Chapter 43 Conservation Biology and Global Change

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary from Chapter 43 on Conservation Biology and Global Change, helping students understand critical terms essential for their exam.

Conservation biology

Integrates several fields such as ecology, physiology, molecular biology, genetics, and evolutionary biology to conserve biological diversity.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem, typically considered at genetic, species, and ecosystem levels.

Threatened species

A species that is likely to become endangered in the near future.

Extinction vortex

A situation where a small population loses genetic variability, resulting in further population decline.

Habitat loss

The destruction, degradation, or fragmentation of natural habitats, significantly threatening biodiversity.

Introduced species

Species moved from their native habitats to new geographic regions, often disrupting local ecosystems.

Overharvesting

The harvesting of wild organisms at rates exceeding the population’s ability to rebound.

Critical load

The amount of added nutrient that can be absorbed by plants without damaging ecosystem integrity.

Ecosystem services

Processes through which natural ecosystems help sustain human life, including air and water purification, waste detoxification, and crop pollination.

Zoned reserve

Regions of relatively undisturbed areas surrounded by human-modified areas of economic value, designed to preserve biodiversity.

Sustainable development

Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Biophilia

The inherent human inclination to affiliate with nature and other forms of life.