6 Questions
What is the primary factor that determines the Shannon Index of a particular ecosystem?
Species richness and evenness
Which of the following types of diversity is most closely related to the variety of genes within a species or population?
Genetic diversity
What is the primary consequence of habitat fragmentation on animal diversity?
Increase in population decline and extinction
Which of the following is NOT a type of animal diversity?
Evolutionary history
What is the primary benefit of animal diversity to humans in terms of ecosystem services?
Clean air and water
What is the primary consequence of invasive species on native ecosystems?
Outcompetition of native species for resources and habitat
Study Notes
What is Animal Diversity?
- Refers to the variety of different species of animals that exist on Earth
- Encompasses the range of species, from the simplest invertebrates to complex vertebrates
Types of Animal Diversity
- Species Diversity: The number of different species present in an ecosystem or region
- Genetic Diversity: The variety of genes within a species or population
- Ecological Diversity: The range of different ecosystems and habitats present in an environment
- Functional Diversity: The variety of roles and functions that different species play in an ecosystem
Measurement of Animal Diversity
- Species Richness: The number of different species present in an ecosystem or region
- Species Evenness: The relative abundance of each species in an ecosystem or region
- Shannon Index: A mathematical formula used to calculate species diversity and evenness
- Simpson Index: A mathematical formula used to calculate species diversity and dominance
Factors Affecting Animal Diversity
- Habitat Fragmentation: The breaking up of habitats into smaller, isolated areas
- Climate Change: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns that affect species distribution and abundance
- Human Activity: Such as deforestation, pollution, and overhunting, which can lead to population decline and extinction
- Evolutionary History: The history of species evolution and adaptation to their environment
Importance of Animal Diversity
- Ecosystem Services: The benefits that humans derive from functioning ecosystems, such as clean air and water, and nutrient cycling
- Food Security: The availability of a diverse range of food sources, including crops and livestock
- Medicine: The discovery of new medicines and treatments from animal species
- Recreation and Tourism: The economic benefits of wildlife tourism and recreation
Threats to Animal Diversity
- Extinction: The permanent loss of a species
- Endangered Species: Species that are at risk of extinction due to population decline or habitat loss
- Invasive Species: Non-native species that outcompete native species for resources and habitat
- Disease: The spread of diseases that can affect animal populations and ecosystems
Learn about the different types of animal diversity, how it's measured, and the factors that affect it. Discover the importance of animal diversity and the threats it faces.
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