Unit 2- Biomes Flashcards
Biome
Refers to a region of the world characterised by life, environment and climate
3 Characteristics of Rainforests
High rainfall
High temperatures
Dense canopies- Lot of Vegetation
Characteristics of Oceans
Aquatic biomes are home to a variety of plant and animal life.
Influences: Aquatic biomes are influenced by a number of factors, including:
Sunlight
Nutrient availability
Salt level
Dissolved oxygen concentration
Suspended particles and minerals
3 Stakeholders of Amazon Rainforest
Indigenous peoples: Have been the guardians of the Amazon’s tropical forests for thousands of years
Environmental groups: Want to preserve the rainforest in its natural state
Local people: Depend on the forest resources for sustenance.
Sustainability
Sustainability means ensuring that the needs of people today are met whilst ensuring that future generations can meet their needs
Sustainable forest management ensures that forests are renewed at a faster pace than they are deforested.
Involves:
Protecting biodiversity
Local community improvements
3 Challenges faced to sustainably manage Rainforests
Tropical rainforests are located in emerging and developing countries, often the main concern is making money rather than sustainable development
Population growth increases pressure on the forest areas with more people looking for areas to live and jobs
Climate change can impact on the forest even where sustainable forest management is been practiced
2 International Strategies and Organisations to protect Rainforests
REDD –> Organisation to protect forests and is funded by countries and TNC’s to offset their carbon emissions
CACC –> Treaty to limit fishing, hunting and logging
3 main threats to Coral Reefs
- Development + Tourism
- Overfishing + Harvesting
- Pollution
Management of Great Barrier Reef (2)
-World Heritage Site-: Lawful protection and global recognition
- Reef 2050 plan: Long term plan for reef sustainability involving local communities and companies
