Republic of the Philippines

ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

GEE 1201: PEOPLE AND EARTH’S ECOSYSTEMS

This learning module is tailored for Bachelor of Science in Information

Technology as their General Education Course for them to be informed of the impacts
of human activities to the environment and its consequences. The activities and outputs
required in this course are designed for independent learning as well as responsible use
of technology.
The learning outcomes are as follows:
At the end of the course, the students must have:
1. discovered ways on how human population influenced their environment
2. explored the scientific and political controversies of environmental issues and
solutions
3. learned how to critically analyze environmental issues to intellectually engage
with the community
4. developed their collaborative, creative thinking, critical thinking and
communication skills
5. demonstrated awareness on human impacts to the environment and initiated
programs and activities concerning solutions to the environmental issues or
problems.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

Concepts:

UNIT 1 HUMAN POPULATION and the BIODIVERSITY in the ECOSYSTEM

Lesson 1: Introduction to Human Population

 The most significant environmental problems on the earth today trace their
origins to the effects of the human population on the environment (Molles,
2013). The importance of studying ecology or the ecosystem is needed for the
learners to be familiar with history, current state, and projected growth of
human populations.

www.gettyimages.com (A) https://www.shutterstock.com (B)

******************************************************************

Activity 1.A

Directions:

1. Analyze the images above (A) and (B).

2. Describe the images in relation to human population through the following guide
questions:
a. What is your interpretation of the images?
b. How are you going to describe those images in relation to the current human
population and the people in general?
**********************************************************************************

Lesson 2: Human Population Dynamics

The human population trends are important or significant due to their vital role in
playing in determining the environmental impact of human activities. Rising population can be
attributed to certain parameters such as the demographic and dynamical factors of the

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

population. Birth and death rates, and to include migrants may trigger the dramatic expansion
of the population.

Population Distribution and Abundance

One of the most distinctive features of the human population is its distribution (Molles,
2013). The human species is virtually everywhere, occupying all the continents, including the
Arctic and Antarctic (North and South Pole) Regions by population of scientists and their
support staff. Some of them also inhabit most of the Oceanic islands.
Population Densities
The world population in 2025 is estimated to be 8,231,613,070 people and an estimated
increase of 0.85% from the previous year. According to the Population Reference Bureau (PRB),
the world’s population may swell up to 9.9 billion people by 2050. The planet today is estimated
to contain 7.6 billion people and could increase by 33% in 35 years from today (Garfield, L,
2024).
The population is highly concentrated in Asia (60.3%), in such countries such as China
and India. The Philippines estimated population is 117,734,094 people. The remainder of the
human population is spread across Africa (15%), Europe (10.6%), North Africa (6.7%), and
South and Central America and the Caribbean (6.9%). The remaining 0.5% live in Oceania
(Australia, New Zealand and scattered Oceanic Islands). Within continents, human population
attain their highest densities in eastern, southeastern and southern Asia. Other areas of high
population density include western and central Europe, northern and western Africa, and
northeastern and northwestern America.
Population distribution is how the people are spread out or distributed across the
regions of the world. It can be described through patterns or spatial arrangement such as
clumped, dense, scattered or sparse.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

Activity 1.B

Directions:

1. Study the image and concepts below.

2. Solve for the population density and population growth using the formula provided.

Population Density is the number of people living per unit area, usually expressed per
square kilometer or per square miles. Formula: Population Density=Total Population
Land Area
Population Growth refers to the increase in the number of individuals within a population
over a specific period of time. This growth results from the balance of births and deaths
(natural increase) and the net effect of migration (immigration minus emigration). When
the number of births and incoming individuals exceeds the number of deaths and those
leaving, the population grows (Encyclopedia Britannica).

