The Human Threat
L.EC.06.41 - Describe how human beings are part of the ecosystem of the Earth and that human activity can purposefully, or accidentally, alter the balance in ecosystems.
L.EC.06.42 - Predict possible consequences of overpopulation of organisms, including humans, (for example: species extinction, resource depletion, climate change, pollution).
L.EC.06.42 - Predict possible consequences of overpopulation of organisms, including humans, (for example: species extinction, resource depletion, climate change, pollution).
Human activities can also threaten biodiversity. These activities include habitat destruction, poaching, pollution, and introduction of exotic species.
Habitat Destruction: the loss of natural habitat.
Habitat Fragmentation: Breaking larger habitats into smaller, isolated pieces, or fragments.
Poaching: The illegal killing or removal of wildlife. Rhino’s are endangered mainly because of poaching for their ivory--black rhino’s are extinct as of November 17, 2011.
HOWEVER...
Many programs to protect biodiversity combine scientific and legal approaches.
Captive Breeding: the mating of animals in zoos or wildlife preserves to help protect the species.
Habitat Destruction: the loss of natural habitat.
Habitat Fragmentation: Breaking larger habitats into smaller, isolated pieces, or fragments.
Poaching: The illegal killing or removal of wildlife. Rhino’s are endangered mainly because of poaching for their ivory--black rhino’s are extinct as of November 17, 2011.
HOWEVER...
Many programs to protect biodiversity combine scientific and legal approaches.
Captive Breeding: the mating of animals in zoos or wildlife preserves to help protect the species.
Human Factors in Ecosystems
Using Amphibians as Indicators Walk
Could converting aforest to other uses effect frogs?Investigate what might happen if all of the trees in our forest plot were cut down. Listen to a "frog logger" and take water samples to collect baseline data.