5. The "trickle down" effects are known as trophic cascades. Describe the trophic cascade that occurred in Yellowstone
when wolves were reintroduced.



Answer :

The reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone National Park led to a trophic cascade, changing the ecosystem in a significant way: 1. Wolves, as top predators, controlled the population of elk. 2. With fewer elk grazing, vegetation such as aspen and willow trees were able to regenerate. 3. The regeneration of these trees provided habitat for songbirds, beavers, and other species. 4. Beavers began building dams along streams due to the increased availability of trees, altering the water flow and creating new habitats for aquatic life. 5. The changes in the ecosystem affected the behavior of the rivers, with stabilized banks and improved water quality. 6. The entire landscape of Yellowstone transformed due to the trophic cascade initiated by the reintroduction of wolves.