People and the Environment: Species Extinction and Exotic Species

The video discusses the vibrant ecosystems of coral reefs and the Florida Everglades, highlighting their high biodiversity. It addresses threats to these ecosystems, such as habitat destruction and the introduction of exotic species, which can lead to the extinction of native species like the Florida Panther. The video also covers the recovery of species like the American alligator and the dangers posed by invasive species disrupting ecological balance.

What is biodiversity?

• The size of a habitat

• The amount of water in an ecosystem

• The variety of species in an area

• The number of plants in an area

Which species in the Florida Everglades is mentioned as endangered?

• American alligator

• Florida Panther

• Australian pine

• Brazilian pepper

What is a major cause of habitat destruction in the Everglades?

• Introduction of exotic species

• Natural disasters

• Climate change

• Conversion to agricultural land

What are exotic species?

• Species that are endangered

• Native plants and animals

• Non-native species introduced to a new area

• Species that have recovered from near extinction

How can exotic species affect an ecosystem?

• By increasing biodiversity

• By providing new habitats

• By stabilizing the ecological balance

• By disrupting the natural ecological balance