it even more possible that there is life on other planets. The planet receiving the most questions because of SLIME is Mars. Scientists believe that Mars at one point held rivers and other large bodies of water the planet may also had time to evolve and have life on the planet. Scientists think that because of the cold temperatures on the planet; Mars the surface of the planet is made up of a thin layer of permafrost.

While studying an ecosystem knowing the many types will help a person to have a deeper understanding of the environment and the type of animals living in the particular ecosystem. Such as the McMurdo dry valley. Also knowing the SLIME community would help to better understand the type of ecosystems in the world.

Assignment 03 First Draft LovingI.

  An ecosystem is a system formed by the interaction of a community of organisms with their environment. Many of these ecosystems exist on earth today comprised of a variety of many unique and different species.  There are numerous ecosystems that are being studied today and new organisms discovered all the time. These ecosystems contain organisms such as bacteria that make up a large number of diverse species in existence today.

  One example of a unique ecosystem is the McMurdo dry valley. It consists of twenty species of photosynthetic bacteria and a variety of tiny invertebrate animals that feed on these primary producers. This complex ecosystem includes fungi, mites, four species of nematode worms, rotifers, and bear animalcules. These species are labeled as extremophiles which are species that adapt to live in very harsh conditions.

  Wilson mentions the three domains of life on the basis of DNA sequence & cell structure which are the bacteria. Bacteria exists in many ecosystems & are recognized as microbes such as the Archae, the other microbes, & the Eukarya  which include protozaons or single celled bacteria, the fungi, & all animals including humans.

  Another unique system of bacteria is SLIMES which stands for subsurface litho autotrophic microbial ecosystems that contain unique assemblages of bacteria & fungi that occupy pores in the combined mineral grains of igneous rock beneath Earth’s surface. SLIMEs obtain their energy from inorganic chemicals and are totally independent of life on the surface. Wilson says that SLIMES exist on extraterrestrial planets such as Mars. Water that once existed on the Martian surface was enough to attract these bacteria so that they could inhabit its surface.

  Lake Vostok is another ecosystem unique in its on nature as it is thought to be sterile, but still contains organisms. When the glacial ice of this environment was drilled, it revealed a variety of bacteria and fungi from the hidden water.

  In the reading, Wilson discusses how the distribution of life has revealed several fundamental patterns in the way species are arranged in ecosystems the first being that bacteria & archaens are everywhere there is life of any kind. Second, even in the smallest space tiny protists and invertebrates invade and prey on microbes and one another. And finally third, the largest diversity of life occurs in habitats with yearly solar energy, varied terrain, climatic stability & exposure of ice-free terrain. Ecosystems according to Wilson are linked to other existing ecosystems. British scientists James E. Lovelock said that ecosystems are tied to the entire biosphere which is a singular entity he referred to as Gaia.

  Ecosystems exist all over the planet earth in many varieties and entities. These ecosystems are studied by some of the greatest ecologists and systematists today. More and more organisms are being revealed in our environment. With continued studies, these ecosystems will continue to be exposed to the world and our knowledge of these new discoveries of ecosystems will be known.

 

(McMurdo Dry Valley)

 

 

 

CaraM Food Web Assignment

Organism	Role
Grass	Producer
Aquatic Plants	Producer
Insects -grasshopper -snail	First level consumers
Fish	Fist level consumers
Aquatic life -oysters -shrimp	First level consumers
Pelicans	Second level consumer
Ducks	Second level consumers
Mice	First, second level consumers
Chipmunks	First, second level consumers
Sparrows	First, second level consumers
Rat	First, second, third level consumers
Raccoon	First level consumers
Owl	Second, third level consumer
Coyote	Second, third level consumer
Hawk	Third, fourth level consumer

 

Part 1  

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part 2

Every organism in an ecosystem is very important to the survival of other organisms in the same habitat. For example if one was to take the rat out of its habitat, it would affect the other organisms. The grass the rat eats will increase as well as the insects that the rat eats. But unfortunately, for the rat’s competitors, their population will decrease because the rat’s predators will still need to eat. Therefore the rat’s predators’, such as the hawk and owl, population will remain the same. Therefore, as one can see the impact the rat (or any organism) has on its ecosystem.

