The Biodiversity Crisis Chapter 55

Types of biodiversity Genetic diversity: Species diversity: Genetic differences within a single population and among geographically separate populations Species diversity: All the different species on our planet Ecosystem diversity: The variety of interactions within and among Earth’s different ecosystems

Loss of biodiversity Extinction is a natural biological process The rate of extinction is now 50-500 times the natural rate Other mass extinctions have occurred in Earth’s history This one is different in that it is: due to human activities compressed into a short time frame happening much faster than new species evolution can occur

Ways to protect biodiversity Protection of habitats Habitat loss/degradation is the number one cause of threatened and endangered species in the U.S. Most of these species are ‘specialists’ – species that occupy a narrow niche and have specific requirements Habitat fragmentation makes it worse Degradation of habitat through pollution can also cause problems

Ways to protect biodiversity… Control invasive species Biotic pollution introduces a non-native species into an area It may prey on native species or compete for food or habitat There may not be any natural controls in that ecosystem – such as predators or disease – to limit their population

Ways to protect biodiversity… Control other human activities Pest eradication practices Overhunting Poaching Commercial harvesting

Conservation Biology In situ conservation Ex situ conservation Preservation of ecosystems Biodiversity hotspots – areas in critical need of help Restoration ecology – try to return an ecosystem to it’s former state Ex situ conservation Preservation of the individual species Artificial insemination Host mothering

Legal protections U.S. Endangered Species Act Species listed must be protected Species are listed without regard for economic impact of the listing Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) Enforcement varies from country to country