The kapok tree is a flowering plant that grows very quickly until it becomes one of the tallest trees in a tropical rainforest ecosystem. Climbing plants twine around its stem, and the tree offers a habitat for insect-eating birds and frogs. Bats feed on nectar from its flowers and pollinate them, allowing the tree to make small, light seeds. Insects eat its leaves, and when the leaves drop to the ground they come into contact with soil bacteria and fungi.
(a(i))[2]
Using the information given, draw a food chain for this tropical rainforest in the space provided. The chain must include three organisms.
(a(ii))[3]
Suggest and explain how being tall may help this tree species survive.
(a(iii))[3]
Explain why the bacteria and fungi in the rainforest soil are important to this ecosystem.
(b(i))[1]
Name one substance found in plants but not in animals that contains carbon.
(b(ii))[2]
Explain how burning trees adds to global warming.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “kapok/tree + insect + frog/bird” …