Module 2 : Ecosystem Flashcards
How does biodiversity impact an ecosystems V and R
Biodiversity is defined by the variety of species, ecosystems, and its genetic variability.
Genetic : A high level of genetic diversity favours the survival of a species because it increases the chance that some members of the species will have characteristics that aid their survival if the population experiences stress.
Species : Species diversity is a measure of the number of species at each trophic level of an ecosystem. The greater the species diversity, the more robust the ecosystem: if the population of one producer or consumer organism declines dramatically there are likely to be other producers or consumers available that can fulfil a similar function in the ecosystem.
eg woodland forest comprising 4-5 different species of trees.
ecosystem : Ecosystem diversity refers to the diversity within an ecosystem in terms of habitat differences, biotic communities, and the variety of ecological processes
how does EXTENt impact V and R
. Extent refers to the location and distribution of ecosystems across its landscape. The size of an ecosystem determines its ability to adapt to changes. Ecosystem that are restricted to small areas are especially vulnerable compared to ecosystems spread out. Ecosystems that are restricted to relatively small areas or have already been extensively disturbed are especially vulnerable. Tropical rainforests have relatively small populations of a large number of species confined to relatively small, localised communities. The loss of even a small area of rainforest can lead to the extinction of plant and animal species. Savanna grasslands have large populations of a relatively small number of species spread over much larger areas.
how does LOCATION impact V and R
. An ecosystems Latitude, distance from the sea, altitude and microclimate features can all impact an ecosystem functioning. eg great barrier reef
.
Some ecosystems are located in environments considered extreme: deserts (extreme heat and/or aridity), the polar-regions and high mountain peaks (extreme cold), hypersaline lagoons (extreme salinity) and areas of nutrient deficiency. Organisms capable of living in such conditions have adapted to survive the extreme conditions and are therefore highly specialised. The more specialised an organism is within a particular set of environmental conditions, the more vulnerable it will be to changes in those conditions. Corals are highly specialised organisms that flourish in the relatively shallow, nutrient-deficient waters of the tropics. Corals are also sensitive to changes in water temperature. They normally flourish at temperatures between 25°C and 29°C, depending on their location. This narrow temperature range is very close to their upper lethal temperature
how does LINKAGE impact V and R
Linkages refer to the amount of dependence a species have on one another. The greater the level of interdependence within an ecosystem the greater its ability to absorb change. For example, the loss of a primary consumer from a food web is unlikely to have a major impact on secondary consumers if there is a range of alternative primary consumers on which to feed.
what is utility value
Utility value refers to an ecosystem usefulness of the environment to humans in terms of money and resources. Ecosystems in general are greatly useful as they regulate temperature, regenerate soil and maintain air quality
what is genetic diversity
Genetic diversity is the variation of genetics within a population of the same species. Through variation the process of natural selection can occur, selecting traits that allow the continued survival of organisms. This genetic diversity increases the resilience of the ecosystem allowing them to survive through periods of stress.
what is heritage value
Heritage value is the cultural, historic, environmental, and scientific significance of the place.
stats for GBR
The great barrier is defined at an ecosystem at risk that is located between the bands of 5 degrees south and 24 south on Australia’s northeast coast. It spans between Papua New Guinea and North Fraser Island and is listed as a world heritage site with the size of 346000km.
utility value of GBR
Fishing is a central activity in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park that provides valuable commercial, recreational, and cultural benefits. Commercial fishing in the Marine Park is an important contributor to Australia’s seafood industry and generates approximately $104 million annually. In addition, it holds great importance in the tourism sector in the nations economy with contributing $5.2 billion annually
heritage value of GBR
- declared a World Heritage Area in 1981 because of its ‘outstanding universal value’
- The cultural significance of the Great Barrier Reef to communities has largely been documented through paintings, songs and stories that have been passed down through generations. The Aborigines and Torres Straight people used these waters to gather fish and other natural resources required for their sustenance
what is the latitude of GBR
5 degrees - 24 south
what is the latitude of Intertidal wetlands
32N - 38S
contemporary Management IN GBR
ZONING - activities that can occur in which locations limiting humans’ impact of recreational and commercial misuse. The level of protection increases from the General Use (Light Blue) Zones up to the most restrictive, Preservation Zone. This technique is highly effective with 500-600 fines distributed in 2019 including $2000 fines in Marine National Park Zones.
Project catalyst-
community-based projects across North Queensland
communities that aim to improve water quality across the reef TULLY = where sugar cane is the major crop.
aims to reduce the amount of chemical
pollutants coming off farms. One initiative is to use organic cow manure
as a fertilizer to replace inorganic chemical based fertilizers that release
large amounts of nitrogen. The project, which has been in operation since
2010, is estimated to have improved 150 billion litres of water annually
that flow out onto the reef.
Traditional Management IN GBR
Traditional fishing techniques is one of the most successful management methods. Fishing techniques and tools are fairly labour intensive . They are relatively low intensity, small-scale, and only allow for limited removal of species. Fishing instruments including long multipronged spears, nets, fish traps and barbed harpoons. Underpinning philosophies tend to encourage conservative harvesting, using only what you need and preserving what you can, and care not to overfish. In addition, a variety of species are intentionally targeted when fishing, so there is little impact on any one species. Limits on the size of fish is common to discourage the removal of small organisms and ensure future numbers
traditional management in INTERTIDAL WETLANDS
Grey Mangrove wood, for example, was used to make shields, shells were made into fishing hooks; and marine animals were used for food. Ash island for instance was used for the hunting and fishing of the Worimi people. This indigenous group management strategy was based in the knowledge of individual custodians of the land and implemented strict methods in order to protect this ecosystem. The most impactful strategy included the use of totems. A totem is an animal or natural figure that a clan or tribe believes spiritually defines them. Each clan holds responsibility for looking after the totem and natural features connected to them, to ensure their survival. For these spiritual emblems, it was prohibited for the owner to hunt or kill the species. A
