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WS4 Biology discussion questions

1 . When conclusions are induced from observing natural ecological processes , it is possible that the wrong conclusions are made , such as the once-believed notion that frogs originate from mud . When controlled experimentation occurs , results appear that are different from a control experiment . It is therefore possible to see the difference between what normally takes place ecologically and what results from adding a factor It is more conclusive and scientifically responsible to experiment rather than observe (Carter 2004

2 . One exotic species that has plagued the Northeast and Southern states is Japanese

Barberry , Berberis thunbergii DC . Its negative impact on its environment is choking out resources to other native plants , by taking soil moisture , nutrients , and sunlight for itself and outcompeting other nearby plants . It is also a problem due to its lack of natural animal predators - not many birds or other animals eat it Its impact could have been lessened by very strict regulation of its introduction and establishment , but once it had begun to proliferate action to eradicate the plant is necessary . Selective burning has been implemented in some states already (USDA

3 . The scientific method can be applied to ecological problems by recreating situations in the laboratory . If it is known that birds live in an area with high air pollution , birds can be tested for blood levels of the chemicals in the air , and therefore it is discovered how air pollution affects birds in that area . In scientific testing , replication of the experiment is necessary many times...

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