7.3 Protecting Biodiversity Review

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What is the purpose of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)?

Back

To ensure that international trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

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Define biodiversity hot spots.

Back

Regions with unusually large numbers of unique species found in small locations around the planet.

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What are wildlife corridors?

Back

Natural or artificial routes that connect fragmented habitats, allowing wildlife to move between them.

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What is the Endangered Species Act of 1973?

Back

A U.S. law aimed at preventing extinction, recovering imperiled plants and animals, and protecting their ecosystems.

Front

What are native (endemic) species?

Back

Species that belong to or originated from a specific ecosystem.

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What is biodiversity?

Back

The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

Front

Why is protecting biodiversity important?

Back

It helps maintain ecosystem balance, supports food security, and provides resources for medicine and industry.

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What role do treaties play in biodiversity conservation?

Back

Treaties like CITES and the Convention on Biological Diversity establish international agreements to protect endangered species and their habitats.

Front

What is habitat fragmentation?

Back

The process where large habitats are divided into smaller, isolated patches, often due to human activities.

Front

How do invasive species affect biodiversity?

Back

Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, leading to declines in native populations and overall biodiversity.