Page 170 - Innovator's Science-8

WHAT HAPPENS TO WASTE IN NATURE?

You may have noticed small, umbrella-shaped mushrooms growing on
dead trees or plants during the rainy season. These mushrooms are a type
of fungus, which grows on dead matter.

Fungi and bacteria are examples of microorganisms that break down dead
Mushroom
plants and animals into simpler substances. This process is called
decomposition. It helps return important nutrients to the soil, which plants

use to grow.
You might also see small insects like beetles and flies on animal droppings

such as elephant dung . These insects help break down waste and return
Mushroom growing nutrients back into the environment.
on dead organic matter
Organisms that carry out decomposition are called decomposers or
saprotrophs sapro = rotten, troph = food). They play a very important role
(

in recycling nutrients in nature. Thanks to decomposers, nothing in nature
is wasted— everything is reused in some way to support life.

India is a country with a wide variety of climates and habitats. Many
migratory birds travel thousands of kilometres to reach different parts of
India. They migrate to avoid extreme weather and to find food.

These birds not only add beauty to the places they visit, but also play an
important role in the ecosystem. They help with pollination and seed
dispersal, connecting different habitats as they travel.

Migratory birds also help farmers— they feed on insect pests and reduce

the need for chemical pesticides, supporting healthy crop growth.
Birds Migrations One example is the Demoiselle Crane, which visits the water bodies of
Khichan village in Jodhpur district during winter.

Do you know which birds visit your area only during the winter months?

Here's an idea:
• Try to collect postal stamps or covers released by the Indian Postal

Department featuring migratory birds.
• Learn about the places these birds come from and why they travel to
Demoiselle Crane
different parts of India.
• Create a display in your science lab or school library to help others learn
about migratory birds and their importance.

HOW DOES ONE CHANGE LEAD TO ANOTHER?

Take a look at Figure given alongside It shows how a single small change in
the environment can cause many other changes, like a chain reaction.

170
Science-8