Define species richness.
The number of different species present in a given area
It is a key component of biodiversity.
What does species evenness refer to?
The relative abundance of different species in a given area
It helps to understand the distribution of species.
What is meant by habitat diversity?
The variety of different habitats within a particular area
It contributes to overall biodiversity.
Define species diversity.
The variety of species within a particular habitat or ecosystem
It includes both species richness and species evenness.
What is genetic diversity?
The total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species
It is crucial for the adaptability and survival of species.
What does biodiversity encompass?
- Species richness
- Species evenness
- Genetic diversity
- Habitat diversity
It is essential for ecosystem resilience and function.
Define resilience in an ecological context.
The ability of an ecosystem to recover from disturbances
Resilience is influenced by biodiversity.
What is habitat destruction?
The process in which natural habitat is rendered unable to support the species present
It is a major threat to biodiversity.
Define habitat degradation.
The deterioration of the habitat’s quality, affecting its ability to support life
It can result from pollution, invasive species, and other factors.
What does habitat fragmentation refer to?
The process where large habitats are broken into smaller, isolated patches
It can lead to decreased biodiversity and increased edge effects.
What is air pollution?
The presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere
It can affect both human health and ecosystems.
Define light pollution.
Excessive or misdirected artificial light in the environment
It can disrupt ecosystems and wildlife behavior.
What is noise pollution?
Harmful or annoying levels of noise in the environment
It can impact both human health and wildlife.
Define soil pollution.
The contamination of soil with harmful substances
It can affect plant growth and enter the food chain.
What is the maximum sustainable yield?
The largest yield (or catch) that can be taken from a specific fish stock or resource over time
It aims to maintain the population’s health and sustainability.
What does the IUCN Red List represent?
A comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of biological species
It assesses the risk of extinction for species.
Define conservation biology.
The scientific study of nature and of Earth’s biodiversity with the aim of protecting species, their habitats, and ecosystems
It integrates various disciplines to address biodiversity loss.
What is preservation biology?
A branch of biology focused on the protection of species and their habitats from extinction
It emphasizes maintaining ecosystems in their natural state.
Define flagship species.
Species that are used as symbols for conservation efforts
They often garner public support for broader environmental initiatives.
What are keystone species?
Species that have a disproportionately large effect on their environment relative to their abundance
Their removal can lead to significant changes in the ecosystem.
What are edge effects?
Changes in population or community structures that occur at the boundary of two habitats
They can lead to increased biodiversity but also to vulnerabilities.
Define ecotones.
Transitional areas between two different ecosystems or habitats
They often have unique species and higher biodiversity.
