Transcript Biodiversity

Biodiversity:
Who cares?
What do you think biodiversity
means?
Biodiversity
What does “Bio” mean?
Bio =
Biodiversity
What does “Diversity” mean?
Diversity = Variety
Putting It Together
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Biodiversity is the variety of all life
forms.
Biodiversity is the variety of life on
Earth and the essential
interdependence of all living things
• Scientists have identified more than 2 million species. Tens
of millions -- remain unknown
• The tremendous variety of life on Earth is made possible by
complex interactions among all living things including
microscopic species like algae and mites.
Can be Used to Describe
Large or Small Ecosystems
LARGE
SMALL
Which is more diverse?
A
B
Which is more diverse?
A
B
Which is more diverse?
A
B
Which is more diverse?
A
B
Which has more cultural
diversity?
A
B
Which has more biodiversity?
A
B
Which has more biodiversity?
A
B
Importance of Biodiversity
Humans are dependent on biodiversity.
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Food- we rely on biodiversity to provide us with large and
varied food sources.
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Health- Humanity derives many of it’s medicines from
biodiversity. Plus Oxygen and Clean Water
The Human Value of Biodiversity
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Recreation- many recreation
activities rely on or benefit from
biodiversity
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Inspiration- Biodiversity as a whole
inspires artists, musicians and
writers.
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Escape- Biodiversity provides a
sanctuary from the hustle and bustle
of everyday life.
The Ecological Value of
Biodiversity
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Video Clip “Web of Life:
Exploring Diversity” 0-30
minutes
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Interdependence of Species:
An ecosystem cannot
survive without biodiversity.
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There are many roles to fill:
producers, consumers,
decomposers, herbivores and
carnivores.
Should we be concerned about
biodiversity?
What we know:
The Earth is losing species at an alarming rate
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Some scientists estimate that as many as 3 species per
hour are going extinct and 20,000 extinctions occur each
year.
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When species of plants and animals go extinct, many
other species are affected.
Threats to biodiversity
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Habitat loss
Competition from invasive species
Pollution
Global climate change
Population growth
Over harvesting
Video Clip #2 “Web of Life” (30-54 minute
mark)
Preservation of Biodiversity
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The National Strategy for the Conservation of
Australia’s Biological Diversity
Natural Heritage Trust
Wild life reserves- e.g. National Parks.
Flora and Fauna guarantee act
Endangered species Program
Quarantine
Education
Breeding Programs
What is happening to Biodiversity.
In the past, Biodiversity has suffered greatly,
primarily due to human misuse and abuse of the
environment. Humans are now starting to realize
the importance and value of biodiversity and are
taking action to preserve it.