Science·Ocean Life·conceptual
Predator Loss and Ecosystem Effects
Quantify energy transfer efficiency through trophic levels (~10% rule); explain trophic cascades: how removing an apex predator triggers a chain of ecosystem changes (sea otters → sea urchin explosion → kelp forest collapse); define 'fishing down the food web'; evaluate evidence for ocean rewilding — shark reintroduction, whale recovery driving nutrient cycling; understand why ecosystem-based fisheries management is needed
Suggested ages 12–14
Evidence of understanding
No evidence statements are recorded.
Assessment prompt
Can Predator Loss and Ecosystem Effects trace the chain of events that happened to Pacific kelp forests when sea otters were hunted almost to extinction — what domino effect did removing one species set off through the whole ecosystem?
Standards alignment
No external standards are linked to this topic.