 

BetsyO Food Web

Part I

Grass-Producer

Snail-Primary Consumer

Insects-Primary Consumer

Mole-Second level consumer

Swan-Second Level consumer

Rat-Third Level Consumer

Duck-Third Level Consumer

Raccoon-First Level

Bird-Second Level Consumer

Mouse-First Second and third Level consumer

Wolf-Third and Fourth Level consumer

Owl-Third and Fourth Level consumer

Eagle- Third and Fourth Level consumer

Part II

All of the organisms in an ecosystem play an important role in the lives of other organisms for example the rat. The rat eats insects along with small animals. Larger animals such as the owl, eagle and a wolf also eat the rat. Let’s say the entire rat ecosystem disappears, a disease kills them all off, then the entire ecosystem will be affected. The animals, the rat eats, as a source of energy will begin to multiply. The animals will be able to reproduce and have no fear of being eaten because their main predator is gone. However this could have a terrible outcome on other animals if their main predator is able to grow and reproduce more quickly, then the animals that are hunted will begin to die and soon that species will be cleared out. Every species needs to eat so when one species is extinct many more species will follow.

FeliciaF, Food Web

Part I – Classify each organism

1)   Under water plants – primary producers

2)   Above ground plants – primary producers

3)   Snail – first level consumers

4)   Fish – first and second level consumers

5)   Clam – first level consumers

6)   Shrimp – second level consumers

7)   Grasshopper – first level consumers

8)   Seagulls – second level consumers

9)   Duck -  first, second and third level consumers

10)   Birds – third level consumers

11)   Otter - second level consumers

12)   Mouse – second level consumers

13)   Raccoon – first level consumers

14)   Rat – first, second and fourth level consumers

15)   Owl – second and fourth level consumers

16)   Eagle – third and fourth level consumers

17)   Coyote – second and third level consumers

 

Part II – Paragraph

    Here one sees in the food web that the central organism is the rat. A rat plays many roles in the web, it is actually a first, second and fourth level consumer. Rats eat above ground plants, birds and grasshoppers or insects, a little bit of everything which makes them have such a strong presence. So what would happen if all rats disappeared? Some organisms would be effected positively and some negatively by this change in the ecosystem. For example if the eagle had no more rats to eat it would eat more of the coyote and mice, so their population would decrease. But on the flip side if there were no more rats than they would not be eating the birds, insects or above ground plants. These three would go through a population increase.Especially the birds because the rat went after specifically the birds baby eggs, so there is no one to harm the eggs, more eggs would live to the full hatching stage, so the bird population would increase significantly. Even if other organisms eat these, they are still down by an organism that would eat them.  We see if the rat disappeared from the ecosystem there are two effects that would take place depending on what you as an organism were to the rat, whether you depended on it for food source or feared it and ran from it for protection. No matter what the organism is each holds a significant role, so if one is taken out of the ecosystem the system will have serious repercussions.

marlok, foodweb, draft01

Part 1: (Each animal is labeled with the numbers on the diagram)

0.    Grass/Weeds: Producers

1.    Oysters: First Level Consumer

2.    Shrimp: Second Level Consumer

3.    Fish: First Level Consumer

4.    Snail: First Level Consumer

5.    Grasshopper: First, Second Level Consumer

6.    Pelican: Second Level Consumer

7.    Ducks: First, Second Level Consumer

8.    Chipmunk: Second, Third Level Consumer

9.    Mouse: First, Second Level Consumer

10. Sparrow Bird: First, Second Level Consumer

11. Raccoon: First Level Consumer

12. Rat: First, Second, Third Level Consumer

13. Coyote: Second, Third Level Consumer

14. Hawk: Second, Third, Fourth Level Consumer

15. Owl: Third Level Consumer

 

Part 2: Eliminate Rat

Personally, I hate rats, they a gross ugly little, well technically big animals. But in this ecosystem, if the rat is eliminated, many of the animals will be affected. The rat is food for the hawk, so if the rat were to disappear, the population of hawks may decrease because some of their food source is gone. But the hawk has other food sources, so it possibly may not decrease too much. The rat is also a first level consumer, so if it were to disappear there may be more grass that can be consumed by the other animals like the snails, fish, and oysters. With those animals having more food their population will increase, with a threat of overpopulating. The rat also eats the grasshopper, leaving grasshopper population increasing because their main predator is eliminated, leaving more food for the chipmunks, mouse, and coyotes, which could then leave to those animal’s populations to increase/ overpopulate. The rat also eats the sparrows and their eggs; the sparrow doesn’t have many other predators besides the hawk. With the rat eliminated the sparrow’s population would definitely increase a lot, and it could possibly overpopulate. Although I personally find rats to be gross animals, if they are eliminated from the ecosystem, many species are affected. Some animals will decrease because they now have no food, and others could increase because their predator is eliminated, and possibly overpopulate. Each species in an ecosystem, no matter how big or small have a very important role in their ecosystem, and if their requirements for that role are not fulfilled, the ecosystem will face great consequences.

