Seed Dispersal and Habitat Fragmentation
Videos
Grades9, 10, 11, 12, APBiology
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by BioInteractive
What it is
- This video explains the importance of animals like spider monkeys for seed dispersal in forests and how habitat fragmentation and deforestation are disrupting this symbiotic process.
- Two scientists explain their fieldwork tracking spider monkeys in a tropical forest of Colombia, discuss the seed dispersal process, and highlight their work distributing and planting seeds to restore the trees in this habitat.
Teaching tips
Positives
- This is a great way to introduce students to the importance of protected habitat for ecosystems to function and to maintain biodiversity.
- The video provides a first-hand account of what scientific fieldwork entails.
- The video is also available in Spanish and a transcript is provided.
Additional Prerequisites
- Before watching the video, students should be familiar with terms like habitat and reforestation.
- The resource provides more curriculum connections at the bottom of the page.
Differentiation
- As a follow-up activity, have students research other animals that contribute to seed dispersal in forests.
- Have students consider the implications of reduced seed dispersal due to habitat fragmentation for climate change and then discuss in pairs.
- As an extension, have students use this lesson to learn more about the different causes of deforestation and brainstorm solutions that will protect forest habitat and reduce carbon in the atmosphere.
- AP or IB biology classes can link this video to lessons about ecosystems, habitat loss, species loss, symbiotic relationships, and plant reproduction strategies.
From the scientist review
This video discusses deforestation and fragmentation in Columbia and how that affects animal’s habitats, especially the spider monkey. The video also discusses how spider monkeys assist or contribute to forest regrowth through seed dispersal. The resource also links to an adjacent activity for students. Students will also get a glimpse into what field work can look like for scientists studying the spider monkeys and how collecting scientific data can work. The information presented is accurate, and this resource is recommended for teaching.
How we review resourcesReady to use it?
Hosted on biointeractive.org
Want this to fit your class?
Add your location for local examples, questions, and action ideas.
