1. In two to three paragraphs, name your ecosystem, tell where it is (including state and nearest town), state its limits, discuss why defining limits is important, and include any data you collected during your study of the physical limits of the ecosystem. Explain why this ecosystem is an open system. You may include a photograph or map of your ecosystem, but these are not mandatory. Be clear, thorough, and scientifically accurate.

I chose Feather River for my Eco-system in Oroville California. The limiting factors in my Eco-system are the current, sunlight, temperature of the water and the water level. Feather River has a strong current that limits the types of fish that are in the water. The temperature is a major factor because the direct runoff from the melting snow causes the water to be very cold which also effects the depth and width of the river. There is no shade so sunlight shines down which allows algae to flourish.

This ecosystem is an open system because there is a steady flow of water going through. Defining the limiting factors of an ecosystem are important because it affects what type of species or how a species survives in the ecosystem. The cold water effects the diversity of fish in the waters. The current effects what type are fish travel through the water. Only fish with streamlined bodies can travel efficiently through the water and they tend to go against the current. The rivers water level is low in the beginning of summer but soon rises when the temperature rises. The temperature of the river does not change, it only gets warmer further down stream.