Env. Science: Biodiversity and Conservation

  • Species share certain characteristics like similar DNA and can breed with one another to produce fertile offspring.

  • Species diversity: the number or variety of a species in a particular region

  • Genetic diversity: the differences in DNA among individuals within species and populations

  • Ecosystem diversity: the number and variety of ecosystems within a given area

  • Taxonomists are scientists who classify species.

    • They use physical appearance and genetic makeup to determine species

    • Species are then placed in taxonomic groups that reflect evolutionary relationships.

    • Every species is given a two-part name denoting genus and species

    • Some organisms can be classified into subspecies

  • Subspecies: a population of organisms that have genetically based characteristics such as size or color that differ from the same species in a different area.

    • A subspecies may have a different size or color but, if they were to live together, they could still interbreed.

    • Scientists designate subspecies when they recognize major genetically based differences among individuals of the same species but different populations.

  • Biodiversity is broken into:

    • Genetic diversity

    • Species diversity

      • Most commonly used because it is easier to identify

    • Ecosystem diversity

  • Ecologists are finding that high levels of biodiversity tend to increase the stability of communities and ecosystems.

    • An ecosystem is considered stable if it is both resistant and resilient.

  • A resistant ecosystem can resist environmental change without losing function.

  • A resilient ecosystem is affected by change but can bounce back and regain function.

  • Every species that goes extinct represents a lost opportunity to find a cure for a disease.

    • Biodiversity + medicine

  • Ecotourism describes environmentally responsible travel to protected natural areas for the purpose of appreciating nature, promoting conservation, and providing economic benefits to local people.

    • Biodiversity + tourism and recreation