The Temperate Forest Biome and the Pacific Northwest Ecosystem
Grand Canyon University
BIO-220: Environmental Science
The Temperate Forest Biome and the Pacific Northwest Ecosystem
The temperate forest biome, characterized by moderate temperatures and distinct seasons,
supports a diverse range of plant and animal species. One prominent example of an ecosystem
within this biome is the Pacific Northwest in North America, encompassing parts of the United
States and Canada. This region is known for its lush forests, abundant wildlife, and critical
ecological relationships. The balance within this ecosystem is maintained through the presence
of keystone species, the threat of invasive species, and efforts to protect endangered species.
Keystone Species: The Gray Wolf
A keystone species within the Pacific Northwest ecosystem is the gray wolf (Canis
lupus). Keystone species play a critical role in maintaining the structure and balance of an
ecosystem (Estes et al., 2011). The gray wolf helps regulate prey populations, particularly deer
, and elk, which prevents overgrazing and allows vegetation to thrive. This, in turn, benefits other
species, such as songbirds and small mammals, by preserving their habitats (Ripple & Beschta,
2012). Without the presence of gray wolves, herbivore populations would skyrocket, leading to
significant environmental degradation. The critical role of the gray wolf in maintaining
biodiversity and ecological balance defines it as a keystone species.
Invasive Species: Himalayan Blackberry
An invasive species threatening the Pacific Northwest ecosystem is the Himalayan
blackberry (Rubus armeniacus). Originally introduced from Europe in the late 19th century, this
plant quickly spread throughout the region, displacing native vegetation and reducing
biodiversity (Dennehy et al., 2011). The Himalayan blackberry outcompetes native plants for
Grand Canyon University
BIO-220: Environmental Science
The Temperate Forest Biome and the Pacific Northwest Ecosystem
The temperate forest biome, characterized by moderate temperatures and distinct seasons,
supports a diverse range of plant and animal species. One prominent example of an ecosystem
within this biome is the Pacific Northwest in North America, encompassing parts of the United
States and Canada. This region is known for its lush forests, abundant wildlife, and critical
ecological relationships. The balance within this ecosystem is maintained through the presence
of keystone species, the threat of invasive species, and efforts to protect endangered species.
Keystone Species: The Gray Wolf
A keystone species within the Pacific Northwest ecosystem is the gray wolf (Canis
lupus). Keystone species play a critical role in maintaining the structure and balance of an
ecosystem (Estes et al., 2011). The gray wolf helps regulate prey populations, particularly deer
, and elk, which prevents overgrazing and allows vegetation to thrive. This, in turn, benefits other
species, such as songbirds and small mammals, by preserving their habitats (Ripple & Beschta,
2012). Without the presence of gray wolves, herbivore populations would skyrocket, leading to
significant environmental degradation. The critical role of the gray wolf in maintaining
biodiversity and ecological balance defines it as a keystone species.
Invasive Species: Himalayan Blackberry
An invasive species threatening the Pacific Northwest ecosystem is the Himalayan
blackberry (Rubus armeniacus). Originally introduced from Europe in the late 19th century, this
plant quickly spread throughout the region, displacing native vegetation and reducing
biodiversity (Dennehy et al., 2011). The Himalayan blackberry outcompetes native plants for
