A large forest has been removed by clear-cutting and the land has not been replanted. After several years, humidity in the area seems to have decreased. The few plants that are present in the area are growing more slowly than would be expected based on the lack of competition. How can the knowledge of the water cycle be used to interpret these observations?
Answer
In mountainous regions of western United States, there is interest in reintroducing large mammlian predators that were previously driven out of the area. For these projects to work, the predator population must have enough wild food so they will not be tempted to prey on livestock. What type of data would you need concerning the food web and pyramids in order to successfully reintroduce a predator?
Answer
