Biodiversity Overview Quiz

A species that is not native to an area and causes harm to the environment.

A species that is found only in a specific geographic area.

Areas with a high concentration of endemic species and a high threat of extinction.

Lionfish are an invasive species that negatively impact coral reefs by consuming fish that control algae growth.

Grey squirrels, introduced from North America, outcompete native squirrels and damage trees.

Habitat destruction is a major threat to biodiversity hotspots, especially in tropical biomes.

A method to control invasive species by paying individuals to hunt and remove them.

Marketing invasive species as a food source to encourage consumption and population control.

A process where organisms with traits that make them better adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those beneficial traits to their offspring.

The formation of a new species through evolution, often due to isolation and genetic differences.

The inability of two different species to successfully reproduce or produce fertile offspring.

The occurrence of a species exclusively within a specific geographic area.

The intentional breeding of organisms by humans to select for desirable traits.

Changes in DNA or chromosomes.

Variations within a species due to mutation.

The process of selecting for desired traits in plants or animals through controlled breeding.

Sites that significantly contribute to global biodiversity conservation. They harbor threatened species, ecosystems, and ecologically intact areas, playing a crucial role in maintaining biological processes and species survival.

Areas under high threat but with limited damage and no extinct species. They are often rich in endemic species and need urgent conservation efforts.

The cumulative genetic changes within a species over generations, leading to new distinct species from a common ancestor.

The first life form on Earth, marking the origin of all life. It existed roughly 4 billion years ago.

The period marked by human activities causing significant geological and biological changes, potentially leaving lasting traces in the fossil record.

The resources and conditions necessary for evolution to occur, including overproduction and competition for limited resources.

The ability of a biodiversity site to support a significant proportion of a species' population during critical life stages such as nesting.

A conservation strategy using zoos or botanical gardens to breed and reintroduce endangered animals or plants back into their natural habitat.

A conservation approach that focuses on protecting species within their natural habitat, often involving habitat management and restoration.

Trade agreements that aim to regulate and prevent the illegal trade of endangered plant and animal species, categorized by protection levels.

These species are chosen for public appeal and fundraising efforts, aiming to attract attention and support for conservation.

A conservation strategy that combines both Ex Situ and In Situ approaches to protect and preserve species.

The idea that we have a responsibility to protect the environment for future generations.

Focuses on the beauty and inspiration found in nature, attracting tourists and promoting responsible travel.

Recognizes the vital resources provided by nature, including food, medicine, and clean water.

Protecting biodiversity for its cultural and spiritual significance to indigenous communities.

The economic benefits derived from biodiversity, such as ecotourism, medicinal plants, and genetic resources.

International organizations like UNEP set global standards and policies for biodiversity conservation.

NGOs use media campaigns, advocacy, and grassroots efforts to raise awareness and pressure governments to act on biodiversity issues.

Different conservation approaches: habitat protection, species management, invasive species control, and sustainable use.

Species richness refers to the number of different species present in an ecosystem, while species evenness refers to the relative abundance of each species.

The Simpson reciprocal index measures biodiversity by considering both species richness and evenness. A higher index indicates a more diverse ecosystem, while a lower index indicates a less diverse ecosystem.

Diversity indices are used to compare the biodiversity of different ecosystems or to monitor changes in biodiversity over time. This allows scientists to assess the impact of human activities on biodiversity.

Natural selection is a process where organisms with traits that make them better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those beneficial traits to their offspring.

Isolation occurs when populations of a species are separated geographically or reproductively. This separation allows for genetic differences to accumulate between the populations, eventually leading to the formation of new species.