An Experimental Forest Ecosystem Is Enclosed in a Sealed Greenhouse

question 29

Multiple Choice

An experimental forest ecosystem is enclosed in a sealed greenhouse.The entire ecosystem,including the air and soil,is treated with an extremely potent fungicide that kills all fungal life stages including spores.What will probably happen next?

• A)Tree growth will increase because the dead fungi will act as a fertilizer.
• B)A few animals will go extinct due to loss of their fungal food sources,but otherwise the forest will be largely unchanged.
• C)Dead organic matter will accumulate on the forest floor; plant growth will decline because of a lack of nutrients and the loss of mycorrhizal partners.
• D)Plants will enjoy a long- term increase in growth and survival because of the removal of fungal pathogens.

---

Definitions:

Federal Budget Deficit

The financial situation that occurs when a government's expenditures exceed its revenues in a fiscal year.

Unemployment Rate

The share of the labor force that has no current job but is in the process of looking for one actively.

Computerization

The process of applying computer technology to automate tasks, processes, or functions in various fields.

Inflation Rate

The frequency at which the universal cost for goods and services climbs, consequently eroding purchasing efficacy.