Biodiversity

• What is meant by biodiversity?

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

  It describes the variety of species in that ecosystem
• What is a key definition of biodiversity?

  The variety of all different species on Earth
• Why is biodiversity important for ecosystems?

  Species depend on each other for food and stability
• How does a high level of biodiversity affect ecosystem stability?

  It makes ecosystems less dependent on one species
• What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

  They break down remains of dead organisms
• What negative effect do humans have on biodiversity?

  Deforestation
• What is deforestation?

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

  They contain a very rich biodiversity
• What is a common reason for land clearing in tropical forests?

  To provide land for rice fields or grazing cattle
• How is land used to grow crops related to deforestation?

  Crops are often used to make biofuels
• What are the interdependencies among species in an ecosystem?

  • Species depend on each other for food
  • Decomposers maintain the environment
  • High biodiversity stabilizes ecosystems
• What are the consequences of reduced biodiversity due to deforestation?

  • Increased dependence on fewer species
  • Greater risk of ecosystem instability
  • Loss of habitat for many organisms