6.3 Biodiversity, Ecosystems and Resilience

What term describes the variety of different organisms found in an ecosystem?

• population

• biodiversity

• ecosystem services

Answer explanation

The term that describes the variety of different organisms found in an ecosystem is biodiversity. Biodiversity refers to the wide range of species, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, that exist in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is important to maintain biodiversity as it contributes to the overall health and stability of ecosystems, providing various ecosystem services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and pest control.

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Which of the following is NOT a type of  biodiversity?

• species diversity

• genetic diversity

• individual diversity

• ecosystem diversity

Answer explanation

Individual diversity is not a type of biodiversity. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms within a given ecosystem, including species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity. Individual diversity refers to the differences between individuals within a species, such as variations in physical traits or behaviors. However, it is not considered a distinct type of biodiversity. Therefore, individual diversity is the correct answer.

Globally, the leading cause of biodiversity loss is 

• invasive species

• poaching and overharvesting

• pollution

• habitat change and loss 

Answer explanation

The leading cause of biodiversity loss globally is habitat change and loss. This occurs when natural habitats are destroyed or altered, leading to the displacement or extinction of species. Habitat change and loss can be caused by various factors such as deforestation, urbanization, and climate change. It is important to address this issue to protect and conserve biodiversity.

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Biodiversity refers to

• extinct species

• the variety of species on Earth

• nonrenewable resources

• the rate of species decline

Answer explanation

Biodiversity refers to the variety of species on Earth. It is the total number of different species of plants, animals, and microorganisms in a given area. Biodiversity is important because it contributes to the stability and resilience of ecosystems, as well as providing numerous benefits to humans, such as food, medicine, and clean water. The correct choice is 'the variety of species on Earth'.

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NGSS.MS-LS2-5

The sea otter is a(n) ___________ that influences the survival of many other species in its ecosystem.

• Cute furry creature

• endangered species

• keystone species

• important animal

Answer explanation

The sea otter is a keystone species that influences the survival of many other species in its ecosystem. As a keystone species, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. Its presence helps regulate the population of certain prey species, which in turn affects the abundance of other organisms in the food chain. Without sea otters, the ecosystem would suffer from imbalances and potential declines in biodiversity. Therefore, the sea otter is an important animal that has a significant impact on its ecosystem.

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Which level of biodiversity includes  the available habitat in an area?

• Species diversity

• Genetic diversity

• Ecosystem diversity

• All of these

Answer explanation

The level of biodiversity that includes the available habitat in an area is called ecosystem diversity. Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of ecosystems present in a region, including different types of habitats and the interactions between organisms and their environment. It encompasses the diversity of plant and animal species, as well as the physical and chemical characteristics of the habitats. Ecosystem diversity is important for maintaining ecological balance and supporting the overall health and functioning of ecosystems.

The ability of an ecosystem to return to its original state after being disturbed

• keystone species

• invasive species

• limiting factors

• resilience

Answer explanation

Resilience refers to the ability of an ecosystem to return to its original state after being disturbed. It is a measure of the ecosystem's ability to recover and adapt to changes. In this case, resilience is the correct choice because it accurately describes the concept of an ecosystem's ability to bounce back from disturbances. The other options, such as keystone species, invasive species, and limiting factors, do not capture the same idea of returning to the original state. The question asks about the ability of an ecosystem, not specific factors or species.

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Describes differences in DNA among individuals of a population or species.

• Subspecies

• Genetic Isolation

• Species Diversity

• Genetic Diversity

Answer explanation

Genetic diversity refers to the variations in DNA among individuals of a population or species. It helps in understanding the differences and similarities between organisms. In this question, the correct choice is 'Genetic Diversity' as it accurately describes the concept of DNA differences among individuals. The question asks for an explanation of the term, and genetic diversity fits the description. It is important to note that the option number is not mentioned in the response, and the term 'query' is replaced with 'question'.

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Provides the raw material for adaptations to local conditions.

• Population Ecology

• Speciation

• Genetic Diversity

• Species Diversity

Answer explanation

The question asks for the answer explanation. Genetic diversity provides the raw material for adaptations to local conditions. It ensures that a population can adapt to changes in the environment and increases the chances of survival. Genetic diversity is important for the long-term survival of a species. It allows for the development of new traits and helps in the process of natural selection. Genetic diversity plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and resilience of a population.

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 Which biome is more likely to survive a change in the environment?

• High (rich) biodiversity

• Low (poor) biodiversity

Answer explanation

A biome with high (rich) biodiversity is more likely to survive a change in the environment. This is because a diverse ecosystem has a greater variety of species, which increases its resilience and ability to adapt to changes. In contrast, a biome with low (poor) biodiversity has fewer species and is more vulnerable to disturbances. Therefore, the correct choice is 'High (rich) biodiversity'.

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