Unit 4.2

• Invasive species are species introduced to a new environment, where they don't have natural predators or disease, and can outcompete or consume the native species
• Native species are species naturally found in an environment, where they have natural predators.
• Invasive species negatively impact biodiversity, as they are capable of the extinction of native plants and species, reducing biodiversity.
• Some of examples of invasive species are: Kudzu, lion fish
• Benefits of conserving biodiversity; Resources of potential medicines, Biodiversity provides a vast reservoir of genetic diversity, which contains valuable compounds and biochemicals with medicinal properties
• CITES: Conservation of international trade in endangered species, it is an international agreement that ensures a sustainable trade in endangered species. However, there is still a large international trade market for illegal trade of endangered species.
• IWC: International Whaling Commission, it protects whales by establishing protected whale sanctuaries as no-fish and safe for breeding zones.
• European Union Common Fisheries Policy (EU CFP), It rules for fishing fleets in the EU waters. However, vessels can travel far away from European countries and target less protected grounds in West African Waters.
• International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), It encourages sustainable tropical timber harvest and trade. However, there is still illegal harvesting of timber.
• IUCN RED LIST, a tool to guide international actions for conservation of endangered and threatened species.
• The EDGE, focus on threatened species with unique evolutionary history, It protects some of the most unique species on the planet. It promotes biodiversity by creating diverse habitats and ecological niches.
• Captive breeding is the process of breeding animals outside of their natural habitat. It conserves biodiversity as it will ensure large, healthy and genetically diverse populations that otherwise would not exist.
• Nature reserves are established by government programs, private organizations, or individuals. They are protected areas of importance for wild life, flora, fauna, or features of geological or other species interests.
• National parks are protected areas with strict rules and regulations enforced by legislation to protect the environment and wildlife. It offers services such as access to roads and tracks, picnic sites, etc.
• Ozone layer is on the stratosphere
• Wood, fibers; biodiversity provides a variety of raw materials, including wood, fibers, and other natural resources used in construction, manufacturing, and industry.
• oils and fuels; Biodiversity contributes to the production of oils, biofuels, and other renewable energy sources
• Diversity in genes,Biodiversity encompasses genetic diversity, which is essential for the resilience and adaptation of species to changing environmental conditions.