How Grasslands Work

Earth is comprised of many ecosystems—tropical rainforests, grasslands and savannas, and tundra to name just a few. In the dry lands of Africa, the most common ecosystem is the savanna, or tropical grassland. Grasses are sustained by rainfall, and they support many species of herbivores, such as zebras, antelope, buffalo, rhinos, elephants, and many domesticated livestock species. The wildlife, in turn, supports predators, such as lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards. In this unit, we will explore

• how grasses are constructed and how animals use the different parts.
• how grasses grow and what environmental factors affect their growth.
• who eats the grasses and how the cycle of life is organized into food chains and food webs.
• how wildlife and domesticated grazers who eat the same foods can coexist with sustainable management and conservation.