Question

Select the statements that accurately describe examples of small-scale ecosystems.

1. A tropical rainforest is an example of a small ecosystem.
2. An aquarium tank represents a confined, small-scale ecosystem.
3. A test tube experiment containing phytoplankton demonstrates a very small ecosystem.
4. Oceans are considered small ecosystems.

• A. 2 only
• B. All
• C. 2, 3
• D. 3 only

Answer 1

Answer:

C. 2, 3

• Small-scale ecosystems demonstrate that the fundamental principles of ecological interaction—such as energy flow, nutrient cycling, and community structure—can be observed and studied even in highly confined environments.

• These smaller systems are often used for experimental purposes due to their manageability and ability to isolate specific variables, allowing scientists to test hypotheses about ecological processes in a controlled setting.