Guest Lecture #2

Question 1

What are the different aspects of urban biodiversity?

Answer 1

species richness, species evenness (distribution of species population), and functional diversity (differences in roles or functions - niches - of species)

Question 2

What services do urban ecosystems provide?

Answer 2

temperature regulation via tree canopies and flood prevention through diverse vegetation

urban diversity is very important because it surrounds the majority of Canadians (80% live in urban areas)

Question 3

What can low biodiversity in cities lead to?

Answer 3

the benefits of resilience against pests/invasive species, weather, and climate change are lost with low biodiversity

monotonous plants are more at risk of diseases and pests since they are susceptible to the same thing (this happened in Montreal, a lot of canopy cover was lost)

Question 4

What are some benefits of low biodiversity in cities?

Answer 4

monocultures (like streets lined with identical trees) are good for temperature regulation

Question 5

What is the luxury effect?

Answer 5

Wealthier, educated, and predominantly white neighbourhoods have more biodiversity and green spaces.

Marginalized communities face environmental injustice with less access to nature’s contributions.

Question 6

What are contributing factors of the luxury effect?

Answer 6

Historical privilege and advocacy in wealthier areas.

Gentrification driven by new green spaces increases property values and displaces residents.