JS - Lesson 1A - Biodiversity Flashcards
What does ‘biological diversity’ mean according to the Convention on Biological Diversity?
The variability among living organisms from all sources including terrestrial, marine, and other aquatic ecosystems, and the ecological complexes of which they are a part
This includes diversity within species, between species, and of ecosystems.
What are the three key elements of biodiversity?
- Genetic Diversity
- Organismal Diversity
- Ecological Diversity
These elements are structured in three nested hierarchies.
True or False: The United States has ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity.
False
Some countries, including the US, have not ratified the treaty.
What is species richness?
A common currency that acts as an integrator of many facets of differences in biodiversity
It is relatively easy to measure and substantial information already exists.
Fill in the blank: The Convention states the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the ________ of the benefits arising.
fair and equitable sharing
This emphasizes the importance of rights over resources and technologies.
What is the primary challenge in measuring biodiversity?
No single measure can fully encapsulate biodiversity; only certain components can be measured
Surrogates are often used to represent biodiversity.
What potential does environmental DNA (eDNA) hold for biodiversity science?
It has the potential to revolutionize biodiversity science/conservation by allowing census of species on a global scale in near real-time
eDNA is particularly important in aquatic systems.
List the hierarchical levels at which biodiversity can be measured.
- Kingdoms/Domains
- Biomes
- Phyla
- Families
- Genera
- Species
- Subspecies
- Populations
- Individuals
- Chromosomes
- Genes
- Nucleotides
These levels represent a wide range of biological organization.
What is a notable limitation of species richness as a measure of biodiversity?
It is more difficult to apply to microbial and marine biodiversity
These areas require alternative measures or surrogates.
What is the significance of the number of genera in biodiversity measurement?
It serves as a surrogate correlating with the measure of biodiversity desired
This can help in estimating species richness.
What does the term ‘surrogacy’ refer to in the context of measuring biodiversity?
Correlates of the measure of biodiversity that you want
Surrogates can include various metrics such as the number of species or genera.
What has been the trend in biodiversity conservation efforts over the last 30 years?
Despite problems, conservation efforts continue to evolve and adapt
The Convention has been in effect for over 30 years and has seen various challenges.