Formulas:

1. Exponential Growth (Unlimited Resources) – when population grows without restrictions,

it follows exponential growth model:
P(t) = Poert

Where: P(t) = population at time t

Po = initial population

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

r = growth rate per unit time

e = Euler’s number (~2.718)

t = time

2. Logistics Growth (Limited Resources) – when resources are limited, growth slows down
as the population approaches a carrying capacity (K):

P(t) =_____K_________
1+(K-Po)e-rt
Po

Where: K = carrying capacity (maximum sustainable population)

Problem Solving:

Solve the sample problems below using the formulas above.

a. A city has 500,000 people and covers an area of 250 square kilometer.

b. A small town has a population of 500 people and grows at a rate of 10% per year. What
is the population of the small town after 5 years?

c. The population in a small barangay is 200 people. This small barangay has a maximum
carrying capacity of 1000 people and a population growth rate of 20% per year. What is
the population of this small barangay after 3 years?

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

Factors Affecting Population Distribution, Growth and Density

Activity 1.C

Coding Challenge

Directions: Create a simple Python program to visualize population growth in the Philippines
from 2025 to 2030 (5 years) with a 0.75% growth rate.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

Lesson 3: Biodiversity and Earth’s Ecosystem

Concepts: Introduction to Biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including plants, animals,

microorganisms, and the ecosystems they form. It is essential for maintaining balance in
nature.

Levels of Biodiversity

1. Genetic Diversity - the variety of genes within a species, allowing for adaptation and
evolution. It can be classified into different types based on the source and level of
genetic variation:
a. Intraspecific Genetic Diversity – variations in genes among individuals of the
same species e.g. different breed of dogs or variations in eye color
a.1 Polymorphism – presence of multiple forms of gene within a population
e.g. blood types in humans
a.2 Heterozygosity – individuals with different alleles for a particular gene,
increasing adaptability

b. Interspecific Genetic Diversity – genetic differences between different species

such as genetic variation between lions and tigers or wheat and corn

c. Functional Genetic Diversity – differences in genes that affect traits like

diseases resistance, reproduction and metabolism. Some crop varieties have

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

genes that make them drought-resistant. Helps in selective breeding,

conservation and improving species survival.

d. Ecological Genetic Diversity – genetic differences influenced by environmental

factors such as fish in warm water have different genes than a fish in cold water,
affecting size and metabolism.

e. Genetic Diversity from Mutations – new genetic variations arise from random
changes in DNA such as bacteria develop antibiotic resistance due to genetic
mutations

2. Species Diversity – the number of different species in an ecosystem and can be

classified into three main types:
a. Alpha Diversity (within the ecosystem) – the number of species within a
specific ecosystem or habitat such as a tropical rainforest, may have
hundreds of tree species, while the desert has fewer plant species.
b. Beta Diversity (between ecosystems) – the difference in species between two
or more ecosystems like comparing the species found in coral reefs versus a
mangrove forest.
c. Gamma Diversity (across a region) – the total species diversity a large
geographic region that includes multiple ecosystems. Example would be the
Amazon basin which includes rainforests, rivers and wetlands, has very high
gamma diversity
3. Ecosystem Diversity – the variety of ecosystems, including forests, oceans, wetlands
and deserts

Activity 1.D

Directions:

1. Draw one example for each of the three biodiversity levels.

2. Research one endangered species and explain how loss of biodiversity affects
ecosystems.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

Lesson 4: ECOSYSTEM – an ecosystem is a complex, dynamic system that includes all living
organisms (biotic factors) interacting with their non-living environment (abiotic factors) within a
specific area. These interactions involve the flow of energy, the cycling of nutrients, and the
exchange of materials between organisms and their surroundings, creating a balanced and self-
sustaining environment. Ecosystems can be natural or artificial. They vary in size, from small
ponds to vast biomes, and function through ecological processes, such as photosynthesis, food
chains, symbiosis and decomposition.

www.teachoo.com

Types of Ecosystems (Ecosystem Diversity)-can be divided into two main types: Natural and
Artificial or Man-made

Natural ecosystems are classified based on their environment:

A. Terrestrial Ecosystems:
1. Forests – high biodiversity, carbon storage, and oxygen production
Forest ecosystem is a biological community dominated by trees and other
vegetation, interacting with animals, microorganisms, and the physical environment.
Forests vary based on climate, geography, and species composition with several
types:
1.a Tropical Rainforest - located near the equator such as Amazon, Congo, and
Southeast Asia. Climate is warm, humid and high rainfall (over 2000mm annually).

