Introduction to Biodiversity - AP Environmental Science

Species diversity. Focuses on variety and abundance of different species.

An endemic species is found only in a specific location. Geographic isolation often leads to unique evolutionary adaptations.

A hotspot has a high level of endemic species and is under threat. Requires both high endemism and significant habitat loss or degradation.

The Amazon rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot. Contains exceptional concentrations of endemic species under threat.

The gradual process of change in an ecosystem's species structure. Communities develop predictably from simple to complex over time.

Pollution. Contaminates habitats and directly harms wildlife populations.

A species at risk of extinction. Population has declined to dangerously low levels.

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth. Encompasses all living organisms and their genetic, species, and ecosystem variations.

Ecosystem diversity is the variety of ecosystems in a region. Includes different habitats like forests, wetlands, and grasslands.

Extinct. Complete disappearance means no living individuals remain anywhere.

Human activities, such as deforestation. Development and agriculture convert natural habitats to human use.

The gray wolf in Yellowstone National Park. Regulates prey populations and maintains ecosystem balance.

Species diversity is the variety of species in a given area. Measured by both the number of species and their relative abundance.

An ecological niche is the role a species plays in its ecosystem. Includes habitat requirements, feeding behavior, and interactions.

The Sun. Solar radiation drives photosynthesis and most food webs.

A keystone species has a disproportionately large effect on its ecosystem. Their removal dramatically alters ecosystem structure and function.

Abiotic factors like soil and water. Non-living components provide the physical foundation for life.

Biotic potential is the maximum reproductive capacity of a species. Theoretical maximum growth rate under ideal conditions.

Decomposers break down dead organic matter. Recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem for reuse.

Succession occurring on surfaces without soil. Begins on bare rock, sand, or lava without existing soil.

Gene flow between populations. Migration prevents inbreeding and maintains genetic variation.

It depletes species populations. Removes individuals faster than natural reproduction rates.

The process by which habitat loss results in the division of large habitats. Creates isolated patches that cannot support viable populations.

Soil presence; absent in primary, present in secondary. Primary lacks soil foundation while secondary has existing soil.

Ecosystem diversity. Encompasses variety of habitats and ecological communities.

Ecosystem services may be reduced. Loss of pollination, water purification, and climate regulation.

A trophic level is a position in a food chain. Indicates feeding relationships and energy transfer pathways.

Producers convert solar energy into chemical energy. Photosynthesis captures sunlight to create organic compounds.

Random changes in allele frequencies. Occurs more frequently in small, isolated populations.