G1: Community Ecology

G.1.1 Outline the (abiotic) factors that affect the distribution of plant species--

Example: sand dune community Temperature & Water

Foredune—very hot in summer, little water▪ Grass adapted to conditions▪ Long roots find water; leaves can curl to save

water and resist heat Mature dune—much cooler, more moist▪ More species diversity▪ Example –“forest” floor--ferns (low light,

moist conditions)

G.1.1 Outline the (abiotic) factors that affect the distribution of plant species--

Light Grasses in high light▪ Thin leaves reduce water loss, withstand heat

Ferns – low light▪ Wide leaves capture the small amt light / shade

Soil pH pH varies among dune regions Yellow dune- soil pH 7.5 (grass here too,

thrives @ pH) Grey dune-decomposition of lots grasses,

soil more rich, more acidic (acid-loving heathers here)

G.1.1 Outline the (abiotic) factors that affect the distribution of plant species--

Salinity Foredunes get salt spray▪ Grasses can tolerate it

Grey dune less salty▪ Small shrubs, mosses, lichen

Mineral nutrients Grey dune – diversity of plants, older

region, has mineral content to support shrubs, etc.

Mature dune – way inland, lots of nutrient-rich soil, oldest region (soil building up 100s yrs), can support large trees (ash, birch, oak)

G.1.2 Explain the factors that affect the distribution of ANIMAL species, including

Example: Indiana Dunes, Lake Michigan Temperature

Animals adapted for hot/cold temps Sand wolf spider: foredune dweller,

extreme high temps—lives in deep burrow (behavioral adaptation)

Woodland spider: live in trees (shade, cooler)-mature dune

Water Water for eggs, aquatic animals for food Heron-catches fish/frogs, lives near water Woodpecker-eats insects in trees, lives in

mature dune

G.1.2 Explain the factors that affect the distribution of ANIMAL species, including

Breeding sites Nesting sites Protection from sun, wind; mature dune,

wetlands Habitat loss!

Food supply Generalists, specialists Raccoons, skunks, foxes-move to where

food is located; nocturnal Rabbits-burrows in foredune, near grass

(food) Territory

Packs of coyotes, scent to mark space May or may not overlap