Biodiversity Measurements

Question 1

Genetic Diversity

Answer 1

Each species is composed of individuals with their own set of genes. A gene is the inheritance unit by which generations can inherit the features of their parents.

Question 2

Why is Genetic Diversity important?

Answer 2

Its important because it could ensure that certain groups of individuals, species or populations will be able to adapt to. certain environmental factors. It also renders them the ability to resist emerging diseases and epidemics.

Question 3

Species Diversity

Answer 3

Two main factors taken into account when measuring species diversity are richness and abundance.

Question 4

Species Richness

Answer 4

A measure of the number of different kinds of organisms present in a particular area. Species richness is the number of different species present.

Question 5

Relative Abundance

Answer 5

Compares the similarity of the population size of each of the species present.

Question 6

Species Abundance

Answer 6

Evenness is a measure of the relative abundance of the different species making up the richness of an area.

Question 7

Ecosystem Diversity

Answer 7

Refers to the number of distinct ecosystems present in a defined area.