By Colby S. (7th Grade)
How does predicted population growth compare to actual population growth?
- Answer:
- the predicted is much more because there ave a lot more limiting factors and possibilities reproductive ponteials
- there are chances like egg amount, gender etc.
Mono Lake Population Data Questions
1. When does the planktonic algae population peak? When does the brine shrimp population peak? What explanation do you have for the timing of each peak?
- Algae Peak: Late Winter / Early Spring (February–March).
- Brine Shrimp Peak: Early to Mid-Summer (June–July).
- Explanation: In late winter, brine shrimp populations are low, allowing algae to bloom without heavy grazing pressure. As spring transitions to summer, rising water temperatures cause brine shrimp eggs (cysts) to hatch. The expanding brine shrimp population feeds heavily on the algae, causing the algae population to drop while the brine shrimp population peaks.
2. What is the relationship between water temperature and the brine shrimp and brine flies in the Mono Lake ecosystem?
- Answer: Brine shrimp and brine flies thrive in warmer water, with active growth and hatching peaking around 14°C. As water temperatures rise in late spring and summer, population growth increases rapidly. Cold winter temperatures trigger dormancy, causing populations to drop.
3. When do the migratory birds arrive at Mono Lake?
- Answer: Migratory birds arrive in staggered waves between April and July. For example, California Gulls arrive earlier in spring (April) to nest, while Wilson’s Phalaropes and Eared Grebes arrive later in the summer (June–July).
4. Discuss the population graphs of the birds (gulls, phalaropes, and grebes).
- Answer: They came and left a t different times in the summer. The birds migrate at different times
5. What is the relationship between the birds and the other organisms in Mono Lake?
- Answer: Birds act as primary predators in the food web. They consume brine shrimp and brine flies to fuel their nesting and migration.
6. What do you think is going on with the populations at Mono Lake in April?
- Answer: April represents a major ecological transition. Water temperatures begin to rise, initiating the hatching of brine shrimp. Simultaneously, early migratory birds (like California Gulls) arrive, increasing predation pressure on the emerging brine shrimp and alkali flies.
(formatted with AI assistance)
