4.11.8) Methods of maintaining biodiversity

Key information required for this part of the Biodiversity topic for OCR A Level Biology

What is in situ conservation and what is ex situ conservation (give examples of each)

Conservation within a natural habitat (marine conservation zones, wildlife reserves); conservation outside of a natural habitat (seed banks, botanic gardens, zoos)

What are the advantages of in situ conservation

Maintains genetic biodiversity of a species, allows the species to continue adapting for the conditions in their habitat; preserves interdependent relationships; cheaper than ex situ

What management techniques can be used for wildlife reserves

Controlled grazing, restricted human access, controlled poaching, feeding animals, reintroduction of species, culling or removal of invasive species, halting succession of habitats

What does the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) do and what law has it also established and what does this law do

Publishes the Red List every year which lists the conservation status of threatened animals; Conservation of International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES); regulates the trade of wild plant and animal specimens

What event established the Conservation on Biological Diversity, what does this convention do

The Earth Summit in Rio; requires countries to develop national strategies for sustainable development to maintain biodiversity

What did the Environmental/Countryside Stewardship Scheme do and what are the aims of it

Give governmental payments to farmers and other land managers to enhance and conserve the English landscape; sustain the beauty and diversity of the landscape, improves extends and creates wildlife habitats, restore neglected areas and conserve archaeological and historical features, improve opportunities for countryside enjoyment