WWF: Chapter 1

Front

What is biodiversity?

Back

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It includes the diversity of species, genetic variations, and ecosystems.

Front

Why is biodiversity important for life on Earth?

Back

Biodiversity is crucial because it helps maintain ecosystem balance, provides resources for food, medicine, and materials, and supports resilience against environmental changes.

Front

What are the most evolved animals in the sea according to Mark Kurlansky?

Back

Whales, porpoises, and seals are considered the most evolved animals in the sea.

Front

What might happen if commercial fish were to disappear?

Back

If commercial fish were to disappear, it would upset the balance of life in the ocean, affecting various species and ecosystems.

Front

How old are today's small species according to Mark Kurlansky?

Back

Today's small species are approximately 100 million years old.

Front

What could lead to the extinction of seabirds?

Back

Seabirds could die out due to a lack of large fish to drive small fish to the surface, which they rely on for food.

Front

Define 'ecosystem'.

Back

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with their physical environment, including both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components.

Front

What role do large fish play in marine ecosystems?

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Large fish help regulate the populations of smaller fish and other marine organisms, maintaining balance within the ecosystem.

Front

What is overfishing?

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Overfishing is the practice of catching fish at a rate faster than they can reproduce, leading to a decline in fish populations.

Front

How does recycling contribute to biodiversity?

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Recycling reduces waste and pollution, which helps protect habitats and ecosystems, thereby supporting biodiversity.