What-is-Biodiversityyyyyyyyyyyyyuyyy (1).pptx

Science

1. What is Biodiversity? Biodiversity, or biological diversity, refers to the variety of life on Earth. It encompasses all living organisms, from microscopic bacteria to towering trees, from colorful coral reefs to bustling cities. This diversity is not simply a collection of different species; it represents a complex web of interconnected relationships between all forms of life and their surrounding environments. by April Joy Mangurali

2. The Importance of Biodiversity 1 Ecosystem Services Biodiversity is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems. Different species play essential roles in processes like pollination, pest control, water filtration, and soil fertility. These services are vital for human well-being and support our food production, clean water, and climate regulation. 2 Medicinal Resources Many medicines are derived from plants, animals, and microbes. Biodiversity provides a vast reservoir of natural resources that hold potential for new medical discoveries and treatments. Protecting biodiversity safeguards this valuable resource for future generations. 3 Economic Value Biodiversity contributes significantly to economies worldwide. Tourism, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries are all dependent on healthy ecosystems and diverse species. Protecting biodiversity ensures the sustainability of these industries and their associated economic benefits. 4 Aesthetic and Cultural Value Biodiversity enriches our lives by providing beauty, inspiration, and cultural connections. Nature inspires art, music, literature, and spiritual practices. The diversity of life adds wonder and meaning to our existence.

3. Three Types of Biodiversity Genetic Diversity Genetic diversity refers to the variation in genes within a species. This variation is essential for adaptation and survival. A higher genetic diversity within a population means it's more likely to have individuals with traits that allow them to cope with environmental changes. This is why genetic diversity is crucial for long-term survival of species. Species Diversity Species diversity refers to the variety of species within a particular region or ecosystem. This diversity is important for maintaining ecosystem balance and stability. Different species have unique roles in the ecosystem, and their interactions create a complex web of relationships that support the overall health of the environment. Ecosystem Diversity Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of ecosystems within a region or across the globe. This diversity is crucial for maintaining the Earth's overall biodiversity. Different ecosystems have unique characteristics and provide habitats for a wide range of species. Protecting ecosystem diversity ensures the continued survival of all living organisms.

4. Biodiversity Index Biodiversity Index Formula Sample Shannon Index (H') H' = - Σ (pi * ln(pi)) H' = - [(0.3 * ln(0.3)) + (0.2 * ln(0.2)) + (0.1 * ln(0.1)) + (0.4 * ln(0.4))] = 1.36 Simpson Index (D) D = 1 - Σ (pi^2) D = 1 - [(0.3^2) + (0.2^2) + (0.1^2) + (0.4^2)] = 0.66 These indices are used to measure biodiversity in different areas or ecosystems. The higher the index value, the greater the biodiversity. These indices are helpful tools for monitoring biodiversity over time and identifying areas where conservation efforts are needed.

5. Limiting Factors, Carrying Capacity, Endangered, Threatened, Extinction Limiting Factors Limiting factors are environmental resources that restrict population growth. These factors can include food, water, shelter, space, and the presence of predators or diseases. When a limiting factor is in short supply, it can prevent a population from increasing further, even if other resources are abundant. Carrying Capacity Carrying capacity is the maximum population size that an environment can sustainably support. This is determined by the availability of resources and the ability of the environment to regenerate. When a population exceeds its carrying capacity, it may experience a decline due to resource depletion or increased competition. Endangered An endangered species is a species that is at risk of extinction. These species have a very small population size and are facing significant threats to their survival. Endangered species are often protected by laws and conservation efforts to prevent their extinction. Threatened A threatened species is a species that is likely to become endangered in the near future. These species may have a declining population size or face growing threats to their survival. Conservation efforts are often initiated to help threatened species recover and avoid becoming endangered. Extinction Extinction is the complete disappearance of a species from Earth. This can happen naturally over long periods due to evolutionary processes or environmental changes. However, human activities are now the primary driver of extinction, leading to an unprecedented rate of species loss.

