Insect Apocalypse Lecture 9

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the lecture on habitat loss and its impact on insect biodiversity.

Baltimore Checkerspot

An endangered butterfly species (Euphydryas phaeton) in Maryland due to habitat loss.

Urbanization

The process by which rural areas become urbanized as people move to cities.

Ecological footprint

A measure of human demand on the Earth's ecosystems.

Species richness

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

Abundance

The number of individual organisms present in a specific area.

Hardscape

Non-plant material (like concrete) in urban environments that affects water drainage.

Plant diversity

The variety and variability of plant species within a specific area.

Insect herbivores

Insects that primarily feed on plant material.

Management intensity

The level of human intervention and care in the management of a forest or ecosystem.

Carabidae

A family of ground beetles known for their role in pest control.

Non-native plants

Plant species brought to an area where they did not previously exist, often having different ecological effects.

Cankerworms

Pests that are significant threats to trees, particularly in urban and forest environments.

Urban gradient

The transition from rural to urban landscapes characterized by changes in species composition and density.

Sucking herbivores

Herbivores that feed by sucking sap from plants.

Chewing herbivores

Herbivores that eat plant leaves or stems by chewing.

Community composition

The identity and relative abundance of species within a particular community.

Exotic species

Non-native species that can disrupt local ecosystems and biodiversity.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the diversity of species, genetics, and ecosystems.

Forest management

The practice of managing and maintaining forested areas to optimize ecological health and resource use.

Butterflies

Insects of the order Lepidoptera, known for their colorful wings and ecological significance.

Urban forest

Trees and vegetation found within urban areas.

Habitat loss

The process in which natural habitat is rendered unable to support the species present.

Predatory beetles

Beetles that prey on other insects, contributing to ecological balance.

Plant density

The number of plants in a specific area, often measured per square kilometer.

Ecological community

A group of interacting organisms sharing a common environment.

Urban species

Species particularly adapted to urban environments.

Herbivore decline

A reduction in the population and diversity of plant-eating animals.

Ground beetles

Predatory insects that primarily reside on the ground and play a role in controlling pests.

Urban spaces

Areas that have been developed for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes.

Insect biodiversity

The diversity of insect species in a given habitat, which can be impacted by environmental changes.

Woodland

A land area covered with trees and shrubs.

Rural population

The segment of the population living in non-urban areas.

Urban population

Individuals living in city areas.

Biodiversity threats

Factors that negatively impact the diversity of species in an ecosystem.

Environmental Change

Alterations in the environment, often due to human activities, which can affect species and ecosystems.

Butterfly abundance

The number of butterflies present in a given area.

Species abundance

The total number of individuals of a given species in a specific ecosystem.

Plant genera

Classification categories that group together species with similar characteristics.

Pollinator decline

A decrease in the populations of species that assist in plant reproduction by transferring pollen.

Ecosystem dynamics

The interactions and changes in ecosystems involving living and non-living components.

Refugia

Areas that provide shelter for species during times of unfavorable conditions.

Animal communities

Groups of interacting animal species living in the same habitat.

Invasive species

Species that outcompete native species and disrupt local ecosystems.

Niche diversity

The variety of roles and functions different species play within an ecosystem.

Ecosystem services

The benefits humans derive from ecosystems, including clean air, water, and pollination.

Anthropogenic effects

Environmental changes caused by human activity.

Experimental design

The plan for how to investigate scientific questions, including methods and variables.

Research findings

The conclusions drawn from scientific investigations and studies.

Ecological impact

The effect of an environmental change on an ecosystem and its organisms.

Environmental stewardship

Responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation efforts.