7.1 - Our Planet of Life

What determines species diversity in a particular region?

• Number of individuals in a species

• Variety of species in the region

• Climate of the region

• Size of the region

What are the three components of biodiversity?

• Species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity

• Population diversity, habitat diversity, and genetic diversity

• Species diversity, ecosystem diversity, and habitat diversity

• Genetic diversity, ecosystem diversity, and population diversity

Below the species level, organisms may be classified into (a)   based on genetic characteristics.

Taxonomists classify species based on physical appearance and genetic makeup. Species are then placed in a (a)   of categories, called taxonomic groups.

What does genetic diversity provide raw material for?

• Adaptation to local conditions

• Creating new species

• Increasing population size

• Reducing genetic variation

What is the criteria for designating subspecies?

• Physical appearance

• Habitat preference

• Major genetic differences

• Geographical location

Why do populations with more genetic diversity stand better chances of survival and cope better with environmental change?

• Because they are more resistant to diseases and environmental stressors

• Because they have a wider range of traits to adapt to changing conditions

• Because they are less likely to experience inbreeding depression

• Because they have a higher population density

Sometimes, scientists look at the diversity not just of ecosystems, but of community types and (a)   within the ecosystem.

Ecosystem diversity refers to the number and variety of (a)   within a given area.

What is the range of estimates for total species richness when measuring biodiversity?

• 3 million to 100 million

• 1 million to 50 million

• 50 million to 200 million

• 10 million to 150 million