Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is an indicator species?
What is an indicator species?
An organism used to assess a specific environmental condition.
Relative numbers of indicator species can be used to calculate the value of a _________ ________.
Relative numbers of indicator species can be used to calculate the value of a _________ ________.
biotic index
What does biodiversity refer to?
What does biodiversity refer to?
The amount of biological or living diversity per unit area.
What is species diversity comprised of?
What is species diversity comprised of?
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What is meant by in situ conservation?
What is meant by in situ conservation?
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What is ex situ conservation?
What is ex situ conservation?
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Give an example of a successful case study of captive breeding.
Give an example of a successful case study of captive breeding.
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What factors affect species diversity in biogeography?
What factors affect species diversity in biogeography?
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What are the factors for success in places where animals are kept?
What are the factors for success in places where animals are kept?
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Study Notes
Indicator Species
- Indicator species serve as benchmarks for assessing specific environmental conditions.
- Their presence or absence signals the health of an ecosystem; e.g., fruticose lichens indicate low air pollution levels.
Biotic Index
- Relative numbers of indicator species are utilized to calculate the biotic index, indicating ecosystem health.
Biodiversity
- Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms in a given area, encompassing species, habitat, and genetic diversity.
Species Diversity
- Comprised of species richness (number of different species), abundance (quantity of each species), and evenness (distribution of species).
- Higher values in these aspects contribute to a more biodiverse ecosystem.
Simpson's Reciprocal Index
- Used for analyzing biodiversity across two local communities, aiding in understanding species distribution.
In Situ Conservation
- In situ conservation involves active management of natural reserves or national parks to preserve species within their natural habitats.
Ex Situ Conservation
- Ex situ conservation refers to the preservation of species outside their natural habitats, often in controlled environments.
Captive Breeding Case Study
- The IUCN Red List categorizes species based on conservation status, including categories from Least Concern to Extinct.
- Species threatened with extinction are often targeted for conservation efforts that can be either in situ or ex situ.
In Situ Advantages and Disadvantages
- In situ conservation benefits include habitat preservation and aiding other species, while challenges include poaching risks.
Ex Situ Advantages and Disadvantages
- Ex situ conservation is effective for species in devastated habitats but may be costly and challenging to manage; success often hinges on paired habitat restoration.
Example of Ex Situ Success
- Przewalski horse serves as a successful case of captive breeding and reintroduction, moving from extinct in the wild to endangered through well-funded programs and local engagement.
Biogeographic Factors
- Island size and edge effects significantly impact species diversity; larger islands typically support more organisms and resources.
- Proximity to mainland increases recolonization potential after local extinctions.
Biogeographic Influences on Diversity
- Key factors affecting species diversity include size, shape, edge effects, corridors, and proximity to other habitats.
Success Factors for Animal Custodians
- Successful animal conservation programs require government funding, educational initiatives, and visitor attraction strategies.
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Description
Test your knowledge on indicator species with these flashcards. Understand how these organisms can reveal information about environmental conditions. Perfect for biology students or anyone interested in ecology.
