AP Environmental Science 9.8 - Endangered Species

Meaning

Endangered Species: species of all types that are at high risk for extinction due to low rate of evolution, natural selection, or adaptation

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Risk Factors

  • K-selected Species
  • Not adapted to unstable environmental changes
  • Lower population growth rate
  • Fewer larger offspring
  • Later reproductive stage
  • Too Specialized
  • Specific habitat, climate zone, biome (latitude)
  • Specific food source
  • Endemic
  • Diseases that are particularly found in a defined region within a specific plant or animal species

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Why are Species Becoming Endangered?

HIPPCO

  • Habitat Destruction
  • Invasive Species
  • Population Size (increasing human population)
  • Pollution
  • Climate Change
  • Overexploitation (hunting, fishing)

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Importance of Endangered Species

  • Add to biodiversity
  • Key species in their respective food webs
  • May be an indicator species
  • Community keystone or foundational species

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How to Save Endangered Species

  • Habitat protection - preservations
  • Legislation and enforcement
  • Sanctioned breeding programs (captive breeding)
  • Education and knowledge

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