Plants, animals, insects and microbes are adapted to small changes in climate. However, climatic conditions vary widely over the earth. Organisms adapted to Illinois would not do well in a desert or tropical climate. Even extremes in Illinois' climate can result in destruction of some members of the Illinois ecosystem. The two most important climatic factors for ecosystems are sunlight and water.
Sunlight is necessary for plants to grow, and to provide energy to warm the earth's atmosphere.
Light intensity controls plant growth. All living organisms require some amount of water. Organisms in dry ecosystems are adapted to the conditions by storing water for use over long periods or becoming less active. At the other maximum, some plants and animals only survive by being submersed in water. Students will become aware of climatic effects on ecosystems.