6. Natural Causes of Species Extinction 1 Climate Change Climate change, such as shifts in temperature, rainfall patterns, or sea levels, can alter habitats and create challenges for species to adapt. Some species may struggle to survive in the face of these rapid changes, leading to population decline and even extinction. 2 Land Development Natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, wildfires, and floods can significantly impact ecosystems, causing habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. These events can lead to population decline and even extinction, especially for species with limited ranges or specialized adaptations. 3 Acid Precipitation Acid rain, caused by pollutants released into the atmosphere, can acidify lakes and streams, harming aquatic organisms. It can also damage forests and other ecosystems by altering soil chemistry and leaching essential nutrients. These effects can contribute to species decline and extinction. 4 Diseases/Epidemic Infectious diseases can spread rapidly through populations, especially if individuals are weakened by environmental stress or lack of genetic diversity. Outbreaks can lead to significant population declines and even extinction if the disease is highly virulent and spreads quickly. 5 Meteoric Impact/Cosmic Radiation While rare, meteoric impacts or intense cosmic radiation events can cause widespread destruction and environmental changes, leading to mass extinctions. These events are significant drivers of biodiversity loss on a global scale. 6 The Spread of Invasive Species Invasive species, introduced by humans to new environments, can outcompete native species for resources, prey on them, or spread diseases, disrupting ecosystems and causing declines in native populations.

7. Man-Made Causes of Species Extinction Deforestation Deforestation is the clearing of forests for various purposes, such as agriculture, logging, and urban development. This practice destroys habitats and disrupts ecosystems, leading to the loss of countless species that rely on forests for survival. Pollution Pollution, including air, water, and soil contamination, can harm organisms and disrupt ecosystems. Pollutants can poison animals and plants, alter food webs, and disrupt natural processes, contributing to species decline and extinction. Destruction of Coastal Resources Coastal ecosystems, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, are vital habitats for a wide range of marine life. Destruction of these habitats through activities such as coastal development, pollution, and overfishing can have devastating consequences for biodiversity.

8. Geologic Timescale 1 Paleozoic Era The Paleozoic Era (541-252 million years ago) was a time of significant diversification of life on Earth. This era saw the evolution of diverse marine organisms, including trilobites, brachiopods, and early fish. However, the era ended with the Permian-Triassic extinction event, the most severe extinction event in Earth's history, which wiped out over 90% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial vertebrate species. 2 Mesozoic Era The Mesozoic Era (252-66 million years ago) is known as the "Age of Reptiles." During this time, dinosaurs dominated terrestrial ecosystems, while marine reptiles thrived in the oceans. This era ended with the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event, which wiped out the dinosaurs and many other species, likely caused by an asteroid impact. 3 Cenozoic Era The Cenozoic Era (66 million years ago to present) is the current era and has seen the rise of mammals and the development of modern ecosystems. However, this era is also characterized by a significant increase in human activity, which has led to unprecedented levels of biodiversity loss, including the ongoing sixth mass extinction.

9. Conservation Efforts and Strategies Habitat Protection and Restoration Protecting and restoring natural habitats is crucial for conserving biodiversity. This includes establishing protected areas, restoring degraded ecosystems, and managing human activities to minimize impacts on wildlife. Species Management and Reintroduction Conservation efforts often focus on managing threatened and endangered species. This includes monitoring populations, controlling invasive species, and in some cases, reintroducing species to areas where they have been lost. Education and Public Awareness Raising awareness about biodiversity and the threats it faces is essential for fostering support for conservation efforts. Education programs can help people understand the importance of biodiversity, promote responsible actions, and advocate for policy changes. Sustainable Practices Sustainable practices in agriculture, forestry, and other industries can help minimize the negative impacts on biodiversity. This includes using eco-friendly methods, reducing pollution, and promoting responsible resource management.