What Are Three Populations Commonly Found in a Prairie Ecosystem?

Three populations commonly found in a prairie ecosystem are largeheaded grasshoppers, prairie dogs and blue grama. Largeheaded grasshoppers live in tall grasses, which is their primary food. In many regions they are the most plentiful species of grasshopper.

Prairie dogs, which are rodents, earned their names because of their barking call. On the prairie they are common prey for predators, including coyotes, eagles and badgers. Animals such as ferrets and salamanders find shelter in prairie dogs’ abandoned burrows.

Blue grama is a relatively short prairie grass — only 12 to 14 inches when flowering — found throughout prairies. It tolerates both cold and hot temperatures as well as drought. It requires no more than 7 inches of rainfall per year.