balance in ecosystems

conservation

wise management and use of natural resources that protects habitats and wildlife

biodiversity

variety of species found in an ecosystem

human impact

is destroying ecosystems. when ecosystems are lost species become extinct.

sustainable use of resources

using resources wisely so that they are not depleted

how are ecosystems conserved

areas are set aside so that there are no human impact.

alien vegetation

tough, quick growing plants that outcompete indigenous plants

biological control

introducing living things which are natural enemies of the alien species

chemical control

herbicides or poisons sprayed. expensive. yearly

mechanical control

burning, cutting down or uprooting. time consuming. expensive

wetlands

marshes, floodplains, lakes and estuarine systems

50% of SA wetlands

have been lost along with their species

wetlands function

filter, clean and store water, prevent soil erosion and flooding

wetlands biodiversity

serve are breeding grounds for many organisms

reed purpose

thatching and making baskets