Biodiversity and Sustainability Flashcard

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What is biodiversity?

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species, genetic diversity, and the variety of ecosystems.

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Why is biodiversity important for ecosystems?

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Biodiversity is crucial for ecosystem stability, resilience, and productivity. It helps ecosystems recover from disturbances and provides essential services like pollination, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation.

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What is sustainability?

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Sustainability is the ability to maintain ecological balance by using resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

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How does higher biodiversity contribute to sustainability?

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Higher biodiversity usually leads to greater sustainability because it enhances ecosystem resilience, allowing it to better withstand environmental changes and disturbances.

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What happens to sustainability when biodiversity decreases?

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When biodiversity decreases, sustainability also decreases, as ecosystems become less resilient and more vulnerable to changes and disturbances.

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What is an example of a biodiverse ecosystem?

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A tropical rainforest is an example of a biodiverse ecosystem, as it contains a vast number of species, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms.

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What is an example of a less biodiverse ecosystem?

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A tundra is an example of a less biodiverse ecosystem, characterized by fewer species and a harsher climate.

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How can human activities impact biodiversity?

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Human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change can lead to habitat destruction, species extinction, and a decrease in biodiversity.

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What role do predators play in biodiversity?

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Predators help maintain the balance of ecosystems by controlling prey populations, which can promote a diverse range of species within the ecosystem.

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What is the relationship between biodiversity and food security?

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Biodiversity contributes to food security by providing a variety of crops and livestock, which can help ensure a stable food supply and resilience against pests and diseases.