The Secret Behind the Rise of Moon Jelly Population
Which populations could have caused the size of the moon jelly population to increase?
You’ve already discussed how the zooplankton and sea turtle populations might have caused the size of the moon jelly population to increase. Which other populations do you think could have caused the size of the moon jelly population to increase? (You may choose more than one.)
walleye pollock
algae
orca
sea urchin
kelp,
Answer:
The algae or kelp population could have contributed to the increase in the moon jelly population. Small fish feed off algae or kelp, and larger fish feed off the smaller fish, creating a food chain/web that eventually leads to the moon jellyfish feeding on those animals. This cycle continues and helps boost the moon jelly population.
Moon jellyfish populations can be greatly influenced by various factors in their ecosystem. While zooplankton and sea turtle populations may have a significant impact, other populations such as algae and kelp can also play a crucial role in the rise of moon jelly populations.
Algae serves as a primary food source for many marine organisms, including small fish. These small fish are then preyed upon by larger fish, continuing the food chain. Eventually, the moon jellyfish, being higher up in the food web, consume these animals, contributing to their population increase.
Likewise, kelp, a type of large seaweed, can provide a habitat for many marine creatures and serve as food for herbivorous organisms. The presence of kelp in the ecosystem supports a diverse array of marine life, creating a balanced environment where moon jellyfish can thrive.
Understanding the interconnectedness of various populations in the ocean is vital in comprehending the dynamics of marine ecosystems. By recognizing the roles of different organisms, we can appreciate how each contributes to the overall health and balance of the underwater world, including the mysterious rise of the moon jelly population.