Living Environment Flashcards
Why should biodiversity be conserved?
Biomimetics, physiological research, medicines, resources, ecosystem services, genetic resources, pest control
Why do indigenous species have better genetic diversity?
Because they are adapted to live in that area.
What is biomimetics?
The study of living organisms, so knowledge can be used for human engineering and technological innovation.
Give an example of biomimetics in transport design.
Splayed wingtip feathers of soaring birds reduce drag and wing turbulence. This inspired plane wing design to increase fuel efficiency.
Give an example of biomimetics in infection control.
Bacteria doesn’t easily stick to shark skin. Shark skin-like coatings are used to control bacterial infections in hospitals.
Give an example of biomimetics in architecture.
Termite mounds absorb heat, creating a convection current that pushes out hot, stale air. This is used in office building and shopping centre ventilation systems and heat control.
Give an example of biomimetics in adhesion.
Hooked seeds attach to animal fur for better seed dispersal. This is mimicked in the design of Velcro.
How do plants produce medicines for humans?
They release toxic chemicals to prevent herbivores from eating them. Some of these chemicals are alkaloids that have medical benefits in humans in controlled amounts.
Give two examples of plants that produce medicines.
- Poppies produce Morphine, a painkiller
- Cinchona Trees produce Quinine, which treats Malaria
What is physiological research?
The study of chemical and biological processes in organisms that allow them to perform the tasks and functions to live.
Give two examples of physiological research.
- Marsupials giving birth to young in early development stages and developing in their pouch are easier to study than human embryos. This allows scientists to better understand birth complications like premature birth.
- Marine Sponges produce proteins to prevent rejection of grafts from other individuals. These proteins are being developed to prevent human organ rejections after transplant surgeries.
What are crop wild relative species? (CWR)
Wild plants with the same species as commercial crops with characteristics that can be bred to make more desirable commercial crops.
Why do commercial crops lack genetic diversity?
Because they are produced from a limited number of original plants.
What characteristics can be introduced from CWR species?
Nutrient uptake, improved taste, improved appearance, drought resistance, high yield
What are Vavilov centres?
Areas of the world with very large numbers of plant species of economic importance and high genetic diversity
