Biodiversity Hotspot Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is a biodiversity hotspot?

A natural ecosystem where native species are well represented. (correct)

A man-made ecosystem.

An area with no native species.

A location that has low species diversity.

How does the IUCN classify biodiversity hotspots?

Less than 10% of the global surface supports more than 70% of biological diversity and is highly endemic and at high threat.

Why does Australia have so many hotspots?

Because Australia is isolated and animals have had time to evolve.

Why does Western Australia have so many hotspots, and what is an example of an endemic species?

Because it is separated from the continent by desert and home to the endangered western swamp tortoise. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a biodiversity hotspot?

The Great Barrier Reef, Queensland. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the Great Barrier Reef a hotspot?

Home to over 1,500 species of fish, 411 types of hard coral, and various threatened marine species. Signup and view all the answers

What are the threats to the Great Barrier Reef?

Climate change and human destruction. Signup and view all the answers

What are we doing to minimize threats to the Great Barrier Reef?

Implementing legislation, zoning plans, research, partnerships, education, and the Great Barrier Reef Biodiversity Conservation Strategy 2013. Signup and view all the answers

What species of the Great Barrier Reef are threatened?

Marine turtles, dugongs, and whales. Signup and view all the answers

What is biodiversity?

The variety of life within the biosphere, measured on three levels: species, genetic, and ecosystem diversity. Signup and view all the answers

What is an endemic species?

Species that belong to a specific area and are found nowhere else, often endangered. Signup and view all the answers

What is topography?

The arrangement of physical features, both natural and artificial, of an area. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Biodiversity Hotspots Overview

Biodiversity hotspots are largely intact ecosystems with well-represented native species and communities.
Hotspots feature a high diversity of endemic species, which are unique to the area.

IUCN Classification

Biodiversity hotspots cover less than 10% of the Earth's surface.
Despite their small area, they support over 70% of the planet's biological diversity.
These regions are characterized by high endemism and high levels of threat.

Australia’s Biodiversity Hotspots

Australia's isolation has allowed time for the evolution of diverse species.
The country's uniqueness contributes to the presence of numerous biodiversity hotspots.

Western Australia Hotspots

Western Australia is isolated from the mainland by deserts, leading to unique evolutionary paths for plants and animals.
An example of an endemic species in the region is the endangered western swamp tortoise.

Example of a Biodiversity Hotspot

The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland is a significant biodiversity hotspot.

Significance of the Great Barrier Reef

It is home to over 1,500 species of fish.
Contains 411 types of hard coral and one-third of the world’s soft corals.
Supports 134 species of sharks and rays, six of the world’s seven threatened marine turtle species, and 30 species of marine mammals, including the vulnerable dugong.

Threats to the Great Barrier Reef

Climate change has led to eight mass coral bleaching events since 1979.
Human activities have resulted in significant destruction of the ecosystem.

Mitigation Strategies

Various strategies are in place to minimize threats, including legislation and zoning plans.
Research, partnerships, and education efforts support compliance measures.
The Great Barrier Reef Biodiversity Conservation Strategy (2013) outlines management frameworks for the Reef's biodiversity.

Threatened Species in the Great Barrier Reef

Marine turtles, dugongs, and whales are among the threatened species in this ecosystem.

Understanding Biodiversity

Biodiversity encompasses the variety of life in the biosphere and is measured at three levels: species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity.

Endemic Species Definition

Endemic species are those that are found exclusively in a specific area and are often endangered.

Topography Definition

Topography refers to the arrangement of physical features in an area, including both natural and artificial landscapes.

Description

Test your knowledge on biodiversity hotspots with these flashcards! Explore what defines a biodiversity hotspot and learn how the IUCN classifies these unique ecosystems. Ideal for students and enthusiasts alike!