how humans affect biodiversity

• What has happened to the concentration of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere over the last 250 years?

  It has risen significantly.
• How does an increase in carbon dioxide concentration lead to decreased biodiversity?

  It causes global warming and extreme weather.
• What are some extreme weather patterns caused by global warming?

  Rising sea levels, changing rainfall, droughts.
• What does rising sea levels mean for habitats?

  They will change due to flooding.
• How does increased rainfall affect water levels?

  It increases water levels.
• What impact do droughts have on plant growth?

  Droughts can negatively affect plant growth.
• How do changes in habitats affect biodiversity?

  They can cause loss or damage to habitats.
• What is peat formed from?

  Dead plant material that cannot decay.
• Why can't dead plant material decay in peat bogs?

  Due to acidic and anaerobic conditions.
• What are peat bogs being destroyed for?

  To provide garden and farming compost.
• What happens when peat decays or is burned?

  It releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
• How do humans reduce the amount of land available?

  Through building, quarrying, farming, waste disposal, deforestation.
• What is deforestation primarily used for?

  Cattle farming, rice farming, biofuel crops.
• How can introducing non-indigenous species affect biodiversity?

  It can reduce biodiversity by out-competing or killing indigenous species.
• What are some ways non-indigenous species can harm indigenous species?

  They can be predators, out-compete for food, destroy habitats.