Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health

The video tutorial introduces biodiversity, explaining it as the variety of species in an ecosystem and their abundance. It highlights the importance of biodiversity and the threats it faces, such as habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species, climate change, and exploitation. The tutorial also discusses endangered species, their role as indicators of environmental issues, and the concept of extinction, using examples like the spotted owl and a type of sparrow.

What does the term 'biodiversity' refer to?

• The variety of ethnic groups in a region

• The total number of different species in an ecosystem

• The number of trees in a forest

• The amount of pollution in an area

Why is biodiversity important for ecosystems?

• It ensures the survival of only one species

• It reduces the number of species in an ecosystem

• It helps in the growth of monocrops

• It maintains the balance and interdependence among species

What is considered the number one threat to biodiversity?

• Habitat destruction

• Invasive species

• Climate change

• Pollution

How does cheat grass affect native plant species?

• It reduces the amount of sunlight reaching native plants

• It helps native plants grow faster

• It increases the frequency and intensity of wildfires

• It provides nutrients to native plants

Which of the following is NOT a threat to biodiversity?

• Exploitation of species

• Increased biodiversity

• Global climate change

• Pollution

What happens to species that cannot adapt quickly to climate change?

• They thrive and increase in number

• They migrate to colder regions

• They become extinct

• They develop new traits instantly

What is the primary reason for the exploitation of certain animal species?

• For their aesthetic value

• For their horns or specific body parts

• To increase biodiversity

• To reduce their population

What is an endangered species?

• A species that is not affected by habitat destruction

• A species that has already gone extinct

• A species that is in immediate danger of extinction

• A species that is thriving in its habitat

How do endangered species act as indicators?

• They show the health of an ecosystem

• They determine the amount of pollution

• They indicate the number of species in an area

• They predict weather patterns

What does it mean when a species is classified as extinct?

• It is found only in specific regions

• It is thriving in its natural habitat

• It is no longer living anywhere on Earth

• It is no longer found in the wild but exists in captivity