Biodiversity, Extinction, and Conservation Overview

Biodiversity

Variety of life in an ecosystem.

Biodiversity Gradient

Decrease in biodiversity away from the equator.

Species Richness

Number of different species in an area.

Solar Energy

Primary energy source for all life.

Evolutionary History

Time factor influencing species diversification.

Environmental Disturbance

Impact events affecting species diversity.

Biodiversity Hotspots

Regions with high biodiversity under threat.

Habitat Loss

Destruction of natural environments for human use.

Invasive Species

Non-native species harming local ecosystems.

Overexploitation

Harvesting species faster than they can recover.

Human Population Growth

Increase in human numbers impacting biodiversity.

Endangered Species

Species at risk of extinction.

Threatened Species

Species likely to become endangered soon.

6th Mass Extinction

Current rapid loss of species due to humans.

Background Extinction Rate

Natural rate of species extinction, 1-5 per year.

Extinction Crisis

Current unprecedented rate of species loss.

Ecological Footprint

Measure of human demand on Earth's resources.

Sustainable Development

Development meeting needs without harming future generations.

Protected Areas

Designated regions for conservation of biodiversity.

Urban Ecology

Study of ecosystems in urban environments.

Corridors

Connections between habitat fragments for wildlife.

Climate Change

Long-term alteration of temperature and weather patterns.

Exotic Species

Species introduced to new habitats, often invasive.