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How Termites Enrich Ecosystems

Topic
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Animal Behavior
  • Zoology
  • Ecology
  • Ecosystems
Resource Type
  • Videos
  • Animations
Level
High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IBCollege
Favorited By
12 Users
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Description

This animation shows how termite mounds can increase the productivity of African savanna ecosystems.

Termites enrich soil quality by processing and excreting organic matter. Their underground movements also churn the soil, improving water infiltration. This animation illustrates the processes through which termite activity increases both nutrient availability and soil moisture, which boosts the productivity of surrounding vegetation.

Depending on students’ background, it may be helpful to pause the animation at various points to discuss different parts of the processes.

Details
Key Terms

Africa, grassland, mound, nitrogen, nutrient, phosphorus, productivity, savanna, soil

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Version History
Date Published 02.03.16
Date Updated 02.03.16
Materials
HD (M4V) 34.2 MB
HD (WMV) 29.7 MB
SD (M4V) 7.6 MB
SD (WMV) 8.0 MB
Transcript (PDF) 11 KB
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