Download ecology poster

Unit 2 Ecology – Skim the unit and look at the cool pictures and charts
Terms to know: ecology, population, community(scientific definition), ecosystem, biotic, abiotic,
producers, consumers (primary, secondary, and tertiary), autotrophs, heterotrophs, food chain, food
web, ecological pyramid, carnivore, herbivore, decomposer, biomass, climate, niche, symbiosis,
ecological succession, density-dependent limiting factors, density-independent limiting factors,
predator-prey relationships, biodiversity, endangered species, and invasive species These terms may
appear on your final exam.
What will I do?
1. Choose and endangered or threatened species. You can find lists on line. Beware of the
charismatic mega fauna effect. This means that the big leaf mahogany plant deserves just as
much attention as the giant panda. This is an individual project.
2. You will make a collage (like a miniposter). Please make it interesting to look at.
3. The collage will contain the following information:
 The scientific and common name of the organism
 A likeness of the organism (drawing, magazine photo, downloaded picture, etc.)
 A list of three sources
 A map of the range of the organism
 The organism’s role in it’s food web
 How many are left?
 The ecology of the organism (how the organism interacts with it’s environment – it’s
niche!) This will be very different for each person. For example if you chose the giant
panda you would discuss the need for bamboo and large home ranges. If you chose the
big leaf mahogany again you might discuss soil needs. Much of your efforts will be
expended here.
 The human impact on the organism (both good and bad). This again will vary depending on
the species that you choose. For example if you choose Florida panthers you will discuss
habitat fragmentation and reproductive incapability. If you choose the beluga sturgeon
you will discuss over fishing for caviar.
 What are we doing to preserve/conserve the organism?
 Any specific biology of the organism directly related to it’s endangered status
Rubric:
 Project not done: minus two points form 4th quarter grade
 Project done – missing some parts, lacking sufficient details, messy, effort not clearly shown:
minus one point from 4th quarter grade
 Project done – no parts missing, lacking sufficient details, little effort shown: no points lost
or gained from 4th quarter grade
 Project done: no parts missing, effort clearly shown with details and creativity, miniposter is
aesthetically pleasing: one point added to 4th quarter grade
 Project done: no parts missing, exemplary effort shown with details and creativity,
miniposter is aethetically pleasing and looks professional: two points added to 4th quarter
grade
Due Date: ______________ no posters will be accepted after this – no exceptions