Global Ecology Flashcards
What are the 4 major topics in global ecology?
Climate change, extinction, biodiversity, value of nature
What is climate change?
An increase in global temperatures and a change in precipitation patterns
Why is climate changing?
Human caused and continuous positive feedback
What effect will climate change have on species?
Species will shift according to their tolerance limits
Can the tolerance of a species change?
Yes, but over a long period of time
What will be the end result of climate change?
Global loss in biodiversity, increase in extinctions
What is extinction?
A natural process by which species that can’t adapt disappear
What is the difference between extirpation and extinction?
Extirpation is loss from an area, extinction is gone from the planet
What causes extinction?
Loss of habitat, introduced species, climate, disease, humans, economic pressures
What is an endangered species?
A species facing imminent extirpation or extinction
What is a threatened species?
A species likely to become endangered if limiting factors aren’t reversed
What is biodiversity?
The variability among living organisms on the planet
For what 4 reasons should biodiversity be conserved?
Intrinsic value, economic value, aesthetic value, potential value
What is an ecosystem function?
A process that naturally occurs within an ecosystem
What is an ecosystem service?
An ecosystem function that benefits us
