Environmental Science - Ch 11 Flashcards
Biodiversity
The variety of life across all levels of biological organization (from genes to ecosystems).
Species
A group of organisms that share unique characteristics who can interbreed and produce fertile offspring
Ecosystem Diversity
The number and variety of ecosystems, communities, or habitats in a given area
Species Richness
Number of different species in a given area
Species Diversity
The variety of species found in a region along with the relative abundance of each species
Genetic Diversity
The difference in DNA among individuals of a species
Latitudinal Gradient in Species Diversity
Species richness generally increases as one approaches the equator
Bio Blitzes
Volunteers search for organisms and document biodiversity
Bio - Prospecting
The search for organisms who may provide new foods, medicines, or other products
Biophilia
The instinctive love humans have for nature and the emotional bond we have with other living things
Extinction
The last member of a species dies and the entire species ceases to exist
Extirpation
The loss of a species from one area but not the entire world
Background Extinction Rate
The rate at which organisms independently go extinct
Habitat Fragmentation
Makes habitats smaller and prevents movement of organisms between habitats
Poaching
The illegal killing of wildlife for meat or body parts
Invasive Species
Non - native species introduced to new environments
Conservation Biology
The study of how to protect and restore biological diversity
Endangered Species Act
Offers protection to species that fall within Endangered or Threatened
Convention on Biological Diversity
A treaty that provides funding and incentives for conservation in developing countries
Cloning
A scientific process that creates a genetic replica of an organism, cell, or DNA sequence
