Conservation Biology and Global Change

A set of flashcards summarizing key concepts from the lecture on Conservation Biology and Global Change.

What is biological diversity?

Biological diversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms.

How many species have been identified on Earth?

Over 2 million species have been identified and described, with estimates of undiscovered species ranging from 5 to 100 million.

What are the three levels of biodiversity?

The three levels of biodiversity are genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity.

What constitutes genetic diversity?

Genetic diversity includes genetic variation within a population and between populations of a single species.

What is species diversity?

Species diversity is the variety of species in an ecosystem or throughout the biosphere.

What is ecosystem diversity?

Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of different habitats within a region and their ecological interactions.

What types of services do healthy ecosystems provide?

Healthy ecosystems provide essential ecosystem services, including provisioning services (food, water), regulating services (climate regulation, pollination), supporting services (oxygen production), and cultural services (recreation, aesthetic experiences).

What is the significance of the IUCN?

The IUCN identifies ecosystems at risk of losing species and ecological functions.

What are the consequences of species loss?

The loss of species leads to a decrease in genetic diversity and potential long-term benefits for humans.

What is the impact of habitat loss on biodiversity?

Habitat loss, mainly through human activities, is the greatest threat to biodiversity and often causes fragmentation and destruction.

What are introduced species?

Introduced species are those moved by humans from their native locations to new geographic areas where they may disrupt local ecosystems.

What is the effect of overharvesting on wildlife?

Overharvesting can lead to population decline and extinction, especially in large organisms with low reproductive rates.

How does climate change affect biodiversity?

Climate change can alter ecosystem dynamics, affect species ranges, and lead to extinction for less mobile species trying to adapt.