CaitlinD, Assignment 02, Final Draft

In the prologue of The Future of Life, by E.O. Wilson, comparisons are made between Wilson, Thoreau, and Darwin. In the text, Wilson describes a subtle personal connection, and a large connection of theories of the three scientists. Both Darwin and Thoreau contributed to the studies of Wilson today. Their theories and studies were the foundations of Wilson's career as a naturalist. The connection between all three of these brilliant scientists, show the importance of change of theories and ideas, and that advancement in technology helps further along studies that could not be completed before. All three men were influential forces in trying to spread education about the natural world and the human race's duty to protect and care for it.

    When Wilson first brings up the studies of Darwin, he states, "I know more than Darwin knew." Which is true. Wilson has many technological advances that Darwin had no access to in his day. These three men all show the progression and advancements in the scientific world. For example,Darwin's theory on evolution, the idea that organisms change over time in order to adapt to their natural surroundings and fulfill their needs. In the text, Wilson mentions how studying at Walden Pond effects him personally, because he was so motivated and inspired by Thoreau's works and studies there. Wilson also mentions Darwin's grandchild, which also shows a personal relationship between the scientists, and even though they never met, the are personally, intellectually, respectfully connected to one another. and Although,at first, Darwin's theory was rejected by many, after years of discussion, people started to believe this theory may be true and began to accept it. Thoreau, strongly influenced by Darwin's theory of evolution, spent the majority of his time studying the natural world and it's organisms at Walden Pond. Thoreau applied the studies of Darwin to his own life, and lived a life of solitude, and continued his studies at Walden Pond always reflecting back to Darwin's theories and ideas. After Thoreau died, Wilson continued on where Thoreau left off. He began to look closely at the Walden Pond area and discovered its significance in the environmental movement. Wilson used his technological advances and took parts of what Darwin and Thoreau proposed and used them in his own theories and ideas. The connection between all three men is clearly shown in their work. Without the studies of Darwin and Thoreau, Wilson's work and studies would have been completely different.

    The hard work that both Darwin and Thoreau put into their successful studies strongly impacted the work of Wilson as a naturalist. Their advances in their days were stepping stones for Wilson. The information and ideas the two men brought fourth were the foundation of Wilson's studies. All three men discovered important evidence and facts that some how affected one another down the line. All their theories and ideas are strongly connected, and reflect the advancements of the world, and the advancement in not only technology, but education.

EdnaG, Assignment 02, Final Draft

Today's scientists are more knowledgeable than those who lived many years before them, yet these "primeval" scientists were essential to their development. All of their achievements, and their failures composed the stepping stones the path that has equipped modern scientists to become successful. What might have begun as a fleeting thought of a naturalist a hundred years ago may very well have evolved into entire areas of study and movements. E.O Wilson is one of these modern scientists and naturalist who has drawn inspiration and knowledge from his predecessors.

Undoubtedly Darwin, who lived throughout during the mid-1800's and came up with the theory of evolution is a major influence.  Although he came upon this theory during the mid 1800's, it was not widely accepted until the early and mid-1900's. Since then ideas streaming from his work have leaked into mainstream culture as values. For example, his ideas on natural selection brought about the concepts of "survival of the fittest" which has had a great influence on culture. The theory of evolution also stirred up religious controversy among different denominations.  Darwin's passion is evident in the manner that he made his choices to work and study the natural world. Pushing his scientific advancements onto another level was the manner in which is became part of not only the scientific or academic institutions, but all of society.

One of the first to become a supporter of Darwin in America was Henry Thoreau. Thoreau's work followed a similar path to Darwin's, as their scientific findings ventured into other realms. A difference being however that Thoreau did this purposefully. Thoreau was a writer, philosopher, and naturalist who chose to reach out to the world, sharing his wisdom. He retreated to the wilderness in Concord, MA to show that it is possible to survive without an excess of material possessions. It was in the woods of Walden that he studied nature and reach enlightenment. He came upon several realizations about human nature and  duty. One of his most famous pieces is Civil Disobedience, an essay on the duties of members of society in relation to their governments. The same concepts he uses to build the argument in that essay are woven throughout his other works, such as Walden, even though they were focused on his scientific findings. Thoreau's main message is that humans are naturally inclined to care for nature, and that it is necessary for the preservation of all life, including our own that we protect nature. This message reaches vast audiences once published and certainly had an impressive effect on society.

