Unit 3 Key area 8 Flashcards
Explain the results of overexploitation of natural resources?
Overexploitation of natural resources causes populations to be reduced to very low levels but still able to recover.
Why is genetic diversity so important in small communities?
As small communities that lack genetic diversity can resort to inbreeding which reduces the reproductive rate
State what has been the effect of clearing habitats?
Habitat fragmentation
Describe the effects of degradation of the edges of habitat fragments?
Degradation of the edges of fragments has caused increased competition as fragments get smaller and natural resources become more scarce. This can result in a decrease in biodiversity
What can be said about more isolated fragments and smaller fragments?
Smaller or more isolated fragments will exhibit a lower species diversity
What methods can we use to remedy habitat fragmentation?
To remedy widespread habitat fragmentation we can link fragments together using habitat corridors.
Describe how habitat corridors work?
Habitat corridors allow increased movement between fragments increasing access to food and choice of mate. Habitat corridors can lead to repopulation of fragments after local extinctions.
Define “introduced species”?
Introduced species are species that humans either intentionally or accidentally have moved to another geographical location
Define “naturalised species”?
Naturalised species are a species that have become established within wild communities.
Define the term “invasive species”?
Invasive species are species that spread rapidly and eliminate native species, therefore reducing species diversity.
Invasive species may be free of natural predators that limit their population in their local habitats. Invasive species may prey on native species, be parasitic to them, or hybridise with native species.
