Chapter 1 - Diversity of life (Unit 1) Flashcards
What is Biodiversity?
The range of living organisms/different species in an area. Has three stands, Genetic, Species and Ecosystem diversity.
What are Species?
Have the interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Mating occurs naturally.
What is Genetic Diversity?
The first strand of biodiversity. It is the diverse patterns of DNA, that allow for adaptations among organisms. Ex (disease resistance)
What is the importance of Genetic Diversity
Reduces health problems from inbreeding. Inbreeding and monoculture (in plants) create health problems.
What is Species Diversity?
The second strand of biodiversity that includes the # of species in a given area.
What is the importance of Species Diversity?
Each species contributes to an ecosystem, helps develop symbiotic relationships among species. Having high diversity maintains ecosystems and their functions.
What is Ecosystem Diversity?
The various types of Ecosystems in an area. Contain biotic and abiotic components.
What is the importance of Ecosystem Diversity?
Allows for more habitats which result in a higher species diversity and stronger ecosystems.
What is the role of pollinators?
To increase genetic diversity among plants.
(Ex: bees + insects)
What are Ecosystem services?
They include filtering water, cycle nutrients and modify climates.
What are products?
They are produced from plants.
(Ex: Aspirin, Antibiotics)
What are keystone species?
They are species that are the backbone of an ecosystem. They have significant impacts on their ecosystem and without them the ecosystem would be in danger.
What are four natural services that ecosystems provide for the biosphere?
- Medicines
- Prevents soil erosion
- Cycling of nutrients
- Materials for construction
What are the consequences of the loss of biodiversity?
It will result in the changes in food production and natural ecosystem processes. It also means that species will not be able to carry out their roles and tasks.
What is an example of a keystone species? And why are they important?
An example is a honeybee, they impact every aspect of the food chain. They pollinate plants which makes food for cattle, livestock and humans. Without them organisms would starve.
