The Rainforest Ecosystem

What You'll Learn

Organisms in an ecosystem depend on each other. Producers make food, consumers eat other organisms, and decomposers break down dead material to recycle nutrients.

Key Words

pollination
photosynthesis
vertebrate

Materials Needed

water
plastic wrap
ruler

Safety First

Keep small objects away from young children.
Work in a well-ventilated area when using vinegar or other strong-smelling substances.
Dispose of materials properly after the experiment.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read the introduction and identify the main idea of this lesson.

Step 2 — Do

Create a detailed food web for a local ecosystem. Include at least 8 organisms and use arrows to show energy flow from producers to top predators.

Step 3 — Observe

Look for patterns in your observations.

Step 4 — Record

Make a graph or chart showing your results.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is the role of fungi in an ecosystem?