what is biodiversity?

Question 1

Genetic Diversity

Answer 1

Genetic Diversity: Refers to the diversity that exist among organisms of the same species (DNA or genetic material)

• This is true for every species, including bacteria, which allow for antibiotic resistance

Question 2

Species Diversity

Answer 2

Refers to the number and relative abundance of different species all inhabiting the same ecosystem; this is the most common level of biodiversity that people think of

Question 3

Ecosystem Diversity

Answer 3

Refers to the diversity that exists among different types of habitats and biological nteractions within a certain area of the world; can also be used to describe similar ecosystmes with differences

Question 4

Ways to Measure Biodiversity

Answer 4

• Measure species diversity by counting up all of the different species in an ecosystem
• Measure functional diversity by counting up all of the different functions in an ecosystem because multiple species could be serving the same function. If a species is removed, another organism may be able to fulfill its function

Question 5

Foundation Species

Answer 5

• A foundation species are extremely important to the continued maintenance of an existing ecosystem and its structure; usually abundant
• They have the most impact on an ecosystem via non-trophic interactions with many different species
• They are usually primary producers or occupy lower trophic levels

Question 6

Keystone Species

Answer 6

• a disproportionate impact on its ecosystem compared to its relatively low abundance in that ecosystem
• has the most impact on an ecosystem via trophic interactions with a single or few prey species
• Often times they are high trophic level predators
• A sea Otter is a keystone species; they help keep the population of sea urchins down to protect kelp