4.15/4.16 Flashcards
1
Q
The Earth’s biodiversity has become ………, however it is …….. rapidly due to ….. ……..!
A
The Earth’s biodiversity has become EXTENSIVE however it is REDUCING rapidly due to HUMAN ACTIVITY.
2
Q
Ways that humans haven threatened biodiversity:
A
- Climate Change - some plants and animals will no longer survive in these climate shifts
- Increase in demand of natural resources - habitats will be destroyed along with biodiversity
3
Q
What is biodiversity?
A
It is a measure of the variety of living organisms and their genetic differences.
4
Q
Why is biodiversity important?
A
- All organisms in ecosystems depend on one another, it allows large-scale ecosystems to function and self-regulate. If biodiversity is reduce in one area, the natural balance may be destroyed elsewhere!
- Biodiversity allows genetic variation which we use to develop crops, livestock etc. It also allows improvement in cross-breeding and genetic engineering. This will help us cope with problems due to climate change and disease.
- Plant biodiversity provides potential chemicals to be produced which are important in many areas of human life, including new medicines.
5
Q
What is an endemism?
A
When a species is restricted to a particular geographic region as a result of factors such as isolation (e.g. on islands). This will be known as an endemic species.