Sustaining Biodiversity: Saving Species

A set of flashcards covering essential topics discussed in the lecture on biodiversity, including the importance of biodiversity, threats to species, ecological services, and conservation efforts.

What is the instrumental value of biodiversity?

Includes economic goods and services, recreation, and scientific information.

What is the intrinsic value of biodiversity?

The value of species existing simply because they exist.

Name two plants that contribute to medical drugs derived from the rainforest.

Vincristine from Rosy Periwinkle and Quinine from Cinchona Tree.

What significant ecological service do honeybees provide?

Pollination.

What is colony collapse disorder (CCD)?

A phenomenon of massive decline in honeybee populations since 2006.

What does HIPPCO stand for in the context of species threats?

Habitat destruction, Invasive species, Population growth, Pollution, Climate change, Overexploitation.

Which species is known for having a dramatically increased survival rate for pediatric leukemia due to the Rosy Periwinkle?

Children's chances of survival increased from 20% to 80%.

What major factor contributes to the extinction of many species according to the notes?

Loss of habitat.

What are biodiversity hotspots?

Regions with a large number of endemic species that are threatened by human activities.

What conservation practice was initiated for the California condor?

Captive breeding program.

Why is the agriculture sector heavily reliant on European honeybees?

They are used almost exclusively for pollinating crops.

What happened to the California Island Fox population?

It was brought back from near extinction through conservation efforts.

What impact do non-native species have on ecosystems?

They can disrupt local species and contribute to extinctions.

What is one effect of climate change on biodiversity?

It exacerbates the threats to species survival.

What is the significance of the Endangered Species Act?

It aims to recover and stabilize endangered species populations.

How have invasive species affected the Channel Islands' ecosystem?

They competed with native species and led to the decline of species like the island fox.

What role do prescription drugs play in relation to rainforest Biodiversity?

About 25% of prescription drugs are derived from rainforest plants.

What is a keystone species?

A species that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance.