Puma Conservation and Genetic Rescue

The video discusses the decline of the Florida panther due to genetic issues and habitat fragmentation. It explains the importance of genetic diversity for species survival and the impact of human activities. The concept of genetic rescue is introduced as a potential solution, with examples of its success and failure. The video concludes with the use of model organisms for studying genetic rescue without risking species extinction.

What was the estimated population of the Florida panther in 1994?

• 1,000 individuals

• 500 individuals

• 24 individuals

• 50,000 individuals

Which of the following is NOT a common name for Puma concolor?

• Panther

• Cougar

• Bobcat

• Mountain lion

Why is genetic variation important for a population's survival?

• It ensures all individuals are identical.

• It reduces the need for food.

• It makes individuals look different.

• It increases the likelihood of survival against challenges.

What major factor contributed to the decline of puma populations in North America?

• Natural disasters

• Hunting and habitat fragmentation

• Climate change

• Lack of food

What is the extinction vortex?

• A model describing how large populations are likely to go extinct

• A model describing how small populations are likely to go extinct

• A model describing how large populations are likely to grow

• A model describing how small populations are likely to grow

What is the main goal of genetic rescue?

• To eliminate all genetic variation

• To introduce new genetic material to improve survival

• To create a new species

• To reduce the population size

What was a major risk encountered in the genetic rescue of the alpine ibex?

• The hybrids were too aggressive

• The hybrids bred at the wrong time of year

• The hybrids were too large

• The hybrids were too small

What percentage of mammal species are currently threatened with extinction?

• 75%

• 50%

• 26%

• 10%

Why is it important to use model organisms in genetic rescue studies?

• They are less expensive

• They are more genetically diverse

• They are easier to find

• They allow for ethical experimentation

Which of the following is a challenge faced by many species leading to their decline?

• Excessive genetic diversity

• Habitat fragmentation

• Large population sizes

• Abundance of food