Bioaccumulation 9 Flashcards
What is the difference in bioaccumulation and biomagnification?
Bioacc: chemical enters organism when they eat
Biomag: concentration of chemicals get stronger each trophic level
What is a keystone species and explain why it is one
They are a vital part of the ecosystem. If one suffers then every other organism gets affected
What are persistent organic pollutants?
(POP) carbon obtaining compounds that remain in water and soil for many years
What human activities have resulted in high levels of lead in the ecosystem?
Electronics
What are the harmful effects for lead?
Anemia, nervous, and reproduction damage
What human activities lead to the cadmium levels in soil and water?
Plastic
Nickel and cadmium batteries
Which organisms are affected by high levels of cadmium
Earthworm and fish
Main source of cadmium for humans?
Smoking
What human activities cause an increase of mercury?
Burning fossil fuel, waste incineration mining, batteries
Why is mercury harmful?
They bioaccumulate in brains, hearts and lungs.
What is bioremedication?
The use of micro organisms to help get rid of toxic chemicals
