Lesson 8:
Limited Ecosystems:
An Aboriginal Perspective
There are many different Aboriginal beliefs that refer to humankind’s relation to the earth world, the plant and animal peoples and the environment. These beliefs include:
1. An unbreakable relationship between people and the natural world.
2. Recognition of the dependence of people on the physical environment.
3. Responsibility to future generations.
4. Respectful and responsible use of resources.
5. Preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the natural environment.
6. Belief in the link between environmental quality and quality of life.
1. An unbreakable relationship between people and the natural world.
2. Recognition of the dependence of people on the physical environment.
3. Responsibility to future generations.
4. Respectful and responsible use of resources.
5. Preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the natural environment.
6. Belief in the link between environmental quality and quality of life.
In Canada, the First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study looks at the ways in which human interact with the environment, and the reciprocal relationship between humans and their ecosystem. We rely on our environment to survive, while playing an important role in the world around us.
Like the first inhabitants of our country, we need to understand that ecosystems are limited.
Like the first inhabitants of our country, we need to understand that ecosystems are limited.
LIMITING FACTORS:
Both abiotic and biotic factors limit population growth in ecosystems. Think about the resources that humans need to survive. As our population continues to grow in size, what could happen to our access to the resources we need? And what could happen to other living things that depend on many of the resources we do?
Both abiotic and biotic factors limit population growth in ecosystems. Think about the resources that humans need to survive. As our population continues to grow in size, what could happen to our access to the resources we need? And what could happen to other living things that depend on many of the resources we do?
Populations are limited by their ecosystem's carrying capacity (the largest population an ecosystem can sustain before running out of resources).
ACTION ITEM
Create a mind map showing how our natural ecosystems are limited. The middle circle of your mind map should have the title: "What natural factors limit the growth of ecosystems?" Your mind map should show at least 4 types of factors and examples of each.