Tropical Rainforest Biome and Central American Rainforest Ecosystem
Pick a biome and ecosystem and create a 500-700 word essay addressing the following:
Refer to the infographic provided and chose a biome to describe with an example ecosystem.
Provide one example of a keystone species found in the biome/ecosystem. Why is this keystone species important to the biome/ecosystem? What defines it as a keystone species?
Provide an example of an invasive species found in the biome/ecosystem. What are some of the negative impacts this invasive species has on the ecosystem? What is being done to mitigate impacts?
Provide one example of an endangered species found in the biome/ecosystem. Briefly discuss the causes of the decline in the species and what is being done to help.
Please refer to the "Biomes and Ecosystems" infographic located in the topic Resources. Also include at least 3 academic sources and make sure all sources are cited in your essay.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
Biome and Ecosystem
Student's Name
College/University
Course
Professor's Name
Due Date
Tropical Rainforest biome.
Central American Rainforest ecosystem.
Apex Predator
Jaguar
Tertiary Consumers
Boa Constrictor
Margay
Spectacled Owl
Secondary Consumers
Howler Monkey
Kinkajou
Tarantula
Primary Consumers
Capybara
Agouti
Leafcutter Ants
Primary Producers
Trees (e.g., Kapok, Mahogany, Rubber)
Plants (e.g., Orchids, Ferns, Bromeliads)
Algae and Mosses
Primary Producers' Influence
In the Central American Rainforest ecosystem, the primary producers with the most substantial influence are the trees, specifically species like the Kapok tree. These towering rainforest trees serve as the structural backbone of the ecosystem. They provide critical habitat for numerous species, offering shelter and nesting sites. The extensive tree canopy also helps regulate the microclimate by providing shade, reducing temperature extremes, and maintaining humidity levels. In addition, trees also act as carbon sinks, therefore playing a vital role in carbon sequestration (Baumbach et al., 2023). The primary producers, particularly trees, profoundly impact this ecosystem by shaping its physical structure, supporting biodiversity, and contributing to climate regulation.
Role of the Apex Predator
The apex predator in the Central American Rainforest, represented by the jaguar, holds immense ecological importance. As the top predator in this ecosystem, jaguars play a pivotal role in regulating the populations of primary consumers, such as capybaras and agoutis. This predation pressure helps prevent overgrazing and herbivore-driven deforestation