Ecosystem Components - Essay Example

The sustenance of this park depends on the cooperation of people living in the area, and the activities of the government to protect it (Boarman & Coe, 2002). This paper will examine the characteristics of this ecosystem, and the plans that are in place to ensure that it continues to sustain life in that area. The major structural and functional dynamics The massive dry land that is the Mojave Desert makes the Joshua Tree National Park a beautiful sight. This area is the special habitat for the Joshua Tree, which is also known as Yucca brevifolia.

Geological displays, such as hills of unadorned rock, are also part of this environment. The functional dynamics of the ecosystem border on the competitiveness of the living things in the habitat. Living things, for example plants, have to be competitive in their quest to retrieve sunlight. Over some time, the plants in this area have to adapt to the environment to reduce their exposure to sunlight. It is through this adaptation that they are becoming a part of the ecosystem’s food chain. Ravens stand out with an increase in population in the ecosystem.

An imbalance in such may lead to an alteration in the ecosystem’s food chain as there might start being a decrease in the tortoise population (Fontaine et al., 2011). How humans may have affected biogeochemical cycles Over the years, humans have been affecting the biogeochemical cycle that exists in this natural habitat. For instance, the driving of vehicles in this habitat at high speeds has led to the death of a number of animals, for example tortoises. The decomposition of these animals leads to the disruption of the carbon cycle that is present in the area.

The carbon, phosphorus, and nitrogen cycles are affected as the decomposition of these animals tie to biological matter, causing a release of carbon dioxide gas into the ecosystem. Fires are another way in which individuals affect the ecosystem’s gas cycles. The burning of dry plants makes it difficult for the ecosystem to sustain itself as the primary producers are being eliminated. Also, the acidic nature of the fumes released into the atmosphere in such an ecosystem may prove challenging to the phosphorus cycle that exists (Fontaine et al., 2011). How knowledge about JT National Park can help or has helped to develop plans for its management and restoration In the 21st century, it is particularly crucial for individuals to help in the restoration and management of national parks.

The educational programs in institutions are being re-examined to allow different areas to bring focus to the preservation of national parks, and other natural habitats. Since parks are a place where basic biology can be observed, learners are engaged through visits on a regular basis. By understanding the dynamics surrounding the JT National Park, individuals might be keen on trying to be more cautious as they drive through the desert or its environs. The terrain may be difficult to comprehend and this makes it even more tedious in trying to educate people.

However, by having the locals in that area take the initiative to act as guides, it may be possible to avoid some of the human acts that may work against nature (Boarman & Coe, 2002). Forest fires, a thing that is common, should be a thing of the past. People should become more self-aware of the threats they pose. The implication of species interactions in ecosystem management and re