Biodiversity Flashcards
(25 cards)
What are the three levels at which biodiversity can be considered?
Habitat, species, and genetic levels.
What is habitat biodiversity?
Variety of ecosystems or environments.
What is species biodiversity?
Variety and abundance of species in an area.
What is genetic biodiversity?
Genetic variation within species.
What is the purpose of sampling in biodiversity studies?
To estimate biodiversity accurately.
What is random sampling?
Every individual has equal chance of selection.
What is opportunistic sampling?
Based on what’s easily available.
What is stratified sampling?
Sample proportionally to sub-groups.
What is systematic sampling?
Sample at regular intervals
Name four techniques used for sampling organisms.
Quadrats, sweep nets, pitfall traps, pooters.
What is species richness?
Number of different species
What is species evenness?
Relative abundance of species
What is Simpson’s Index of Diversity?
D = 1 - Σ(n/N)² where n = number of individuals per species, N = total individuals.
What does a high value of Simpson’s Index mean?
High diversity and ecosystem stability
How can genetic biodiversity be calculated?
number of polymorphic loci ÷ total number of loci.
What is a polymorphic gene locus?
A gene locus with more than one allele.
What factors affect biodiversity?
Habitat destruction, climate change, monoculture
What are the ecological reasons for maintaining biodiversity?
Maintain interdependence and gene pool.
What are the economic reasons for maintaining biodiversity?
Resources, medicine, tourism, stability.
What are the aesthetic reasons for maintaining biodiversity?
Enjoyment, inspiration, mental wellbeing.
What is in situ conservation?
Protect in natural habitat
What is ex situ conservation?
Protect in natural habitat
Give examples of in situ conservation methods.
Wildlife reserves, marine zones
Give examples of ex situ conservation methods.
Seed banks, botanic gardens, zoos
