Everything in life is connected. Whether individual organisms or whole populations, all things are connected by a flow of energy. This energy starts at the tiny microorganisms in the soil. They respirate, binding nutrients and facilitating the nutrient cycle in the soil. Nutrients are in turn absorbed by plant roots. The plants require these nutrients to grow and to photosynthesize. Growth does not only refer to the physical act of becoming larger – it also refers to reaching maturity, and reproduction. This is done by formation of flowers, pollination, seed formation and dispersal.
When flowers are in bloom, it attracts various insects and birds that feed on the nectar. This process assists with pollination, leading to the development of fruits and seeds. The fruits and seeds acts as a source of energy for a variety of animals, including rodents, birds and insects.
These small herbivores are preyed upon by larger carnivores and insectivores, and so the flow of energy continues. Birds of prey, reptiles and larger mammals all gain necessary resources from feeding on the smaller animals.
Eventually, even the mightiest predator’s reign comes to an end, and its physical body returns to the soil. As its body decomposes, the nutrients are utilized by the microorganisms.
And so the circle of life goes.
When flowers are in bloom, it attracts various insects and birds that feed on the nectar. This process assists with pollination, leading to the development of fruits and seeds. The fruits and seeds acts as a source of energy for a variety of animals, including rodents, birds and insects.
These small herbivores are preyed upon by larger carnivores and insectivores, and so the flow of energy continues. Birds of prey, reptiles and larger mammals all gain necessary resources from feeding on the smaller animals.
Eventually, even the mightiest predator’s reign comes to an end, and its physical body returns to the soil. As its body decomposes, the nutrients are utilized by the microorganisms.
And so the circle of life goes.