8. Herbivores such as the cow shown in Photograph 1 eat grass. Energy from the grass reaches the cow and returns to the grass. How do living things depend on each other in this case? Discuss.
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Penjelasan:
In the case of herbivores like the cow shown in Photograph 1, living things depend on each other in a complex ecological relationship known as an ecosystem. This relationship can be explained through the concept of energy flow and nutrient cycling.
1. Energy Flow:
- Grass: Grass is the primary producer in this ecosystem. It uses sunlight, water, and nutrients from the soil to undergo photosynthesis and produce food (glucose) through the process of photosynthesis.
- Cow: The cow, as a herbivore, consumes the grass for energy. It extracts energy from the grass through digestion and cellular respiration, which allows it to perform various life functions such as movement, growth, and reproduction.
- Energy Transfer: When the cow consumes the grass, it obtains the energy stored in the grass. This energy is then transferred from the grass to the cow. The cow utilizes this energy for its survival and various activities.
2. Nutrient Cycling:
- Grass: As the cow grazes on the grass, it obtains not only energy but also essential nutrients such as carbon, nitrogen, and other minerals.
- Cow: The cow metabolizes the nutrients obtained from the grass, utilizing them for growth, tissue repair, and other bodily functions.
- Waste and Decomposition: The cow excretes waste in the form of feces and urine. These waste products contain undigested plant matter and nutrients that are released back into the environment.
- Nutrient Absorption: The waste products from the cow are broken down by decomposers (bacteria, fungi, etc.) present in the soil. These decomposers further break down the organic matter and release nutrients back into the soil, enriching it and making it available for the growth of new grass.
- Grass Regrowth: The nutrients released into the soil by the decomposers are absorbed by the grass roots, allowing the grass to regrow and continue the cycle.
In this way, living things in this ecosystem, such as the grass and the cow, depend on each other for their survival and growth. The grass provides energy and nutrients to the cow, while the cow returns nutrients to the environment through its waste, contributing to the growth of new grass. This interdependence ensures the balance and sustainability of the ecosystem.