SCIENCE FORM 2... CHAPTER 1.1: BIODIVERSITY
1.1 Diversity of Organisms (-) There is an abundance of living things on Earth (-) All living things on Earth are known as organisms WHAT IS BIODIVERSITY? (-) Diversity of organisms/ living things
WHY BIODIVERSITY EXISTS? (-) Biodiversity exists as a result of the diversity of habitat and climate (-) Different organisms have characteristics which enable them to adapt and thrive independently in their respective habitats.
Fun Facts of Biodiversity -About one million plant and animal species face the threat of extinction -At least 680 vertebrate species have gone extinct since the 16th century -The majority of native species in landbased habitats have fallen by a minimum of 20% since the 1900s
IMPORTANCE OF BIODIVERSITY (-) Sources of food - Animals and plants supply food to humans (-) Balance in nature -Interaction between different organisms and their surroundings in the environment creates a balance of nature (-) Education -The discovery of new species of living organisms can expand our knowledge and help us to understand the environment better through scientific investigations
(-) Place of Recreation and Ecotourism - Biodiversity in the environment can create beautiful landscapes and can be a place to attract tourists from all around the world (-) Biodiversity and Medicine -Many species of plants and microorganisms have long been used as traditional and modern medicine (-) Raw materials for Industries -The rich resources in Malaysia due to our biodiversity has contributed to an abundant supply of raw materials for many different industries
Effective Biodiversity Management (-) Humans use resources every day (-) If the natural resources are not used properly, the natural resources will deplete, and this can cause serious consequences. (-) Without proper planning, natural resources will continue to be exploited by human beings and this will threaten the flora and fauna we have on Earth which may lead to extinction Excessive logging has caused habitats of animals to be destroyed. This leads to extinction
What Methods can we Use to Maintain and Conserve biodiversity? (-) Banning the killing or trade of ENDEMIC and ENDANGERED animals and plants through legislation. (-) Undertake reproductive programs to harness consciousness in people (-) Setting up protected area for living organisms such as marine parks, forest reserves and wildlife sanctuaries