Biological Diversity and Conservation Chapter 5 Biological Diversity and Conservation

Biological Diversity Biodiversity – variety of life in an area Areas Differ In Biodiversity Number of species increases as you move towards the equator Tropical regions = 2/3 of all land species Number of species tends to increase as area size increases

Importance of Biodiversity Beauty Nature Organisms depend on one another for existence Biodiversity brings stability to areas People depend on other organisms for our needs Leads to improved health (Living pharmacy)

Loss of Biodiversity Extinction – disappearance of a species when the last of its members dies (Dodo Bird)

Loss of Biodiversity Threatened Species – occurs when the population of a species rapidly declines

Loss of Biodiversity Endangered Species – when populations of a species becomes so low that extinction is possible (Red Wolf)

Threats to Biodiversity Habitat Loss Habitat Fragmentation – the separation of wilderness areas from other wilderness areas Biotic Issues – Loss of trees, Abiotic Issues Habitat Degradation – damage to a habitat by pollution Acid Rain Ozone Layer Water Pollution Land Pollution

Threats to Biodiversity Introduction of new species Exotic Species – organisms that are not native to a particular area Ex. Sea Lamprey Ex. Kudzu Vine

Conservation Biology The study of methods and implementation of plans to protect biodiversity A. Legal Protection U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973 made it illegal to harm any species on the endangered or threatened lists B. Preserving Habitats Protect Whole Ecosystems Establish Parks Sustainable Use – allow for people use the resources of an area in ways that will not damage the ecosystem

Conservation Biology C. Habitat Corridors – Natural strips that allow the migration of organisms from one area to another D. Reintroduction Programs – the release of organisms into the species once lived New suitable habitats E. Captivity – an organism that is held by people is said to be in captivity