Living Environment Regents Practice Test

What role do oak trees play in their ecosystem that could be affected by their removal?

1. They provide shade for understory plants

2. They attract large predators

3. They produce a high quantity of seeds for birds

4. They filter water in wetland areas

The correct answer is: They produce a high quantity of seeds for birds

Oak trees play a crucial role in their ecosystem, particularly through their ability to produce a high quantity of seeds, such as acorns, which are an essential food source for various bird species and other wildlife. The presence of these seeds supports not only birds but also mammals and insects that rely on them for nourishment. By providing this resource, oak trees help maintain the population of these animals, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem. Removing oak trees could lead to a significant decrease in the availability of food for these species, which may result in a decline in their populations. This can disrupt the food web, as other species that depend on birds or mammals for food might suffer as well. The loss of oak trees may further lead to changes in the vegetation structure, affecting the overall health of the ecosystem. While the other options mention important functions like providing shade for understory plants, attracting large predators, and filtering water, the specific and extensive role of acorn production highlights a critical aspect of how oak trees contribute to the ecosystem’s dynamics and the balance of species within it.