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

With high biodiversity and dense vegetation, rich in epiphytes. Stores carbon,
regulates climate and provides medicinal plants.
1.b Temperate Forest – located in North America, Europe, East Asia with four
seasons and moderate rainfall (750-1500mm annually). There are distinct seasonal
changes, with animals like deer, bears, and owls adapt to seasons. Support the
timber industry, carbon storage and recreation.
1.b.1 Deciduous Forest – trees shed leaves in autumn (e.g. oak, maple)
1.b.2 Coniferous Forest – evergreen trees (e.g. pine, fir)

1.c Boreal Forest (Taiga) – located in Canada, Russia, Scandinavia. The climate is
cold in winter, short summers and low precipitation. Dominated by coniferous trees
(spruce, pine, fir) with acidic soil and low biodiversity compared to rainforests. Home to
moose, lynx, wolves and migratory birds. May store large amounts of carbon in
permafrost and soil.

1.d Mangrove Forest – located in coastal tropical and subtropical regions such as
Southeast Asia, Africa, Florida. The climate is warm, the coastal environments with
saltwater influence. Salt-tolerant trees with stilt-like roots, mangrove trees protect the
shorelines from erosion and storms, act as nursery for marine species like fish and
crabs.

1.e Montane (Cloud) Forest – located in high-altitude regions such as the Andes,
Himalayas and Central Africa. The climate is cool, misty and has a high rainfall due to
frequent cloud covers that keeps the forest moist. Rich in mosses, ferns and orchids and
supports unique species such as mountain gorillas. Help in regulating freshwater sources
for rivers and communities.

1.f Mediterranean Forest – located in the Mediterranean Basin, California,

Australia. The climate is hot, with dry summers and mild, wet winters. Has fire-adapted
vegetation such as oak, pine and shrubs. Home to animals such as foxes, lynxes and
eagles. Trees in Mediterranean forests prevent soil erosion and supports biodiversity
despite dry conditions.

2. Grasslands – dominated by grasses, supporting herbivores like bison and zebras.

They are classified into two main types:
2.a Tropical Grasslands or Savana Grasslands – located in Africa (Serengeti),
South America, India and Australia with a climate that is warm year-round with
distinct wet and dry seasons. Has scattered trees and shrubs (e.g. acacia,
baobab), supports herbivores like zebras and elephants, and predators such as

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

lions and cheetahs. Frequent wildfires help maintain open grasslands. Savana
grasslands support biodiversity and serves as grazing land for wildlife and
livestock.
2.b Temperate Grasslands – located in North America (prairies), South America
(pampas), Eurasia (steppes), South Africa (veld). The climate is hot in summer,
and cold in winters with moderate rainfall. Has few or no trees, dominated by tall
and short grasses with rich, fertile soil ideal for agriculture. Home to bison,
prairie dogs, wolves and birds of prey. It is a major agricultural zone for crops
like wheat or corn.
2.c Flooded Grasslands (Wet Grasslands) – located in Brazil (Pantanal), Botswana
( Okavango Delta), USA (Everglades). The climate is wet with seasonal flooding
and dry periods. Mix of grasses, reeds and aquatic plants, habitat for waterbirds
such as storks and herons, fish and amphibians. May support unique species
such as jaguars, hippos and crocodiles. Main function is to filter water, prevent
flooding and provide habitat for wildlife.
2.d Montane (Alpine) Grasslands – located in high-altitude regions such as the
Tibetan Plateau, Andes and Himalayas. The climate is cold, windy and has low
oxygen levels. The grasses are short and tough with small shrubs. May support
mountain animals such as yaks, snow leopards and marmots. The soil is thin and
vulnerable to erosion. Provide grazing land for livestock and serves as a water
source for rivers
3. Deserts – low precipitation, extreme temperatures, and adapted organisms.
Types of Deserts:
3.a Hot and Dry Deserts – located in Africa (Sahara and Kalahari), Middle East
(Arabian), North America (Navajo). The climate is extremely hot during the day and
cold at night due to lack of moisture with very low rainfall. Characteristic features
are sand dunes, rocky plateau and dry riverbeds, with sparse vegetation such as
cacti, acacia trees and drought-resistant shrubs. Animals include camels, lizards,
scorpions and desert foxes. Rich in mineral sources such as oil, salt and gold.
Supports nomadic cultures and wildlife.
3.b Cold Deserts – located in Mongolia and China (Gobi Desert), USA (Great
Basin), Argentina (Patagonian Desert). The climate is cold winters with snow fall,
summers are warm and mild with low precipitation, mostly snow. The terrain is rocky
and gravelly with some sand dunes, sparse vegetation like shrubs, mosses and
lichens. Animals include wild horses, snow, leopards and foxes. Supports unique
cold-adapted species. May serve as an important migration route of some animals.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

