A.4 conservation of biodiversity

What are the three types of biodiversity?

Species diversity, ecosystem diversity, and genetic diversity.

What is species diversity?

The variety of different species on the evolutionary tree of life.

What is ecosystem diversity?

Variety in the combinations of species living together in communities.

What contributes to genetic diversity within species?

Variation in the gene pool of each species, including differences between geographically separated populations and within populations.

What is the primary cause of the sixth mass extinction?

Anthropogenic activities, or human activities.

What led to the extinction of the Caribbean monk seal?

Hunting for oil and overfishing of coral reefs leading to starvation.

What was a significant cause of the giant moa's extinction?

Overharvesting for meat.

Name one major factor contributing to habitat destruction.

Agriculture is the main cause, with land cultivated for crops and livestock.

How do invasive species contribute to extinction?

They can drive native species to extinction through predation, competition for resources, or spreading diseases.

What is the role of pollution in species extinction?

Chemical industries and human activities release pollutants that harm ecosystems.

What does the term 'biodiversity crisis' refer to?

Unprecedented losses of ecosystems and species occurring today.

What is one method of evidence gathering for monitoring biodiversity?

Conducting reliable surveys of species populations and genetic diversity.

What human activity has led to the loss of the Aral Sea?

Water management schemes that diverted rivers for irrigation purposes.

What is 'in situ conservation'?

Conserving species in their natural habitats.

What does the EDGE of Existence project focus on?

Identifying species that are evolutionarily distinct and globally endangered for conservation efforts.

What is ex situ conservation?

The preservation of species outside their natural habitats.

What are ecosystem services, and why are they important?

Ecosystem services are benefits provided by ecosystems, and they are crucial for human survival and well-being.