Conservation and Biodiversity Overview

These flashcards cover key vocabulary relating to conservation and biodiversity, emphasizing definitions and concepts vital for understanding the subject.

Biodiversity

The variety of life found within an area, including both the number of species and the variety of species.

Anthropogenic

Caused by human activity.

Mass extinction

A widespread and rapid decrease in the biodiversity on Earth, often due to unnatural causes.

Evolution

The process by which organisms change over time through adaptations in response to environmental pressures.

Ecosystem

A community of living organisms and their non-living environment interacting as a system.

Species richness

The number of different species represented in a given ecological community.

Species evenness

The relative abundance of different species in a given area.

Deforestation

The clearing of forests or trees, often resulting in loss of biodiversity.

Monoculture

The cultivation of a single crop in a given area, leading to reduced biodiversity.

Invasive species

Species that are not native to a specific location and that can cause harm to the ecosystem.

Rewilding

Restoring areas of land to their natural, uncultivated state.

Botanical gardens

Protected areas where various plants are grown for study and conservation.

EDGE score

A measure combining the endangerment status and evolutionary distinctness of a species to prioritize conservation efforts.

Pollution

The introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment.

Overexploitation

Unsustainable use of natural resources, leading to a decline in species populations.

Genetic diversity

The total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species.

IPBES

Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, providing assessments on biodiversity and ecosystems.

IUCN Red List

A comprehensive listing of the global conservation status of plant and animal species.