3.c Coastal Deserts – located in Chile (Atacama), Africa (Namib Desert), South
America (Peruvian Desert). The climate is cool and foggy with minimal rainfall with
ocean currents preventing the formation of clouds thus keeping the area dry. It has
fog-dependent vegetation (e.g lichens, succulents), with sand dunes and rocky
terrain. The animals are foxes, beetles and small rodents rely on moisture from fog.
The Atacama is one of the driest places on earth with no record of rainfall.
3.d Semi-Arid Deserts – located in USA and Mexico (Sonora Desert), South Africa
(Karoo), Middle East (Iranian Desert). Semi-arid deserts have more rainfall than
other deserts (250-500 mm per year). The summers are hot and cool winters. Have
more plant life than hot deserts such as small trees and thorny shrubs.Support more
animal species including deer, jackals and birds. The soil is richer, making some
areas suitable for agriculture, limited farming and livestock grazing. However, some
semi-arid deserts are turning into true deserts due to desertification.
4. Tundras – cold, with limited vegetation and permafrost. There are three main types:
4.a Arctic Tundra – located in the Northern Hemisphere (Alaska, Canada, Russia,
Greenland, Scandinavia) with extremely cold winters and cool short summers,
low precipitation , permafrost prevents deep-rooted plants. Mostly low-growing
plants like mosses, lichens, shrubs and grasses. Animals such as Polar bears,
Arctic foxes, caribou, reindeer, snowy owls and lemmings, with thick furs, fat
storage and migration to survive harsh conditions.
4.b Alpine Tundra – located in high-altitude mountain regions such as the
Himalayas, Andes, Rocky Mountains, Alps. The climate is cold the whole year
round, with strong winds and low oxygen levels, has more precipitation than
Arctic Tundra such as rain and snow. No permafrost because the soil thaws in
summer. The vegetation consists of grasses, small shrubs, mosses and hardy
wildflowers. Animals such as mountain goats, snow leopards, marmots, pikas
and eagles have thick furs, short limbs to retain heat and hibernation in winter.
The Alpine tundra regulates freshwater supply.
4.c Antarctic Tundra – located in the Coastal areas of Antarctica and sub-
Antarctic Islands of South Georgia, Kerguelen islands. The climate is cold, even
colder than the Arctic tundra, with strong winds and minimal precipitation
(mostly snow). No permafrost but permanently frozen land. Vegetation are
mostly mosses, liverworts and algae (no trees). Animals may be penguins, seals,
seabirds such as albatross. Marine life thrives in surrounding waters such as krill
and whales. Plays a role in the global climate regulation and ocean currents.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

