Page 2 - Microsoft Word - geo class task.docx

Part 1:
Name and describe the ecosystem you wish to protect
Alpine ecosystem: Andes mountains South America.
Describe where the ecosystem is located ( provide a map).
The Andes Mountains are located in South America, running north to south along the
western coast of the continent. The latitude is 10° N. to 57° S. The longitude is 70° W. to 80°
E.

Describe the functioning of the ecosystem (animals, plant, biophysical interactions).
The atmospheric conditions of the alpine environment hugely affect the biophysical
conditions of the Andes. Because the Southern Andes, like all other alpine ecosystems are
subject to harsh winds, freezing temperatures, snow, ice and radiation, vegetation only
grows close to the ground, consisting of mainly perennial grasses, sedges and forbs, and
does not accommodate the growth of trees. Plants are small in size to conserve energy as
well as having stiff leaves to protect them from the harsh winds. Another characteristic of
these plants is that they grow from one stem, allowing moisture to run down the leaves into
the base of the plants. This feature allows the plant to survive in period of drought. The
northern parts of the Andes experience warm and rainy conditions due the the close
proximity to the equator. In the very northern tip of the Andes Ecuador experience very
different conditions than the rest of the Andes. Because of their close proximity to the
equator, conditions are much warmer and wetter which in turn directly affects their
biophysical environment.

Explain why this ecosystem needs protection (refer to linkages, biodiversity, location and/or
extent).