Producers, Consumers, and Decomposers

What You'll Learn

Wetlands like marshes and swamps filter water, prevent flooding, and provide habitat for many species. They are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth.

Key Words

food chain
producer

Materials Needed

soil
cups
water
plastic wrap
ruler

Safety First

Tie back long hair before starting the experiment.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Study the diagram and label the parts you recognize.

Step 2 — Do

Compare the skeletal structures of a bird wing, human arm, and whale flipper using diagrams. Identify homologous bones and write what this tells us about common ancestry.

Step 3 — Observe

Watch carefully for any changes and note the time.

Step 4 — Record

Create a data table to organize your measurements.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What happens to energy as it moves up a food chain?