B. Aquatic Ecosystems:
1. Freshwater Ecosystems – bodies of water with less than 1% salinity such as lakes,
rivers and wetlands, home to fish and amphibians. They are classified into three
main types:
1.a Lentic Ecosystems (still water) – freshwater bodies with still or slow-moving
water such as lakes, ponds and wetlands.
1.b Lotic Ecosystems (flowing water) – freshwater bodies with continuous
movement such as rivers, streams, brooks and creeks
1.c Groundwater Ecosystems – freshwater found beneath the earth’s surface in
aquifers and underground rivers such as aquifers, springs, cave water
ecosystems

2. Marine Ecosystems – oceans, coral reefs and estuaries. They are saltwater
environments that cover about 71% the earth’s surface and support diverse marine life.
The main types of marine ecosystems include:

2.a Pelagic (Oceanic) Ecosystems – the open ocean beyond the continental shelf,
where marine life is distributed at different depths or zones:

2.a.1 Epipelagic Zone (sunlight zone) – top layer or 0-200m; supports

plankton, fish and large predators like sharks

2.a.2 Mesopelagic Zone (twilight zone) – 200-1000m; home to

bioluminescent organisms like lanternfish

2.a.3 Bathypelagic Zone (midnight zone) – 1000-4000m; includes deep-

sea creatures like anglerfish

2.a.4 Abyssopelagic and Hadal Zones – 4000+m; extreme depths, home

to unique species like giant squid

2.b Coastal Ecosystems - shallow marine areas near the coast, influenced by
tides and human activities. Examples are:

2.b.1 Estuaries – where freshwater meets the sea; nurseries for fish and
shrimps

2.b.2 Salt Marshes – coastal wetlands dominated by salt-tolerant plants,

help prevent erosion.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

2.b.3 Mangrove Forests – tropical coastal forests with salt-tolerant trees;

protect shorelines from storms and support rich biodiversity.

2.c Coral Reef Ecosystem – shallow-water ecosystems built by coral polyps, often
called the “rainforests of the sea”. Examples are:
2.c.1 Fringing reefs – close to shore, directly attached to the coastline .
2.c.2 Barrier reefs – separated from the shore by a lagoon (e.g. Great
Barrier Reef)
2.c.3 Atolls – ring-shaped reefs surrounding a central lagoon

2.d Deep-sea Ecosystem – extreme-depth environments with no sunlight, high

pressure, and cold temperatures. Examples are:

2.d.1 Hydrothermal Vents – deep-sea volcanic areas emitting hot,

mineral-rich water, supporting unique life forms like giant tube worms.

2.d 2 Cold seeps – areas where methane or hydrogen sulfide seeps from
the ocean floor, supporting deep-sea organisms

2.e. Polar Marine Ecosystem – cold-water ecosystems in the Arctic and Antarctic
Ocean, dominated by iced-covered seas. Examples are:

2.e.1 Arctic Ocean Ecosystem – home to polar bears, walruses, and Arctic
fish.

2.e.2 Southern Ocean Ecosystem (Antarctica) – supports penguins, krill

and whales.

2.f Seagrass Meadow Ecosystem – coastal areas with underwater seagrass beds
that provide habitat for marine animals. Found in shallow waters of the
Caribbean, Mediterranean and Australia. Supports species like sea turtles,
dugongs and small fish.

C. Human-Modified Ecosystem Diversity - altered by human activities that still support

biodiversity. The types are:

1. Agricultural Landscapes – such as farms, pastures and orchards

2. Urban Green Spaces – such as parks, gardens, green roofs
3. Artificial Wetlands – such as man-made lakes, rice paddies

