Biodiversity: Natural and Human Causes of Depletion

The video discusses biodiversity, its importance, and how it varies globally. It explains how scientists measure biodiversity using the Simpson reciprocal index and the challenges of using fossil evidence to understand historical biodiversity. The video highlights threats to biodiversity, including habitat loss, invasive species, and human activities like overharvesting and pollution. It emphasizes the global impact of biodiversity loss and the need for collective action to mitigate these effects.

Why are areas with high biodiversity considered more stable?

• They have fewer species competing for resources.

• They have multiple pathways for energy flow.

• They are located closer to the equator.

• They have a longer growing season.

What does the Simpson reciprocal index measure?

• The rate of habitat loss.

• The number of extinct species in an area.

• The stability of an ecosystem.

• The biodiversity of an area.

What is a limitation of using fossil evidence to determine past biodiversity?

• Fossils are always perfectly preserved.

• Fossil evidence is abundant and easy to find.

• Some species do not fossilize due to lack of hard structures.

• All species fossilize equally well.

How does habitat fragmentation affect biodiversity?

• It creates larger habitats for species.

• It prevents invasive species from entering.

• It increases the availability of resources.

• It impacts migration and reduces resources.

What is a consequence of introducing invasive species to an ecosystem?

• They often lack natural predators and outcompete native species.

• They help native species thrive.

• They have no impact on the ecosystem.

• They decrease the population of invasive species.

How does climate change indirectly threaten biodiversity?

• By increasing the number of predators.

• By stabilizing global temperatures.

• By forcing species to adapt or face extinction.

• By reducing pollution levels.

Why is the loss of biodiversity a global concern?

• It only affects the local ecosystem.

• It can lead to higher prices for seafood.

• It has no impact on human health.

• It is caused by natural processes only.