Ecosystem Dynamics and Conservation in Canada

Front

What is the role of the Canadian Endangered Species Conservation Council?

Back

Evaluates ~7,000 species, with 1,659 identified as at risk.

Front

How many species have 75% of their range in Canada and are endemic?

Back

129 species have 75% of their range in Canada, and 99 are endemic.

Front

What economic sectors do species support in Canada?

Back

Species support forestry, agriculture, ecotourism, recreation, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and Indigenous food supplies.

Front

Name some endemic species in Canada.

Back

54 vascular plants, mammals, fish, and mollusks unique to Canada, such as the Vancouver Island marmot and Acadian whitefish.

Front

What beneficial roles do microorganisms and insects play?

Back

Bees fertilize flowers and control pests, crustaceans are vital for fish diets, bacteria recycle nutrients, and fungi contribute to food and medicine.

Front

What were the 2020 goals of the Convention on Biological Diversity?

Back

Protect 17% of terrestrial/inland waters and 10% of coastal waters, inventory biodiversity, develop recovery strategies, conserve wetlands, research climate change impacts, manage resources sustainably, and reduce water pollution.

Front

What challenges did Canada face according to the Auditor General in 2018?

Back

Canada lacked effective leadership and coordination, falling short of 2020 biodiversity goals.

Front

What progress has Canada made in conservation?

Back

Increased protected land areas and some marine mammal populations recovering.

Front

What challenges does Canada face in conservation?

Back

Loss of old-growth forests, river flow changes, wildfire increase, bird population declines, climate changes affecting polar bears and caribou, and Great Lakes impacted by nutrient overloads.

Front

What is the significance of tropical forests?

Back

Tropical forests host over half of the world’s species, with high biodiversity protecting species from predators and improving food acquisition.