Biodiversity and ecosystem services
≈ 48 minBiodiversity and ecosystem services
Biodiversity includes genetic variation, species variety and ecosystem variety. It can make ecosystems more resilient because different organisms perform overlapping or complementary roles. Ecosystem services are benefits people receive from functioning ecosystems, such as pollination, water purification, soil formation, climate regulation, food and cultural value. A conservation argument should connect a biological process to a benefit and acknowledge who bears costs.
Work it through
Wetlands slow water flow, trap sediments and support organisms that process nutrients. Protecting a wetland can improve water quality and reduce flood risk, but nearby development may promise jobs. A responsible decision compares evidence and explores ways to reduce harm.
Mastery target
Explain one ecosystem service mechanistically, then evaluate a conservation choice with more than one stakeholder in mind.
Which is an ecosystem service supplied by a wetland?
Name the key biological term from Biodiversity and ecosystem services: enter the term that best fits the explanation and visual model.
Which conservation argument is strongest?
Which statement corrects a common misunderstanding in Biodiversity and ecosystem services?