Ecology and Environmental Conservation

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following scenarios would most likely lead to a decrease in biodiversity within a forest ecosystem?

Establishing a wildlife corridor that connects the forest to a nearby protected area, allowing for increased genetic exchange.
Introducing a non-native plant species that rapidly spreads and outcompetes native plant species. (correct)
Implementing a selective logging strategy that removes only mature trees while leaving younger trees and the understory intact.
Increasing the population of a keystone predator that regulates the populations of several herbivore species.

How does the process of deforestation directly contribute to climate change?

By releasing stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and reducing the capacity for carbon sequestration. (correct)
By increasing the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere, leading to increased cloud formation.
By reducing the albedo of the earth's surface, causing it to absorb less heat.
By increasing the amount of solar radiation that is reflected back into space.

Which of the following best illustrates an example of ex-situ conservation?

Establishing a national park to protect a large area of natural habitat.
Implementing regulations to reduce pollution in a river system.
Creating a captive breeding program for endangered primates in a zoo. (correct)
Restoring a degraded wetland ecosystem by replanting native vegetation.

Which agricultural practice is most effective at improving soil health and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers?

Crop rotation, where different crops are planted in a sequence to improve soil fertility and reduce pest buildup. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How might ocean acidification, caused by increased atmospheric carbon dioxide, most severely impact marine ecosystems?

By hindering the ability of shellfish and coral to build their shells and skeletons. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of sustainable urban planning?

To create communities that minimize environmental impact and promote social equity and economic vitality. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How can the implementation of a circular economy contribute to environmental sustainability?

By minimizing waste and maximizing the reuse and recycling of materials. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a key strategy for climate change adaptation?

Developing drought-resistant crops to ensure food security in water-scarce regions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the most significant role of biodiversity hotspots in global conservation efforts?

They contain a disproportionately high number of endemic species, making their conservation crucial to preventing global extinctions. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the conversion of grasslands to agricultural land primarily impact the carbon cycle?

It decreases carbon sequestration as the soil is disturbed and organic matter decomposes. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Ecosystem

A community of interacting organisms (biotic) and their physical environment (abiotic).

Biodiversity

The variety of life on Earth, including genes, species, and ecosystems.

Climate Change

Long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns, largely due to human activities increasing greenhouse gases.

Conservation Efforts

Efforts to protect and restore biodiversity and ecosystems, both in their natural habitats (in-situ) and outside of them (ex-situ).