Ecosystem Services and Their Values

These flashcards cover key concepts related to ecosystem services and their values, as well as ecological tolerance.

What are ecosystem services?

Ecosystem services are benefits provided by ecosystems that contribute to human well-being and environmental health.

What is the distinction between direct and indirect value of ecosystem services?

Direct value refers to short-term, economic benefits that impact human needs, while indirect value provides longer-term support for environmental sustainability.

What encompasses ethical value in ecosystem services?

Ethical value includes long-term environmental benefits that arise from considerations of biodiversity and conservation.

What types of provisioning services are provided by biodiversity?

Provisioning services include resources like food, drinking water, timber, fuels, natural gas, oils, and medicinal plants.

What are regulating services and their importance?

Regulating services involve ecosystem processes that maintain air and soil quality, manage floods, and control diseases, contributing to ecosystem sustainability.

What are cultural services in the context of ecosystem benefits?

Cultural services refer to non-material benefits provided by ecosystems that enhance cultural, educational, recreational experiences, and creativity.

What are supporting services in ecosystems?

Supporting services include fundamental processes like photosynthesis, nutrient cycling, soil formation, and the water cycle, which allow ecosystems and human society to thrive.

What does ecological tolerance refer to?

Ecological tolerance refers to the range of environmental conditions an organism can endure before risking harm or death.

How does ecological tolerance apply at different levels?

Ecological tolerance applies at both the individual and species level, with organisms adapting to specific abiotic conditions in their environments.