biodiversity

• What is meant by biodiversity?

  The variety of all the different species of organisms on Earth
• How can biodiversity refer to an individual ecosystem?

  It can describe the variety of species within that specific ecosystem
• Why is biodiversity important for ecosystems?

  Species depend on each other for food and environmental maintenance
• What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

  They break down the remains of dead organisms
• How does a high level of biodiversity affect ecosystem stability?

  A high level of biodiversity makes an ecosystem more stable
• Why is an ecosystem with many different species less dependent on one species?

  If one species' population falls, it is less likely to affect the whole ecosystem
• What negative effect do humans have on biodiversity?

  Humans are causing deforestation, which reduces biodiversity
• What is deforestation?

  The destruction of large areas of forests
• Why are tropical forests significant for biodiversity?

  Tropical forests contain a very rich biodiversity
• What are some common uses of land that has been deforested?

  Land is often used for rice fields or grazing cattle
• What should you remember about biodiversity and deforestation for your exam?

  • Biodiversity refers to the variety of species on Earth.
  • Deforestation negatively impacts biodiversity.
  • Tropical forests are rich in biodiversity.
  • Land is often cleared for agriculture and biofuels.
• What crops are often grown on deforested land for biofuels?

  Crops that are used to make biofuels