ES CH 7

Front

What is DDT and why is it harmful to predatory birds?

Back

DDT is a pesticide that causes thinning of the eggshells in predatory birds, leading to decreased survival rates of their offspring.

Front

What is the greatest threat to wild species?

Back

The greatest threat to wild species is habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation.

Front

What impact do invasive species have on endangered species?

Back

Over 40% of endangered species in the United States are at risk due to competition from invasive species.

Front

What is a shortcoming of national wildlife refuges?

Back

Oil drilling is allowed on refuge lands, which can harm wildlife habitats.

Front

What defines an endangered species?

Back

A species is considered endangered if it has so few individual survivors that the species could soon become extinct.

Front

What is habitat loss?

Back

Habitat loss refers to the destruction or alteration of the natural environment where species live, often due to human activities.

Front

What are invasive species?

Back

Invasive species are non-native organisms that spread widely in a new habitat and can cause harm to native species and ecosystems.

Front

How does overharvesting threaten species?

Back

Overharvesting occurs when species are removed from their habitats at a rate faster than they can reproduce, leading to population declines.

Front

What is the Convention on Biological Diversity?

Back

The Convention on Biological Diversity is an international treaty aimed at conserving biological diversity, promoting sustainable use of its components, and ensuring fair sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources.

Front

What role do national wildlife refuges play in conservation?

Back

National wildlife refuges are protected areas established to conserve wildlife and their habitats, but they may have limitations such as allowing oil drilling.