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Amazing Wildlife Ecology

What is a keystone species? Definition and four examples!

A keystone species is an organism that plays an exceptionally large role in its ecosystem. It provides materials or services that enrich the lives of other organisms in the ecosystem. Without the keystone species, the ecosystem would look very different and other organisms that rely on the keystone species would suffer. Now, let’s look at […]

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Botany Ecology

The Saguaro Cactus Life Cycle: step-by-step guide with pictures!

Some saguaro cacti live for 200 years or longer! Saguaros grow very slowly. The speed of growth depends on many factors such as precipitation, temperature, and soil quality. Let’s explore the saguaro cactus life cycle in five steps! Notice that desert animals play a key role in two of these steps. 1. Germination A seed […]

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Activity ideas Ecology

Bird Beaks Lab: try this hands-on classroom activity to learn about adaptations and natural selection!

This is a hilarious and hands-on way to experience competition between species and learn about natural selection and animal adaptations. In this post, you will learn how to set up your own bird beaks lab to try out in your classroom!

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Amazing Wildlife Botany Ecology

Desert Adaptations: 8 strategies plants and animals use to survive in the desert!

Life is possible with very little water! Desert plants and animals have some amazing adaptations to survive in dry conditions.

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Amazing Wildlife Ecology

Nocturnal, Diurnal, and Crepuscular Animals: differences explained, plus examples!

The change from daytime to nighttime in the desert creates a world of difference for animals. Wildlife biologists sort animals into three categories based on the time of day when they are most active: nocturnal, diurnal, and crepuscular.

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Amazing Wildlife Ecology

What are aquatic macroinvertebrates? Their role in food webs and use as bioindicators!

These tiny critters may seem unremarkable, or even β€œicky”. However, aquatic macroinvertebrates play important roles in aquatic ecosystems.

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Botany Ecology

What are the different types of pollination? How animal, water, and wind pollination methods work

You might already know that pollination is the transfer of pollen from the stamen (male flower part) to the carpel (female flower part) of a flowering plant. Once pollinated (via any of the pollination methods), the plant forms a fruit. Fruits contain seeds, which will grow into the next generation of plants. Read more about […]

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Activity ideas Ecology

What is Ecology? Learn why ecology is important + ecology activity ideas for kids

In this article, learn about ecosystems and ecology! Plus, you’ll learn the difference between biotic and abiotic. Also, read about why ecology is important and learn about what ecologists study! Click here to skip to the the list of Ecology Activity Ideas for Kids! Or, check out my food webs resources here! What is an […]