Biodiversity: Preserving Species

A collection of vocabulary flashcards focused on biodiversity, its threats, and conservation efforts.

Endangered species

Species that are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, poaching, or other factors.

Invasive species

Non-native species that, when introduced to a new environment, can cause harm to local ecosystems.

Ecosystem services

Benefits provided by ecosystems that contribute to making human life both possible and worth living.

Deforestation

The clearing or thinning of forests by humans, which leads to loss of biodiversity.

Overfishing

Catching fish faster than they can reproduce, threatening fish populations.

Wildlife poaching

Illegal hunting or capturing of wild animals, often for their body parts.

Pollution

The introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment.

Climate change

Significant and lasting changes in the global climate, affecting ecosystems worldwide.

Species extinction

The end of an organism or group of organisms, indicating complete loss of biodiversity.

CITES

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species; regulates international trade of endangered species.

ESA

Endangered Species Act; U.S. law aimed at protecting critically imperiled species from extinction.

Genetic resources

Genetic material of plants, animals, and microorganisms that have actual or potential value.

Ecotourism

Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment.

Biological diversity

The variety of life within an ecosystem, typically measured in terms of species variety.

Extinction rate

The rate at which species become extinct over a given period of time.

Habitat loss

Destruction of environments where organisms live, significantly impacting biodiversity.

Quinine

A medicinal compound derived from the bark of the cinchona tree, effective against malaria.

Biomagnification

The increasing concentration of toxic substances in organisms at each successive trophic level.

Conservation efforts

Actions aimed at protecting biodiversity and ensuring sustainable practices.

Medicinal plants

Plants that have bioactive compounds that can be used for therapeutic purposes.

Species recovery plan

A strategy developed to restore endangered or threatened species to healthy populations.

Habitat conservation

The practice of protecting and preserving natural habitats to maintain biodiversity.

Sustainable use

Using natural resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising future generations.