Biodiversity and Human Impact on Ecosystems

These flashcards cover key concepts related to biodiversity, human impact on ecosystems, ecological principles, and conservation efforts.

How does biodiversity ensure the stability of an ecosystem?

It reduces the dependence on particular species for resources, allowing other species to survive if one is removed.

What factors have contributed to the increase in human consumption of resources?

Rapid rise in human population and increase in standard of living.

What is eutrophication?

The process where fertilizers from farms pollute water, causing excessive algae growth and depletion of oxygen.

How does eutrophication affect aquatic life?

It causes death of plants and animals due to reduced oxygen levels.

What human activities contribute to land reduction for plants and animals?

Building, farming, quarrying, and waste disposal.

Why do peat bogs contribute significantly to the greenhouse effect?

They store carbon, and burning them releases carbon dioxide.

Why have large-scale deforestation achieved?

To create land for cattle, rice fields, and biofuel crops.

What is the greenhouse effect?

The trapping of solar energy as heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

What is the primary cause of global warming?

The increase in levels of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide and methane.

What are some harmful effects of deforestation?

Destruction of habitats and release of greenhouse gases.

State some consequences of global warming.

Rising sea levels, melting ice caps, changing weather patterns, animal migration, increase of tropical diseases, and species extinction.

What are steps taken to maintain biodiversity?

Breeding programs for endangered species, habitat protection, replanting hedgerows, reducing deforestation, lowering carbon dioxide emissions, and recycling.

What is the purpose of replanting hedgerows and field margins?

To increase biodiversity in areas that surround agricultural fields.

How does the decrease of one species impact an ecosystem?

It can destabilize the ecosystem but biodiversity allows for survival of others.

What role do wetlands play in biodiversity?

They provide critical habitat for numerous species and help filter pollutants.

Why is carbon dioxide considered a greenhouse gas?

It traps heat in the atmosphere, affecting global temperatures.

What activities contribute to soil erosion?

Farming, deforestation, and construction.

How does increased waste production affect the environment?

It leads to pollution and habitat destruction.

What is habitat fragmentation?

The process where large habitats are broken into smaller, isolated sections.

What are biofuels?

Renewable fuels produced from organic materials that can replace fossil fuels.

What is a carbon sink?

A natural environment that absorbs and stores carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

What is the significance of breeding programs for endangered species?

To prevent extinction and promote genetic diversity.

How does agricultural runoff contribute to water pollution?

Fertilizers and pesticides from fields wash into water bodies, leading to eutrophication.

What impact do changing weather patterns have on ecosystems?

They disrupt habitats and migration patterns of species.

What was a historical reason for extensive deforestation?

To provide land for agriculture.

How can recycling help biodiversity?

By reducing waste and the need for raw materials, which helps conserve habitats.

What is the role of hedgerows in agriculture?

They act as wildlife corridors and increase biodiversity.

Why is it important to protect peat bogs?

They play a significant role in carbon storage and biodiversity.

What are the results of increased greenhouse gas emissions?

Global warming and climate change.

How does urbanization affect local ecosystems?

It reduces habitat space and disrupts wildlife.

What is the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem resilience?

Higher biodiversity often leads to greater resilience against environmental changes.

What methods can be employed to restore habitats?

Reforestation, wetland restoration, and controlled grazing.

What types of species are often most affected by climate change?

Species with specific habitat requirements or limited ranges.

Why is understanding the nitrogen cycle important in ecology?

It plays a vital role in nutrient availability for plants and overall ecosystem health.

How do invasive species impact native biodiversity?

They can outcompete native species for resources, often leading to declines.

What is an ecological footprint?

A measure of human demand on Earth's ecosystems.

How can education contribute to biodiversity conservation?

By raising awareness of environmental issues and encouraging sustainable practices.

In what ways do forests contribute to carbon storage?

Trees absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, storing carbon in biomass.

What role does legislation play in environmental protection?

It establishes regulations to conserve habitats and promote sustainable resource use.