Question 1: Define 'biodiversity' and explain its importance in conservation efforts.

Answer: Biodiversity refers to the variety of plant, animal, and microorganism species in an ecosystem. It is important in conservation because high biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience and stability, helping species survive environmental changes.

Question 2: What is 'sustainable development' in the context of environmental conservation?

Answer: Sustainable development involves managing natural resources to meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs, balancing economic growth with environmental protection.

Question 3: Explain the role of national parks like Yellowstone in conservation.

Answer: National parks like Yellowstone protect ecosystems, wildlife, and landscapes from development and exploitation, serving as areas for preservation, recreation, and environmental research.

Question 4: Define 'endangered species' and give an example from the US.

Answer: An endangered species is a species at risk of extinction. An example from the US is the California condor.

Question 5: What is 'habitat fragmentation' and how does it affect wildlife?

Answer: Habitat fragmentation occurs when large habitats are divided into smaller, isolated patches, which can threaten wildlife by reducing available space and disrupting migration and breeding.

Question 1: Which government agency is primarily responsible for managing national parks in the United States?

Answer: National Park Service

Question 2: Name two endangered species native to the US.

Answer: California condor and the Florida panther.

Question 3: What are the main threats to biodiversity in US ecosystems?

Answer: Main threats include habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species, climate change, and over-exploitation of resources.

Question 4: Describe the purpose of the Endangered Species Act of 1973.

Answer: The Endangered Species Act aims to protect and recover imperiled species and their habitats, preventing extinction through legal protections and conservation measures.

Question 5: Name the largest national forest in the US and its location.

Answer: The Tongass National Forest in Alaska.

Question 1: Based on the case of Yellowstone National Park, identify two conservation challenges faced by the park.

Answer: Challenges include managing tourist impact on ecosystems and controlling invasive species such as non-native plants and animals.

Question 2: Describe one strategy Yellowstone uses to protect its wildlife populations.

Answer: Yellowstone employs captive breeding and reintroduction programs for species like the gray wolf to restore natural predator-prey dynamics.

Question 3: Explain how tourism impacts Yellowstone’s conservation goals.

Answer: Tourism increases economic value but can lead to habitat disturbance, pollution, and strain on park infrastructure, necessitating management strategies to balance access and preservation.

Question 4: Assess the effectiveness of Yellowstone’s conservation policies based on recent ecological data.

Answer: Recent data shows that conservation policies such as predator reintroduction have led to increased biodiversity and ecological stability, though challenges like invasive species persist. Overall, Yellowstone’s policies are largely effective but require ongoing management.

Question 1: Analyse the causes of habitat loss in the Appalachian Mountains.

Answer: Habitat loss in the Appalachian Mountains results from logging, urban expansion, mining activities, and agricultural development. These activities fragment habitats, reduce biodiversity, and alter natural landscapes, threatening native species and ecosystem health.

Question 2: Explain why invasive species pose a threat to native ecosystems in the US.

Answer: Invasive species outcompete native species for resources, disrupt food webs, and can introduce diseases, leading to declines in native biodiversity and altering ecosystem functions.

Question 3: Describe the process of ecological succession in a US wetland area.

Answer: Ecological succession in wetlands involves the gradual replacement of pioneer species with more complex plant and animal communities, restoring ecological balance over time after disturbance.

Question 1: To what extent have US conservation strategies been successful in protecting endangered species such as the California condor?

Answer: US conservation strategies, including captive breeding, habitat protection, and legal frameworks like the Endangered Species Act, have significantly increased population numbers of species like the California condor. However, challenges such as genetic diversity, habitat fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflict remain. Overall, these strategies have been largely successful but require continuous adaptation to ensure long-term species survival.

Question 2: Evaluate the impact of national parks, like Yellowstone, on local communities and ecosystems.

Answer: National parks like Yellowstone protect ecosystems and promote biodiversity, providing ecological benefits and recreational opportunities. However, they can also restrict land use for local communities and lead to conflicts over resource management. Balancing conservation with local economic needs remains a challenge, but overall, parks contribute positively to environmental preservation and sustainable tourism.