Changes in the Environment CHANGES BY NATURE

Floods

 Water that flows over land that is usually dry

Destroy ecosystems on the land which cause animals to struggle to meet basic needs FLOODS CARRY AND DEPOSIT NUTRIENTS THAT ENRICH THE SOIL SO NEW PLANTS CAN GROW.

Droughts

Drought  There is an unusual lack of rain in an area for a long period of time.

Drought Harmful Effects  Plants and trees may die due to the lack of water.  Organisms that rely on the plants and trees for food may die as a result. Beneficial Effect  In wetlands/marshes, droughts allow these areas to begin to dry out, causing new plant growth.

Fires Harmful Effect Destroy plants and trees which are sources of food and shelter.

Beneficial Effects  Benefits plants by adding nutrients to the soil  Removes dead and decaying plants

Beneficial Effects  Eliminates dense foliage allowing seeds to grow and thrive  Restores plant nutrients to the soil

Landslides

What is a landslide?  The downward sliding of relatively dry mass of earth and rock

Harmful Effect Destroys habitats BENEFICIAL EFFECTS MAKES UNINHABITABLE ENVIRONMENTS MORE EASILY ASSESSIBLE MAKES NEW AREAS FOR PLANTS AND ANIMALS TO GROW

Volcanic Eruptions

Harmful Effects Destroys entire ecosystems including all plants and animals Makes the air difficult to breath nearby

Beneficial Effects Volcanic ash contains nutrients that enrich the soil which will help new plants grow. Volcanic rocks are often used as building materials.

Earthquakes

What is an earthquake?  A sudden movement in the Earth’s crust

Harmful Effect  Can trigger landslides which can destroy plant and animal habitats

Beneficial Effect CAN MAKE NATURAL RESOURCES EASIER TO ACCESS