Conservation and Preservation

• What is the definition of preservation in the context of conservation?

  Preservation is protection of an area by restricting or banning human use.
• How does conservation differ from preservation?

  Conservation is maintaining biodiversity through active management.
• What are the categories on the IUCN Red List?

  • Endangered
  • Critically endangered
  • Extinct
  • Data Deficient
• Why does the IUCN Red List have a 'Data Deficient' category?

  It indicates a lack of sufficient information to assess the species' risk of extinction.
• What are the two types of conservation?

  • In situ: within the natural habitat
  • Ex situ: outside of the natural habitat
• How can in situ conservation be implemented?

  By protecting an organism's natural habitat.
• What are some challenges of legislation in conservation efforts?

  Legislation can be difficult to enforce.
• What is a potential conflict associated with parks and reserves?

  There may be possible conflict with local human activities.
• What is the purpose of repopulation in conservation?

  To restore species numbers in their natural habitat.
• What is ex situ conservation?

  Conservation that occurs outside of the organism's natural habitat.
• What is the role of zoos in ex situ conservation?

  Zoos participate in captive breeding and preserving genetic material.
• How do botanical gardens contribute to conservation?

  They preserve plant species and genetic material.
• What is the purpose of seed banks in conservation?

  To store seeds in cold, dry conditions to retain viability.
• What is a challenge associated with seed banks?

  Samples may deteriorate over time.
• What is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)?

  CITES regulates international trade in endangered species.
• What does the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) promote?

  It promotes appropriate, sustainable use of organisms and ecosystems.
• What is the Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS)?

  It is a UK scheme promoting sustainable land management techniques.
• What are some techniques promoted by the Countryside Stewardship Scheme?

  Hedgerow conservation, woodland management, and wildflower margins.
• Who gave the TED talk on seed banks?

  Cary Fowler.
• What does 'viable' mean in the context of seed banks?

  Viable means able to germinate.
• How is seed viability tested in seed banks?

  By germinating seeds from the bank periodically.
• What are the key functions of CITES and CBD?

  CITES:

  • Regulates international trade in endangered species
  • Bans trade in wild plants, allows trade in artificially propagated plants

  
  

  CBD:

  • Promotes sustainable use of organisms and ecosystems
  • Encourages sharing of genetic resources
  • Fosters international cooperation