Species Diversity and Adaptation in Changing Environments.pptx

Species Diversity and Adaptation in Changing Environments

1. Species Diversity and Adaptation in Changing Environments This presentation explores how species diversity contributes to the ability of organisms to adapt and survive in ever-changing environments. We will delve into the importance of genetic diversity and the impact of environmental challenges. CD by Charelle Honey Dumya-as

2. Understanding Species Diversity Definition Species diversity is the variety of different species within a given ecosystem. It is a critical component of overall biodiversity. Measurement Species diversity is typically measured by both the number of species present and the evenness of their population sizes. Biodiversity A high level of species diversity contributes significantly to the overall health and resilience of an ecosystem.

3. Genetic Diversity: The Foundation 1 Definition Genetic diversity refers to the variation in genes within a single species. This is the raw material for adaptation. 2 Natural Selection Genetic diversity provides the basis for natural selection, allowing species to evolve and adapt to new conditions. 3 Adaptation Potential Higher genetic diversity increases the potential for a species to adapt to environmental challenges.

4. Adapting to Environmental Shifts Behavioral Changes in behavior, such as migration patterns. Physiological Internal body adjustments like temperature regulation. Morphological Physical changes like camouflage.

5. Species Diversity and Enhanced Adaptation More variations More species mean a greater pool of genetic variations. Beneficial Traits Increased likelihood of species having beneficial traits. Survival Greater range of survival strategies when facing challenges.

6. Case Study: Coral Reef Ecosystems High Biodiversity 1 Varied Tolerance 2 Climate Resilience 3 Coral reefs, known for their biodiversity, host multiple coral species with varied heat tolerances. Some corals are more likely to survive warming oceans. This diverse reef is more resilient to climate change.

7. Challenges in Rapidly Changing Environments 1 Climate Change 2 Habitat Loss 3 Pollution Human-induced changes often outpace natural adaptation. Climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution pose major threats. Low genetic diversity limits adaptation potential. Small populations are at higher risk of extinction.

8. Preserving Biodiversity Conservation Implement conservation to protect ecosystems. Gene Flow Maintain gene flow between populations. Reduce Impacts Lower human impacts on natural habitats. Protecting biodiversity is crucial for long-term species survival. Conservation efforts, maintaining gene flow, and reducing human impacts are vital.