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Questions and Answers
What is the main ecological role of sea otters?
Southern sea otters are no longer endangered.
False
What event in the early twentieth century helped the southern sea otter population recover?
Protection by international treaty in 1911
Lionfish are native to the ______ Ocean.
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What is one consequence of lionfish being introduced into the Atlantic Ocean?
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The population of lionfish is decreasing in the Caribbean.
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How do sea otters contribute to the health of their ecosystem?
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Match the following species with their respective population status:
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Study Notes
Sea Otter Population
- Southern sea otters, once ranging from Baja California to Alaska, were nearly eradicated by fur hunters in the 18th century.
- Protected since 1911, their numbers have increased but they remain endangered due to their limited habitat along the California coast.
- A significant oil spill could lead to their extinction.
- Sea otters are keystone species, vital for maintaining kelp forest ecosystems by controlling sea urchin populations.
Lionfish Population
- Lionfish, native to the tropical Pacific Ocean, are aggressively invading the Atlantic Ocean, including areas around Florida, the Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico.
- They prey on at least 70 species of native fish, posing a significant threat to the ecosystem.
- The reasons for their rapid spread and increasing numbers are under investigation.
- Fisheries and biologists are concerned about the ecological impact and are exploring control methods.
Population Dynamics Concepts (Inferred from Context)
- The examples highlight contrasting population trends: recovery (sea otters) and invasive expansion (lionfish).
- Both cases emphasize the importance of understanding population dynamics for conservation and management.
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Description
Explore the population dynamics of the endangered Southern sea otter and the invasive lionfish. Understand their ecological impacts, threats to their survival, and the importance of these species in their habitats. This quiz dives into the details of conservation efforts and invasive species management.
