1. Biological Diversity and Conservation
Chapter 5
Biological Diversity and Conservation

2. 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

3. 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)

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

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

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

7. 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

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

9. 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

10. 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