Ecology: Environmental Problems

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Download our mobile app to listen on the go

Get App

Questions and Answers

Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies 'fishing down the food chain' as a consequence of overfishing?

A shift towards catching smaller, less commercially valuable fish species after the depletion of larger predatory fish. (correct)
The use of advanced fishing technologies leading to higher catch rates of all fish species.
Implementation of stricter fishing quotas and regulations to promote sustainable fishing practices.
Increased harvesting of various fish species to meet rising consumer demand.

A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall in a region primarily dependent on agriculture leads to widespread crop failure, livestock deaths, and severe water shortages. Which environmental perturbation is most likely the primary cause of this crisis?

Soil Degradation
Desertification
Drought (correct)
Deforestation

How do forests play a significant role in mitigating regional climate change?

By releasing oxygen into the atmosphere through photosynthesis.
By absorbing and storing large amounts of carbon, thus reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. (correct)
By increasing the Earth's albedo, reflecting more sunlight back into space.
By increasing the rate of decomposition of organic matter in the soil.

A coastal region experiences increased silt runoff from land due to deforestation and conversion of forests to grazing land, leading to a decline in coral health. What process is most likely occurring?

Coral Bleaching (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which action primarily aims to return a contaminated site to a productive use, focusing on reshaping the land to create stable landscapes?

Reclamation (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does overgrazing contribute to desertification in semi-arid lands?

By compacting the soil, reducing water infiltration and increasing erosion (D) Signup and view all the answers

An ecosystem is severely degraded due to industrial pollution. Which approach is most likely to be implemented as part of ecological restoration efforts?

Addressing flora, fauna, and ecosystem functioning, beyond just soil, air, and water quality. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why is rapid and unmanaged urbanization considered a threat to environmental and social sustainability?

Governments struggle to provide adequate infrastructure and employment, leading to slum formation and socio-political conflict. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the function of soil caps in land reclamation?

To limit water infiltration, control air entry, reduce erosion, support vegetation, and contain contamination. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What combination of factors is most responsible for the loss of water volume in many lakes?

Droughts combined with population growth and water pollution. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Global Change

Disturbances affecting large areas, like watersheds or the entire planet.

Droughts

Severe, long-term lack of precipitation combined with increased water demand.