Biodiversity and Conservation Quiz

Study Notes

Inbreeding reduces genetic variation, leading to lower survivability.
Species richness is a measure of biodiversity, but not the only one.
Biodiversity encompasses variety in forms, levels, and interactions of life.
Conservation prioritizes species based on various factors, not all species have equal priority.
Tourism can be an ecosystem service, but it is a cultural service, not a provisioning service.
Mutations can positively or negatively impact biodiversity.
Extinctions can promote biodiversity by removing dominant species, allowing other species to thrive.
The sixth extinction is unique because it’s driven by human activity and is occurring at an unprecedented rate.

The sixth extinction is significantly different from past mass extinctions due to its human-caused nature and fast pace.
To effectively address the sixth extinction, we need to stabilize climate and population growth according to Lester Brown.
Progress on stabilizing climate and population remains uncertain and faces significant challenges.

Smaller populations have reduced genetic diversity, making adaptation harder.
Habitat and geographic restrictions limit species' ability to move and adapt.
Harmful genes can dominate in small populations due to genetic drift.
Habitat loss and degradation, particularly deforestation, are major threats to biodiversity.
Construction projects fragment habitats and create barriers for species movement, posing a risk of collisions.
Overexploitation of resources depletes populations and disrupts ecosystems.

The IUCN Red List assesses the conservation status of species and identifies those at risk.
The Philippine Magpie-Robin (Cospychus mindanensis) is listed as ‘Vulnerable’ due to its wide distribution and adaptable nature.
The Black Shama (Cospychus cebuensis) is more vulnerable due to its restricted range, small population, and dependence on primary and secondary forests.