Chapter 13- Restoration Ecology

Front

What are wetlands and why are they ecologically important?

Back

Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, either permanently or seasonally. They are ecologically important because they serve as habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife, help filter pollutants, and provide flood protection.

Front

What happens to flood risks when levees are built and wetlands are drained?

Back

Flood risks increase because water moves into rivers more quickly, leading to higher flood peaks and more severe flooding.

Front

Define ecological restoration.

Back

Ecological restoration is the process of repairing damage caused by humans to the biodiversity of natural ecosystems.

Front

What is the difference between restoration and reclamation in ecology?

Back

Restoration focuses on returning an ecosystem to its original state, while reclamation involves making a degraded ecosystem usable again, often for human purposes.

Front

What is bioremediation?

Back

Bioremediation is the use of living organisms, often microbes, to remove or neutralize contaminants from a polluted area.

Front

Why are bison considered the best grazing animals for reestablishing tallgrass prairies?

Back

Bison are native herbivores that help maintain the health of tallgrass prairies by grazing, which promotes the growth of native grasses and prevents woody plant encroachment.

Front

What role do wetlands play in flood control?

Back

Wetlands absorb excess rainwater and slowly release it, reducing the speed and volume of water that flows into rivers and streams, thus mitigating flooding.

Front

What is the significance of biodiversity in ecosystems?

Back

Biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience, productivity, and stability, allowing ecosystems to better withstand environmental changes and disturbances.

Front

What is the purpose of creating biodiversity hot spots?

Back

Biodiversity hot spots are areas that are prioritized for conservation due to their high levels of endemic species and significant habitat loss.

Front

How does the introduction of native species aid in ecological restoration?

Back

Introducing native species helps restore the natural balance of the ecosystem, supports local wildlife, and enhances the resilience of the ecosystem.