amazon rainforest Flashcards
(26 cards)
What valuable resources are extracted through logging in the Amazon?
Hardwoods like mahogany and teak, used in furniture and construction.
How is farming contributing to deforestation in the Amazon?
Land is cleared for cattle ranching (Brazil is the largest beef exporter) and soya farming.
What minerals are mined in the Amazon region?
Gold, bauxite, and iron ore are extracted through mining.
How does the Amazon contribute to energy production?
Rivers like the Rio Madeira support HEP projects such as the Belo Monte Dam.
What infrastructure project opens the Amazon for development?
The Trans-Amazonian Highway, promoting settlement and access.
How is ecotourism an opportunity in the Amazon?
Provides sustainable income and education, especially in Ecuador and Peru.
How many species are lost yearly due to deforestation in the Amazon?
Over 50,000 species are lost each year due to habitat destruction.
How does deforestation in the Amazon affect climate change?
Releases 1.5 billion tonnes of CO₂ annually, reducing its role as a carbon sink.
How does deforestation impact the soil?
Causes soil erosion, nutrient leaching, and land degradation.
What happens to the water cycle due to deforestation?
Reduced transpiration decreases rainfall, increasing risk of droughts.
How are indigenous tribes affected by deforestation?
Tribes like the Yanomami face displacement and cultural loss.
How much of the Amazon is protected and give an example?
Over 40% is protected; e.g., Tumucumaque National Park.
What is sustainable logging and what certification is used?
Selective logging using schemes like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification.
What is agroforestry and why is it useful?
Combines crops and trees, protecting soil and biodiversity.
How does ecotourism help the Amazon?
Provides low-impact tourism, supporting local communities and conservation.
How do international countries help reduce deforestation?
Countries like Norway fund the Amazon Fund for conservation efforts.
What reforestation program aims to restore the Amazon?
“Plant a Billion Trees” helps restore forest cover.
What is the function of drip tips on rainforest leaves?
Help shed heavy rain quickly to avoid fungal growth.
How do waxy leaves help rainforest plants?
Repel water and reduce water loss.
What is the purpose of buttress roots?
Provide stability and help absorb surface nutrients.
How do lianas and vines survive in the rainforest?
They climb trees to reach sunlight in the canopy.
What are epiphytes and why do they grow on trees?
Plants like orchids grow on other plants to reach light without rooting in poor soil.
How are sloths adapted to the rainforest?
Move slowly to avoid predators and have algae on fur for camouflage.
What adaptation helps toucans eat fruit?
Long, lightweight beaks to reach fruit on thin branches.
