A4.2 Conservation of Biodiversity Review

Define 'anthropogenic' and describe three significant anthropogenic factors contributing to species extinction.

​ (a)   is defined as the variety and abundance of different ecosystems present in a geographical area. ​ (b)   is the genetic variability within a species or population. ​ (c)   is the number and relative abundance of species found in a specific area.

• Ecosystem diversity
• Genetic diversity
• Species diversity

What provides evidence for a higher level of biodiversity now compared to any time in the past?

The fossil record documents the history of life on Earth, revealing a gradual increase in species diversity over geological time. Analysis of fossil data indicates that current biodiversity levels are significantly higher than those observed in any previous era. This evidence supports the idea that evolution has led to a progressive accumulation of species richness."

Summarize how introducing new invasive species, such as Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica), to ecosystems affect biodiversity?

Compare and contrast the species richness and species evenness of the two forests.

A) State the key difference between the current sixth mass extinction and the previous mass extinctions.

B) State one possible cause of the extinction of the Moa.

C) In the past, scientists thought that the kiwi (Apteryx haastii), a flightless bird based in New Zealand, was the Moa’s closest living relative. However, this has been disproven. State what evidence scientists may have found to disprove this relationship.

D) The Moa’s closest living relatives are the South American Tinamou (Tinamus major), which have the ability to fly. Explain why these birds are less likely to go extinct than the Moa.

E) Another animal at risk of extinction is the Javan rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus), shown in the image below. There are thought to be fewer than 80 in the world. Suggest two methods scientists could use to prevent its extinction, with a reason for each.