Climate and Ecosystems Quiz

Explain how high atmospheric pressure influences the climate of hot deserts.

Suggest reasons why some animals live in the canopy but others live in the ground cover in a tropical rainforest.

• Some are able to climb/fly, whereas others are not

• Some need shelter/protection

• Food supplies available (in canopy/at ground level)

• Different habitats/nesting areas, etc

Explain why large amounts of deforestation have occurred in tropical rainforests.

• Economic development (for country)

• Corruption

• Large area so difficult to monitor

• To earn money (individuals)/valuable wood

• Logging/timber/furniture/paper

What is the climate of Malaysia?

What are the main causes of deforestation in Malaysia?

• Logging

• Energy production

• Mining

• Commercial plantations

What are the effects of deforestation on soil?

• Soil erosion

• Loss of biodiversity

• Local climate change

• Global climate change

What adaptations do plants in the Namib Desert have?

• Welwitschia mirabilis has two leaves

• Nara plant has spikes instead of leaves

• Quiver Tree stores water in its trunk

• Camel Thorn Tree has a shallow root system

What threats does tourism pose to the Namib Desert?

• Soil recovery takes over 2000 years

• Destruction of essential lichens and plants

• Increased water usage

• Pollution of air and water

How does illegal poaching affect the food web?

• Decreases animal populations

• Destroys habitats

• Increases competition for resources

• Has no significant impact

What is the impact of agriculture on the Namib Desert?

• Increases salt levels in soil

• Reduces plant life

• Increases water resources

• Promotes biodiversity