7.2 Conservation of habitats

Question 1

Define conservation

Answer 1

The management of the Earth’s natural resources so that maximum use of them can be made in the future.

Question 2

How can humans maintain ecosystems and diversity? (2)

Answer 2

Management of existing resources

Reclamation of damaged resources

Question 3

Main reasons for conservation:

For each section, give one reason:
Ethical?
Economic?
Cultural and aesthetic?

Answer 3

Other species have occupied Earth longer than humans, and should be able to coexist with us.

Other species contain gigantic pool of genes, with capacity to make millions of useful substances.

Other species add to interest of everyday life, inspires writers, poets, artists, composers.

Question 4

Why are species that existed in early stages of succession not present in climax community? (2)

How can habitats be conserved? E.g.? (4)

What happens if the factor preventing succession is removed?

Answer 4

Lost habitats
Competition

By preventing change to next stage of succession.
E.g. by burning, cutting back, water-logging, grazing by consumer

Ecosystem develops naturally into climax community.

Question 5

EXAM QUESTION

Suggest one reason for conserving woodlands. (1)

Answer 5

1. Conserving/protecting
habitats/niches;
2. Conserving/protecting (endangered)
species / maintains/increases
(bio)diversity;
3. Reduces global
warming/greenhouse effect/climate
change / remove/take up carbon
dioxide;
4. Source of
medicines/chemicals/wood;
5. Reduces erosion/eutrophication;