STAS Biodiversity and Healthy Society Flashcards
- Variety of line on Earth, including traits, species, and ecosystems
- Outcome of 3.5 billion years of evolution
- Integral to human survival
Biological Diversity
forms the web of life, of which we are an integral part
Biodiversity
variability among living organisms, ecosystems, and ecological complexes
UN Convention on Biological Diversity (1992)
Interactions of genetic, species, and ecological diversity
Zamora (1997)
Wealth of life on Earth, including genes, species, and ecosystems
WWF (1989)
- Variations among genetic resources
- Importance for adaptability and useful compounds
Genetic Diversity
Variety of species in an area
Species Diversity
- Interactions between biotic and abiotic components
- Terrestrial, marine, and freshwater ecosystems
Ecosystem/Ecological Diversity
- Supports healthy ecosystems
- Addresses climate change
- Integral to culture and identity
- Provides materials, medicines, and recreational opportunities
Importance of Biodiversity
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources ____ (____) claims that in terms of biodiversity, the Philippines was 5th in the world as to number of plant species; 8th in the world list of endemic plants: 4th in endemic birds; 5th in endemic mammals; and 8th in the endemic reptiles
DENR (2009)
- Pollution
- Over-exploitation
- Habitat loss
- Climate change
- Invasive species
Threats to Biodiversity
Protecting species in their natural habitats
In situ Conversation
Protecting species outside their natural habitats
Ex situ Conversation
- Genetically Modified Organisms
- Applications in agriculture and medicine
- Example: Bt corn
GMO’s
- Improved crop yield and growth characterstics.
- Increased nutritional value (e.g. Golden Rice).
- Resistance to pests, drought, and herbicides.
Benefits of GMO’s
