Marine Biodiversity: Introduction to International Legal Framework

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What is the significance of maintaining the abundance and biodiversity of marine ecosystems?

It is necessary for the exploration of ocean's depths
It is vital for the livelihood of people who depend on fisheries and other activities (correct)
It is crucial for the protection of marine species
It is essential for the growth of marine plants

What is a characteristic of endemic species in marine ecosystems?

They are unique to a specific geographic location (correct)
They are always found in deep-sea environments
They are found in multiple locations around the world
They are highly adaptable to different environments

Which of the following is an example of a non-living marine resource?

Marine mammals
Oil and gas deposits (correct)
Coral reefs
Fish populations

What is a unique feature of the Baltic Sea?

It is the largest body of brackish water in the world (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of the marine environment beyond living resources?

It allows for the laying of submarine telecommunication cables (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of seamounts on the deep sea-bed?

They are home to many endemic species (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is one way in which coral reefs are negatively impacted?

Extraction of coral for jewellery or souvenirs (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the annual rate of decline in reef cover in Sri Lanka?

10% (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a concern for ports when cruise vessels call in?

Environmental and biodiversity concerns (C) Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of marine fish contributes to problems in marine capture fisheries?

They are a common property and renewable natural resource (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a result of the increasing use of larger vessels in tourism?

Increased environmental concerns (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the activities that affects marine biodiversity in the marine environment?

Sewage disposal (C) Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the earth's surface is covered by seas and oceans?

70% (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the functions of the seas and oceans in maintaining ecological balances?

Producing a third of the oxygen we breathe (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of an ecosystem found in marine and coastal areas?

Mangrove forest ecosystem (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a range of marine life found in marine ecosystems?

From algae to marine mammals (A) Signup and view all the answers

What human activity can impact the marine environment?

All of the above (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to protect the marine environment?

To maintain ecological balances (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a major problem associated with commercial fishing?

Discarding of by-catch (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the intentional introduction of alien species often carried out?

To exploit new resources (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a major pathway of accidental introduction of alien species?

Through ballast water discharge (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of by-catch and invasive alien species?

Severe mid-term and long-term nutrition and financial implications (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is media attention often limited to certain species?

Due to their charismatic nature (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of the biodiversity threat posed by accidental introduction of alien species?

It is experienced throughout the globe (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the scope of the term 'marine environment' in this context?

Seas, oceans, and adjacent coastal areas (A) Signup and view all the answers

What type of fisheries is the focus of this course?

Marine capture fisheries (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of law in regulating human activities?

To minimize threats to marine biodiversity (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the scope of the international legal regime for marine biodiversity?

Global, regional, and subregional instruments (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective of many international instruments?

To contribute to the protection and preservation of marine biodiversity (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of the discussion on international instruments?