Unit 6: Lesson 1 Biodiversity The key to sustainability of an ecosystem

TEKS: 7.10B Describe how biodiversity contributes to the sustainability of an ecosystem

What is Biodiversity? Biodiversity is the variety of life in an area due to the number of different organisms. It increases the stability and contributes to sustainability (the capacity to endure or last).

Genetic Diversity: The variety of genes or inherited traits present in a population. Genetic diversity increases the chances that some species will survive during changes in the environment. Ex: outbreak of disease

Species Diversity: The number of different species and the abundance of each in a biological community. A species is often defined as the largest group of organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring. A community is known as two or more different species interacting within a specific area. Species diversity increases as you move towards the equator.

Ecosystem Diversity: The variety of ecosystems that are present in the biosphere (life sphere of Earth) An ecosystem is made up of interacting biotic (living) and the abiotic (non-living) factors. Biotic examples: animals, plants, etc. Abiotic examples: temperature, water, air, wind, soil, etc.

Order of Biodiversity on the Earth: Classification of biodiversity from general to specific; or largest to smallest Biome Ecosystem Community Population Species

Biodiversity Analogy: Biome = Royse City School District Ecosystem = Royse City Middle School Community = All people at RCMS Population = All teachers at RCMS Species = Science Teachers

Threats to Biodiversity: Extinction and population reductions Hunting and overharvesting Habitat loss Pollution Climate change Invasive species

Protecting Biodiversity: Stop overharvesting Hunting & fishing laws Protect habitats Refuges, parks, preserves Legal protection Endangered Species Act Marine Mammal Protection Act Migratory Bird Treaty Act Fish Conservation Act