There is no doubt that Darwin and Thoreau influenced E.O Wilson when reading his personal letter to Thoreau. Wilson comments on how he had tea with a Darwin's great great granddaughter and how he marveled at the idea of how many generations had past, yet Darwin remained one of the greats. Although there was no distant relative of Thoreau's that Wilson could speak with he did have the chance to visit with an actor playing Thoreau at Walden. He was blissful as he spent time speaking with this "Neo-Thoreau", explaining things to him that neither the actor nor Thoreau would probably know themselves.  But both men provided  boosts in drive and access to then, new knowledge that that has grown over the past century. The choices they made resulted in a greater understanding of the natural world. What made these men great however was the manner in which things played out and that this work of theirs was able to reach mainstream culture and touch base with all peoples. What connects them the most is the manner in which they have, and in Wilson's case, will continue to serve as future connections between science and culture, and for the advancement of scientific study.

H.D. Thoreau        C.R. Darwin          E.O. Wilson

          

FeliciaF, Assignment 02, final

In ‘The Future of Life’ prologue E.O Wilson describes ideas of three scientists including himself. These are Charles Darwin, Henry Thoreau and Wilson. In this order each had an effect on each other leading down to Wilson. Besides the fact that they are all studied the same topic of nature ,they all posses historical and scientific connections as well. 

Starting off with Darwin and his theories, that consisted of evolution and survival of the fittest also the idea that life on earth evolved over a series of millions of years. Wilson as well as other biologists owe it to Darwin for these two points of information. These points played into Thoreau while we was living in complete solitude, testing his own theories as well as testing Darwin’s. While living at Walden Pond Thoreau wanted to find out the true importance of taking care of the environment and how we as the population have a significant role in this. Both Charles Darwin and Henry Thoreau had the same ideas of testing human limitations. These also had long term effects to the historical sense on how the world sees the environment around us. Lastly, E.O Wilson whom wanted to understand more and know the limitations of the world that humans live in. Thoreau may have not inspired Wilson in an academic sense but on a personal level, they both are connected through ants; one writing about ant wars the other studying the ant as a species.  Wilson wanted to achieve and have as great of an impact on the world as Thoreau and Darwin.

Each scientists have  had scientists before them , each builds on on an others' ideas. Thoreau and Darwin both collectively contributed to the professional development of Wilson, by giving him topics and ideas to question within himself and how he wanted to research them. We can see the scientific relationship between these three, but on the other hand they had an historical impact . The three wanted to let the population see the truths about the environment and how it came to be. 'The Future of Life' is written to be a continuing of the past and what our environment will look like as the years progress.

 

In ‘The Future of Life’ prologue E.O Wilson describes ideas of three scientists including himself. These are Charles Darwin, Henry Thoreau and Wilson. In this order each had an effect on each other leading down to Wilson. Besides the fact that they are all studied the same topic of nature ,they all posses historical and scientific connections as well. 

Starting off with Darwin and his theories, that consisted of evolution and survival of the fittest also the idea that life on earth evolved over a series of millions of years. Wilson as well as other biologists owe it to Darwin for these two points of information. These points played into Thoreau while we was living in complete solitude, testing his own theories as well as testing Darwin’s. While living at Walden Pond Thoreau wanted to find out the true importance of taking care of the environment and how we as the population have a significant role in this. Both Charles Darwin and Henry Thoreau had the same ideas of testing human limitations. These also had long term effects to the historical sense on how the world sees the environment around us. Lastly, E.O Wilson whom wanted to understand more and know the limitations of the world that humans live in. Thoreau may have not inspired Wilson in an academic sense but on a personal level, they both are connected through ants; one writing about ant wars the other studying the ant as a species.  Wilson wanted to achieve and have as great of an impact on the world as Thoreau and Darwin.

Each scientists have  had scientists before them , each builds on on an others' ideas. Thoreau and Darwin both collectively contributed to the professional development of Wilson, by giving him topics and ideas to question within himself and how he wanted to research them. We can see the scientific relationship between these three, but on the other hand they had an historical impact . The three wanted to let the population see the truths about the environment and how it came to be. 'The Future of Life' is written to be a continuing of the past and what our environment will look like as the years progress.