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

Components of Ecosystem

Ecosystems have two main components: Abiotic and Biotic. Each of these components
play a crucial role in maintaining balance within the ecosystem.
1. Biotic Components or the Living Things – these include all living organisms
that interact within the ecosystem consisting of the following:
a. Producers or Autotrophs – plants, algae and some bacteria that
produce their own food through the process of photosynthesis or
chemosynthesis.
b. Consumers or Heterotrophs – organisms that consume other
organisms for energy.
b.1 Primary Consumers or Herbivores – consume plant life for energy,
e.g. deer, rabbits
b.2 Secondary Consumers or Carnivores – organisms that consume
herbivores e.g. snakes, foxes
b.3 Tertiary/Quaternary Consumers – top predators or apex predators
that consume carnivores e.g. eagles, sharks
c. Decomposers and Detritivores – bacteria, fungi, and scavengers break
down dead organisms and recycle nutrients e.g. earthworms, vultures
2. Abiotic Components or the Non-livings Things – these are the physical and
chemical factors that affect the ecosystem. Consists of the following:
a. Sunlight – provides energy for photosynthesis
b. Water – essential for all living organisms
c. Air – oxygen and carbon dioxide, needed for respiration and
photosynthesis
d. Soil and Minerals – provide nutrients to plants
e. Temperature and Climate – affects the survival and distribution of
organisms.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

Ecological Processes

Ecological processes are the natural interactions and functions that maintain balance in
an ecosystem. These processes include energy flow, trophic levels and nutrient cycling.
Population dynamics is also one of the ecological processes discussed in lesson 1.

Trophic Levels in the Ecosystem

Trophic levels represent the different positions that organisms occupy in a food chain,
based on their source of energy. Energy flows from one trophic level to the next, but significant
amount is lost as heat at each step.

Types of Trophic Structure

1. Food Chains – a simple, linear representation of energy flow

e.g.

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ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

2. Food Web- a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem. More

realistic, as most organisms eat more than one type of food.
e.g.

3. Ecological Pyramids – there are three types of ecological pyramids

a. Pyramid of Energy – shows energy flow and loss at each trophic level.
b. Pyramid of Biomass – represents total dry weight of organisms at each level
c. Pyramid of Numbers – depicts the number of organisms at each level

Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycling

Energy flow in the ecosystems – energy enters an ecosystem primarily from the sun and
moves through different organisms in a one-way path.
The First Law of Thermodynamics – states that “energy cannot be created nor
destroyed, only transformed from one form to another”. The solar energy is converted to
chemical energy by plants through photosynthesis Herbivores eat plants, converting
chemical energy into kinetic energy (movement) and heat Carnivores eat herbivores,

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

transferring stored energy up to the food chain Decomposers break down dead organisms,
recycling nutrients and energy.
The Second Law of Thermodynamics states that “when energy is transformed, some of
it is lost as heat, increasing entropy (disorder)”
Application in Ecosystems:
1. Energy transfer between trophic levels is inefficient; only ~10% of energy is
passed on, while 90% is lost as heat.
2. This is why food chains are limited to 4-5 trophic levels, higher levels do not
receive enough energy.
3. Decomposers help recycle nutrients, but energy flow is one-way (not
recycled).

Stages of Energy Flow

1. Solar Energy Absorption:
a. Plants (producers) capture solar energy through photosynthesis
converting it into chemical energy (glucose).
b. Only about 1-2% of the sun’s energy is captured by plants.
2. Transfer of Energy Through Trophic Levels:
a. Primary Consumers (Herbivores) eat plants and obtain stored energy.
b. Secondary Consumers (Carnivores) eat herbivores and get energy
c. Tertiary Consumers (Apex Predators) eat secondary consumers.
d. Decomposers (Bacteria, Fungi, and Detritivores) break down dead
organisms and releases nutrients back into the environment
3. Energy Loss in the System:
a. At each step, energy is lost as heat due to respiration and metabolic
activities.
b. Only about 10% of energy is passed from one trophic level to the
next or the 10% rule.

Activity 1.E

Direction: Solve for the energy available in every trophic level.

Problem: In a grassland ecosystem, the primary producers (grass) have 50,000J

(Joules) of energy. Calculate the energy available at each trophic up to the
tertiary consumer. Show your solution and draw a conclusion.

