Types of Extinction and Biodiversity

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What is the key difference between background extinction and mass extinction?

Background extinction is a natural process, while mass extinction is always caused by human interference.

Background extinction occurs at a slower rate, while mass extinction occurs at a faster rate. (correct)

Mass extinction is caused by natural disasters, while background extinction is caused by human activities.

Mass extinction leads to a decrease in biodiversity, while background extinction leads to an increase in biodiversity.

What was the primary cause of the mass extinction that led to the demise of the dinosaurs?

The spread of disease-causing agents like bacteria and fungi.

Habitat destruction and degradation by early human civilizations.

The impact of a large meteor in the Yucatan peninsula that decreased oxygen levels. (correct)

A series of volcanic eruptions that increased greenhouse gases and global temperatures.

Which of the following is not considered a direct cause of species extinction?

Increased biodiversity. (correct)

Introduction of exotic species.

Pollution.

Habitat destruction and degradation.

How has the rate of species extinction changed compared to the historical, natural rate?

The rate of extinction is a thousand times higher than the historical rate. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the indirect causes of species extinction mentioned in the text?

Habitat destruction, introduction of exotic species, and pollution. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following natural causes of mass extinction is not mentioned in the text?

Increased greenhouse gas emissions. Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the process by which pollutants enter a food chain through the organism in the first trophic level?

Bioaccumulation Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the impact of habitat fragmentation on biodiversity?

It introduces new species that disrupt the existing ecosystem. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main concern associated with nonnative species introduced to new habitats?

They can threaten biodiversity by lacking natural predators or competitors. Signup and view all the answers

Which activity is a direct cause of overexploitation contributing to species extinction?

Hunting, gathering, and collection Signup and view all the answers

What effect does eutrophication have on aquatic ecosystems?

Promotes algal growth due to nutrient runoff Signup and view all the answers

Which process leads to an increase in the concentration of pollutants from one organism to another in a food chain?

Biomagnification Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of species extinction according to the text?

Human hunting Signup and view all the answers

Which event is NOT listed as a natural cause of species extinction in the text?

Commercial exploitation of pigeon meat Signup and view all the answers

What type of extinction event involves a sudden, widespread decrease in biodiversity?

Mass extinction Signup and view all the answers

Which species mentioned in the text was impacted by overhunting for food and skin?

Passenger Pigeon Signup and view all the answers

What is the key difference between background extinction and mass extinction events?

Background extinction is gradual and affects few species, while mass extinction is sudden and affects many species. Signup and view all the answers

Which human activity mentioned in the text contributed to the extinction of the Cebu Warty Pig?

Overhunting for food and skin Signup and view all the answers

Types of Extinction and Biodiversity

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