Human impact on biodiversity Flashcards
Describe two areas that reflect biodiversity:
The number of species in an area
How evenly distributed the no. of living organisms are spread
What is monoculture?
One species of crop is grown
One advantage of monoculture:
planting and harvesting is more economical - common on large farms
Explain one disadvantage of monoculture:
Allows the build up of pests specific to that one crop
What will happen if there is a build up of pests?
depletion of certain nutrients
decomposition can occur
Why are artificial fertilisers often used?
It helps to maximise crop yield
Rich in nitrate and phosphate
allows crop to out compete slower growing species
When is artificial fertiliser often used?
Used to maintain high stocking rates in livestock farming
What type of pesticide should be avoided as it reduces biodiversity?
Insecticide - kills other living organisms
What type of pesticide should be avoided as it reduces biodiversity?
Insecticide - kills other living organisms
What type of pesticide should be avoided as it reduces biodiversity?
Insecticide - kills other living organisms
What is bioaccumulation?
The build up of concentration in the tissues of organisms at higher trophic levels
What is polyculture?
The growing of a range of different crops at one time/ in one place
Describe an advantage of polyculture:
Allows for the provision of a wider range of food sources and habitats for wildlife
Name a particular type of polyculture:
Crop rotation
