Chapter 1

Question 1

What is an ecosystem service? List two ecosystem services of wetlands / of mangrove forests

Answer 1

• Ecosystem service: natural environment delivers a number of services to human society = we should preserve and protect natural environments. Important for human well being and difficult to replace
  > Regulating, cultural, supporting, provisioning
• Wetlands: clean water (decomposition of organic material by bacteria + uptake of nutrients by plants), buffer against flooding + erosion
• Mangrove forests: recreational activity + aesthetic value, flood control, nurseries for young fish

Question 2

List and discuss briefly three threats to aquatic ecosystems

Answer 2

• Damming of rivers: blocks fish migration, disrupt flow of sediment + water, reduced biodiversity + low water quality downstream
• Pollution by organic waste leads to reduced O2 levels as decomposers digest organic material and consume oxygen
• Water abstraction/unsustainable use of water leads to drying out of systems
• Increased pollution from fertilizers = increased nutrients = eutrophication