Lecture on Zoonotic Diseases and Environmental Issues

These flashcards cover critical terminology and concepts related to environmental issues, zoonotic diseases, and interactions between species as discussed in the lecture.

Pesticides

Chemicals used to kill pests, which in this context, are harming vultures.

Zoonotic Diseases

Diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

Invasive Species

Non-native species that disrupt local ecosystems, such as wild dogs influencing vulture populations.

Rabies

A viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, highlighted as a risk in the presence of wild dogs.

Horseshoe Crabs

Marine animals at risk due to overfishing and use as bait, which affects their populations.

MPAs (Marine Protected Areas)

Designated regions for protecting marine life and habitat, seen as a solution for horseshoe crab conservation.

Ebola

A zoonotic virus initially transmitted to humans from bats.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

A viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, with birds as the primary host.

West Nile Virus

A virus transmitted by mosquitoes, with birds serving as its reservoir.

Chytrid Fungus

A pathogenic fungus affecting amphibians, which has raised concerns over species decline.

Mycorrhizal Relationships

Mutualistic interactions between fungi and plant roots that enhance nutrient exchange.

Artificial Blood

Synthetic substitutes that can potentially replace horseshoe crab blood in medical applications.

Sustainable Fishing Practices

Fishing methods that aim to maintain fish stocks and protect marine habitats.

Closed Fishing Season

A period during which fishing is not allowed to protect species during breeding.

Nutrient Cycling

The process by which nutrients are recycled in the ecosystem, often assisted by fungi.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in a particular habitat, which fungi contribute to through various ecological roles.