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
• Why is biodiversity important for ecosystems?

  Species depend on each other for food
• 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?

  It makes ecosystems less dependent on one species
• What negative effect do humans have on biodiversity?

  Humans cause deforestation, reducing biodiversity
• What type of forests contain rich biodiversity?

  Tropical forests
• Why are large areas of tropical forests being destroyed?

  To provide land for agriculture and grazing
• What is one common use of land cleared from forests?

  Rice fields
• What crops are often grown on deforested land?

  Crops for biofuels
• What are the key topics to study regarding biodiversity and deforestation?

  • Definition of biodiversity
  • Importance of biodiversity for ecosystems
  • Effects of deforestation on biodiversity
  • Uses of land cleared from forests