APA Style Research Paper: This Assignment You Will

3-page APA style research paper ln this assignment, you will investigate the biotic and abiotic structure and function of an ecosystem

In this assignment, you will write a 3-page, APA-style research paper focusing on a specific ecosystem. The paper should include a detailed description of the ecosystem’s location and a specific example, an examination of its structure including at least three abiotic and three biotic components, and an explanation of its ecological functions. You will also define and describe the biogeochemical cycle, using the carbon cycle as an example, outlining its steps.

Furthermore, the paper should discuss examples of disturbances to the ecosystem, including one natural and one human-caused disturbance, detailing the damage caused and alterations to abiotic and biotic characteristics. You are asked to identify two natural resources provided by the ecosystem and explore how these can be sustainably managed for future use. Additionally, describe how humans can act as responsible stewards to aid in ecosystem recovery, providing at least one specific example related to your chosen ecosystem.

Paper For Above instruction

The selected ecosystem for this research is the coral reef ecosystem, renowned for its rich biodiversity and ecological significance. Coral reefs are primarily located in tropical and subtropical ocean waters, forming in shallow continental shelf areas where sunlight penetrates, fostering the growth of photosynthetic organisms. An example of a vibrant coral reef system is the Great Barrier Reef located off the coast of Queensland, Australia. This vast marine habitat stretches over 2,300 kilometers and supports an incredible diversity of marine life.

The structure of a coral reef ecosystem comprises both biotic and abiotic components. Abiotic factors include sunlight, temperature, and salt concentration, which influence the reef’s health and the organisms that inhabit it. Biotic components encompass various marine species such as corals (as the foundation species), fish like clownfish and parrotfish, and invertebrates such as sea stars and mollusks. These organisms form complex interactions and build the habitat structure that characterizes reefs.

The primary function of coral reef ecosystems involves supporting biodiversity, serving as breeding and nursery grounds for many marine species, and providing coastal protection. These ecosystems sustain fisheries, support tourism, and contribute to the global carbon cycle. Speaking of biogeochemical cycles, a biogeochemical cycle refers to the movement of elements and compounds through living organisms and the physical environment, facilitating nutrient recycling essential for life. The carbon cycle illustrates this process through various steps: carbon fixation by photosynthetic algae and corals, transfer through food webs, and eventual release back into the atmosphere via respiration and decomposition. This cycle maintains carbon balance within the ecosystem and influences global climate patterns.

Coral reefs face numerous disturbances. A natural disturbance example is a cyclone, which can physically damage reef structures and displace or kill marine life, leading to a temporary reduction in biodiversity and altered abiotic conditions like increased sedimentation. Conversely, a human-caused disturbance includes coral bleaching driven by elevated sea temperatures and ocean acidification resulting from increased CO2 emissions. Bleaching causes corals to expel their symbiotic algae, leading to weakened health, decreased reproductive capacity, and potentially, mortality. Both disturbances significantly alter biotic interactions and abiotic conditions, impairing the reef’s resilience and recovery potential.

The ecosystem supplies various natural resources, with two prominent examples being calcium carbonate for building materials and marine-derived pharmaceuticals. To ensure sustainability, methods such as establishing marine protected areas, regulating fishing, and reducing carbon footprints are vital. Humans can foster recovery by minimizing pollutants, such as runoff containing chemicals and sediments, and supporting coral restoration projects involving coral gardening and artificial reefs.

One specific example of human stewardship involves the Coral Restoration Foundation, which undertakes coral gardening and transplantation efforts aimed at restoring degraded reef sections on the Florida Reef Tract. These initiatives demonstrate active human intervention to bolster natural recovery processes and promote resilience in coral ecosystems. Such strategies are essential in ensuring that coral reefs can continue providing ecological, economic, and protective services in the future.

References

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• Moberg, F., & Folke, C. (1999). Ecological goods and services of coral reef ecosystems. Ecological Economics, 29(2), 215–233.
• Ruiz, J., et al. (2001). The role of coral reefs in shoreline protection and their contribution to coastal resilience. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 62(2), 321–328.
• Sheppard, C., et al. (2008). Reefs at Risk Revisited. World Resources Institute.
• Shlesinger, Y., et al. (2008). The impact of climate change and human activity on the resilience of coral reefs. Marine Biology, 154(2), 251–263.
• Riegl, B., & Bruckner, A. W. (2005). Coral reefs of the Gulf of Aqaba: Diversity, distribution, and threats. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 294, 1–17.
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• Wilkinson, C. (2008). Status of coral reefs of the world: 2008. Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network and Reef and Rainforest Research Centre.
• Young, C. M., et al. (2014). Ecosystem services of reefs and their recovery after disturbance. Ecological Applications, 24(4), 988–999.