B18. Biodiversity and Ecosystems Flashcards
What is meant by the term ‘biodiversity’
Biodiversity is a measure of the variety of all of the different species of organisms on Earth, or within a particular ecosytem.
Why is a high biodiversity an advantage
It ensure a more stable ecosystem where more organisms can survive.
What are the main threats to biodiversity?
The main threats to biodiversity include habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, overexploitation of natural resources, and invasive species.
Explain the importance of biodiversity.
Biodiversity is important for maintaining the health and stability of ecosystems. It provides ecosystem services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and regulation of climate and water cycles. Biodiversity also has economic, cultural, and aesthetic value.
How can biodiversity be conserved?
Biodiversity can be conserved through measures such as habitat preservation, sustainable resource management, captive breeding programs, legislation and policy, and public education and awareness campaigns.
Define air pollution.
Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the Earth’s atmosphere, often resulting from human activities such as burning fossil fuels, industrial processes, and vehicle emissions.
What are some common air pollutants?
Common air pollutants include carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and ozone (O3).
How does air pollution impact human health?
Air pollution can cause respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis, cardiovascular diseases, and even lung cancer. Prolonged exposure to certain air pollutants can also impair lung function and lead to premature death.
What are the main sources of water pollution?
The main sources of water pollution include industrial discharges, agricultural runoff containing pesticides and fertilizers, sewage and wastewater discharge, and improper disposal of household chemicals and waste.
What are the effects of water pollution on aquatic ecosystems?
Water pollution can lead to the decline of aquatic biodiversity, as it can harm fish, amphibians, and other aquatic organisms. It can also disrupt ecosystems by causing algal blooms, oxygen depletion, and habitat destruction.
Define land pollution.
Land pollution refers to the contamination or degradation of land resources, often caused by improper disposal of waste, industrial activities, urbanization, and agricultural practices.
How does land pollution affect soil quality?
Land pollution can degrade soil quality by introducing harmful chemicals, heavy metals, and other contaminants into the soil. This can disrupt soil fertility, decrease crop yields, and harm soil organisms essential for nutrient cycling.
What are the consequences of land pollution?
Consequences of land pollution include loss of biodiversity, contamination of groundwater and surface water, soil erosion, habitat destruction, and adverse effects on human health through the consumption of contaminated food and water sources.
Define deforestation.
Deforestation is the permanent removal of forests or trees to make way for other land uses, such as agriculture, urban development, or logging.
What are the main causes of deforestation?
The main causes of deforestation include agricultural expansion, logging for timber and paper products, infrastructure development, and urbanization.
What are the environmental impacts of deforestation?
The environmental impacts of deforestation include loss of biodiversity, habitat destruction, soil erosion, disruption of water cycles, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and climate change.
How does deforestation affect climate change?
Deforestation contributes to climate change by releasing stored carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere and reducing the Earth’s capacity to absorb CO2 through photosynthesis.
Define peat bog destruction.
Peat bog destruction refers to the draining, degradation, or conversion of peatlands for agricultural, forestry, or urban development purposes, leading to the loss of peat and associated ecosystems.
What are peat bogs and why are they important?
Peat bogs are wetland ecosystems characterized by the accumulation of partially decomposed organic matter (peat) over thousands of years. They are important for carbon storage, biodiversity, water regulation, and as habitats for specialized plant and animal species.
What are the consequences of peat bog destruction?
Consequences of peat bog destruction include the release of stored carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, loss of biodiversity and specialized habitats, disruption of water cycles, increased flood risk, and degradation of ecosystem services provided by peatlands.
