Preserving biodiversity begins with knowing what species exist, which are threatened, and how human actions affect them. This lesson introduces molecular tools for identifying species and the laws, agreements, and organizations that help change human behavior.
A complete inventory of life is essential for conservation, but many species have not yet been formally described. Advances in molecular genetics, rapid sequencing, and data storage make large-scale cataloguing increasingly practical.
All flashcards
What is a preserve?
An area set aside with varying degrees of protection for organisms within its boundaries.
What is a wildlife corridor?
A connection between habitat patches that enables organisms and genes to move between them.
What is a buffer zone around a preserve?
An area of suboptimal habitat that softens the transition to surrounding land.
What is a keystone species?
A species with an especially important role in maintaining diversity in an ecological community.
What can captive breeding contribute to conservation?
It can support reintroduction of threatened species in some cases, but has limits and may fail.
Quiz questions
Which genetic marker is commonly used to barcode many eukaryotes other than plants?Answer: Part of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase 1.
According to island biogeography, what is generally true of islands farther from a mainland?Answer: They receive fewer immigrants because organisms have more difficulty reaching them.
Why do compact preserves generally provide more core habitat than long, narrow preserves of the same area?Answer: Compact shapes have less edge relative to their area.
What is characteristic of an anadromous fish?Answer: It is born in fresh water, lives mostly in salt water, and returns to fresh water to spawn.
How can climate change reduce the effectiveness of a fixed protected-area boundary?Answer: Species may shift their ranges into habitats beyond the protected boundary.
Based on Biology 2e by Mary Ann Clark, Matthew Douglas, Jung Choi (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.