Energy flow is a one-way path, requiring a constant input from the sun to sustain life.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

Nutrient Cycling or Biogeochemical Cycles

Nutrient cycling ensures the continuous supply of essential elements like carbon,
nitrogen and phosphorus.

Major Nutrient Cycles

1. Carbon Cycle – carbon moves between the atmosphere, living
organisms and the earth; plants absorb carbon dioxide during
photosynthesis and convert it into organic matter. Animals
consume plants and release carbon dioxide through respiration.
Decomposers break down dead organisms, returning carbon to
the soil and air. Human activities 9e.g. burning fossil fuels,
deforestation) increase to carbon dioxide levels, leading change.

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19 | P a g e
 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

2. Nitrogen Cycle – nitrogen is essential for proteins and DNA.

Atmospheric nitrogen (N2) is converted into usable forms through
nitrogen fixation by bacteria. Plants absorb nitrogen from the soil;
animals obtain nitrogen by eating plants. Decomposers return
nitrogen to the soil and denitrifying bacteria release N2 back into
the atmosphere.

3. Phosphorus Cycle – phosphorus comes from rocks and is released

into soil and water. Plants absorb phosphorus, and it moves
through the food chain. Decomposers recycle phosphorus back
into the soil. Unlike carbon and nitrogen, phosphorus does not
cycle through the atmosphere.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

4. Water Cycle – water moves through evaporation, condensation,

precipitation and runoff. Plants absorb water through roots and
release it via transpiration. Groundwater and surface water sustain
ecosystems.

Activity 1.F

Directions:
1. Design an infographic summarizing key details from these following topics (choose
one topic only): types of ecosystem, energy pyramids/trophic levels, nutrient
cycling.
2. Use icons, charts or illustrations to make information visually appealing.
3. Share your infographic in any social media (FB, Instagram, X, etc.)
4. Print out the screenshot for submission.

NOTE: ALL ACTIVITIES WILL BE WRITTEN ON A YELLOW PAD OR PRINTED IN

A LONG/SHORT/A4 SIZE BOND PAPER, WHICH EVER IS APPLICABLE.
SUBMISSION WILL BE MADE THROUGH YOUR CLASS PRESIDENT ON OR
BEFORE MARCH 11, 2025 (ONE DAY BEFORE THE MIDTERM EXAMINATION).

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21 | P a g e
 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

REFERENCES

Books

Odum, E.P., and Barrett,G.W.(2005). Fundamentals of Ecology (5th ed.)Brooks/Cole.

Molles, M.C., and Sher, A.(2018).Ecology:Concepts and Applications (7th ed.).McGraw-Hill.

Krohne, D.T. (2012). General Ecology (2nd ed.) Cengage.

Web Sources

National Geographic. (2023). Energy Flow in Ecosystems.

https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/energyflow

REFERENCES

Audesirk, T. and Audesirk G. Biology: Life on Earth. 5th ed. Macmillan Publishing Company, Inc.,1993.

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

Bernardo, M.E. and Cruz, V. Hands and Minds on Activities for Biology. Innovative Educational
Materials, Inc.

Capco, C. Biology. Phoenix Publishing House, Inc. 1994.

Miller, K. and Levine, J. Biology. Pearson Education South Asia Pte Ltd.

Rabago, L. M., Joaquin, C. C., & Lagunzad, C. G. B. (2006). Functional Biology: Modular Approach. Vibal
Publishing House., Inc.

Velasquez, M. (2020, May 4). DNA. Mr. Velasquez. Retrieved January 18, 2021, from
https://standbehindbraum.weebly.com/3-dna.html

Villamil and Salandanan. Science and Technology. Phoenix Publishing House

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 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

jaa Integrity . Social Justice . Discipline . Academic Excellence

24 | P a g e
 Republic of the Philippines
ILOILO STATE UNIVERSITY OF FISHERIES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Main Campus-Poblacion Site
Ilaya Poblacion, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo | email: [email protected]
website: www.isufst.edu.ph | Contact No: 09667486692

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