Ecosystem Interdependence
Listen to the following lecture discussing the interconnectedness of various ecosystems:
Professor: Good morning, class! Today, we will explore the concept of ecosystem interdependence. Ecosystems, such as wetlands, forests, and grasslands, do not function in isolation. For instance, wetlands serve crucial roles in water filtration and flood control while also providing habitat for diverse species. These wetlands are often sustained by the health of surrounding ecosystems. Forests, on the other hand, play a significant role in oxygen production and carbon dioxide absorption, thus promoting cleaner air. Their impact extends beyond their boundaries, as they can influence local weather patterns, which affects rainfall in neighboring grasslands. The relationship between these ecosystems is further exemplified by migratory species that depend on multiple habitats for breeding and feeding. For today's session, I encourage you to think about the various ways these ecosystems benefit each other, and how damaging one can adversely affect the others. Let's dive deeper into specific examples of interdependence now.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.
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