Ecosystems Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is the biosphere
The living layer of the earth
is known as the biosphere and is found between the lithosphere (rocks
below us) and atmosphere (air above us!)
What is the biosphere divided into
The biosphere is divided into several large living ecosystems, such as the tropical
rainforest, we call these biomes. Each biome has its own climate, plants and animal
species. The tropical rainforest in Brazil, Cameroon and Indonesia have similar vegetation but different individual species (e.g. Jaguars in S. America, Orangutans in Asia) and ecosystems.
What is the human value of the bioshphere
Around the world people directly use the biosphere for materials, food, water, and energy. These are valuable resources for economies and their value can be calculated by the wealth they generate. But this is only possible for valuing the biosphere as it is being exploited, not when it is conserved.
What is the natural value of a bioshphere
The natural value of the planets’ animals, air, water, soils and minerals is huge. Many would think, ‘what’s the value of a forest and soil other than to environmentalists?’ Naturally a forest provides:
- absorbing CO2 to limit climate change
- releasing O2 for air quality
- protecting soil for water purification
- storing water to prevent flooding
- regulating temperatures
- providing a habitat for pollinators which are crucial to food growth
- providing habitats for animals which generate tourism
- providing landscapes for adventure and tourism
What is human value
Human value: Around the world people directly use the biosphere for
materials, food, water, and energy.
What is natural value
Natural value The natural value of the planets’ animals, air, water, soils and
minerals is huge.
What are the 8 world biomes
Tundra, coniferous forrest, Deciduous forrest, Desert, Grasslands, Mediterranean, mountains and Tropical Rainforest.
Where are tropical rainforests in the world
rainforests are found near the Equator
What is an ecosystem
An ecosystem is the study of the living and non living things in an environment where the living things interact between each other and also with the non living environment they are found within.
What is the biotic part of an ecosystem
The living aspects (which containing energy)
What is the abiotic part of an ecosystem
The non-living surroundings
What is an invasive species
An invasive species is an organism that causes ecological or economic harm in a new
environment where it is not native.
What are examples of invasive species
Grey squirrels, cane toad, Parakeets and Hippo’s in Colombia
What does sustainable mean
meeting the needs of the present population without compromising it for the next
generation. To ensure sustainability, environment, people and money should all be considered equally.
What are some reasons for deforestation
Demand for resources, Economic Development, Dept, A growing global population, More people, with more wealth, Global economy and Governments under pressure, poor governance, Changes to global economy.
