From the fiercest predator to the lowliest plant, every member of an ecosystem is immeasurably important to the survival of their environment. Although they're not regarded as a keystone species, sea urchins play a pivotal role in maintaining healthy marine environments. Without sea urchins to consume algae, entire coral reef ecosystems could collapse. This educational text invites readers to imagine a world without sea urchins, delving into curricular science concepts, such as interdependence of species, with accessible language and real-world examples.
Sea otters are a keystone species in their environment. If they were to disappear, the ripple effect on the plants and animals in the ecosystem would be profound. Kelp forests absorb carbon dioxide. Sea urchins feed on kelp and can deplete these forests if they are not kept in check. Sea otters prey on sea urchins, helping to maintain healthy kelp forests and thus, a healthy ecosystem. This dynamic text engages readers in an educational dialogue, examining the role of sea otters, the threats they face, and possible solutions to protect this fundamental species.
Tigers are the largest wild cats in the world. Though they are apex predators, these powerful creatures are vanishing from Earth. Shrinking habitats and poaching have brought tigers to the brink of extinction, forcing us to consider: What would the world be like without tigers? Readers will be fascinated by this edifying text, which takes a hard look at what would happen if tigers were to disappear. With eye-catching photographs, accessible language, and curricular content, this book is a must-read for bourgeoning environmentalists and anyone who cares about animals.
When the sea otters disappear, why does their kelp forest habitat disappear, too? On the Pacific Coast of North America, sea otters play, dive, and hunt for sea urchins, crabs, abalone, and fish in the lush kelp forests beneath the waves. But there was a time when people hunted the otters almost to extinction. Without sea otters to eat them, an army of hungry sea urchins grew and destroyed entire kelp forests. Fish and other animals that depended on the kelp were lost, too. But when people protected the sea otters with new laws, their numbers began to recover, and so did the kelp forests. Susannah Buhrman-Deever offers a beautifully written account of a trophic cascade, which happens when the removal of a single element affects an entire habitat. Asides that dig deeper are woven throughout Matthew Trueman’s dynamic illustrations, starring a raft of charismatic sea otters. Back matter includes more information about sea otters and kelp forests, including their importance and current status, the effects of the international fur trade on indigenous peoples, and a list of books and websites for readers who wish to continue to explore.
"Captivating. . . . a full portrait of this adorable and ecologically important animal." —Publishers Weekly A science journalist travels the Pacific Coast in search of sea otters in this entertaining and inspiring book on the importance and history of this charismatic endangered species Sea otters—the adorable, furry marine mammals often seen floating on their backs holding hands—reveal the health of the coastal ecosystem along the Pacific Ocean. Once hunted for their prized fur in the 18th and 19th centuries, these animals nearly went extinct. Only now, nearly a century after hunting ceased, are populations showing stable growth in some places. Sea otters are a keystone species in coastal areas, feeding on sea urchins, clams, crab, and other crustaceans. When they are present, kelp beds are thick and healthy, providing homes for an array of sea life. When otters disappear, sea urchins take over, and the kelp disappears along with all the creatures that live in the beds. Now, thanks to their protected status, sea otters are making a comeback in California, Washington, and Alaska. In this hopeful book, science writer Todd McLeish embarks on an epic journey along the Pacific Coast—traveling from California to Alaska—to track the status, health, habits, personality, and viability of sea otters, and reveals how conservationists brought them back from the brink of extinction.
Discusses the ocean ecosystem and the role of the sea otter as a keystone species in helping to maintain it, describing the otter's place on the food chain and what would happen if the sea otter were to become extinct.
In a world brimming with striking landscapes, a silent menace lurks beneath the surface. Unbeknownst to many, deforestation has been stealthily paving its way through the heartland. This potent force, when coupled with mankind's insatiable need for progress, triggers a series of cataclysmic consequences. Brace yourself to embark on a journey that unravels the intricate relationship between deforestation, soil health, and erosion. Delve into the depths of this ecological conundrum as the narrative unfurls through captivating prose. The alluring forests that once told ancient tales now stand as remnants of a forgotten past, drastically transforming the planet's ecosystem. Realizing the gravity of this environmental plight, we sit at the edge of our metaphorical seats, eagerly awaiting the revelation of deforestation's impact on the delicate balance of soil health. The story continues as we explore the intricate ramifications of this destruction. Witness how the absence of towering trees unsettles the harmony within the soil ecosystem. Like a fragile web woven over generations, deforestation cuts through the threads of countless organisms, compromising the fertility and nourishment it once provided. Each passing day, it becomes evident that the choices we make in the pursuit of progress aren't solely temporal but possess everlasting consequences. A sense of urgency pervades through the chapters as we delve into the topic of erosion. As the stranglehold of deforestation persists, the illusion of stability crumbles relentlessly beneath our feet. Discover the devastating consequences of eroded soil as its ability to retain water weakens, consequently endangering the land's fertility and sustenance. The vivid anecdotes throughout serve as haunting reminders that the scars left behind are inextricably interconnected, demanding undivided attention. Step into the shoes of explorers, scientists, and environmental advocates who fearlessly embark on a mission to unmask truths hidden within the remnants of landscapes forever altered. This compendium intertwines riveting accounts with science-driven observations, steadily illuminating a narrative that is critical for the preservation of our shared future. Deforestation and Soil Erosion addresses the somber melodies that echo within the decimated forests, revealing the alarming impact on soil health and erosion. Through this captivating exploration, the suffocated voices of the trees finally reach our eager ears, crying for us to redefine our relationship with nature.
Unlock complex informational text through close reading. Use this book as a guide to teach close reading in a way that delves deeply into the text and aligns with the Common Core State Standards. Each standards-based lesson includes: * Complex informational text that is grade-level appropriate. * Text-dependent questions designed to facilitate discussion and provide differentiation for all students. * Thought capturers to help students organize their thoughts into writing. * Constructed response prompts, exemplars, and rubrics.
Threatened and endangered animals are found all over the world, in all different types of habitats. Readers celebrate the huge difference that caring people make for these animals while practicing subtraction skills. Each animal is presented through a clever rhyming verse and subtraction problem. Includes "For Creative Minds" section.
