Question 1: Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms within a particular habitat or ecosystem. Why is biodiversity important for the stability of ecosystems?

Answer: Biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience, supports ecological functions, and provides genetic resources vital for adaptation and survival.

Question 2: Climate zone: a region characterized by specific temperature and precipitation patterns. Give an example of a climate zone found in the US.

Answer: The Mediterranean climate zone in California, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Question 3: Biome: a large geographical area with a distinct climate and vegetation type. Name one biome present in the US.

Answer: Temperate deciduous forest.

Question 4: Ecosystem: a community of interacting plants, animals, and microorganisms in a particular environment. Provide an example within the US.

Answer: The Everglades freshwater marsh ecosystem in Florida.

Question 5: Succession: the process of ecological change where one community replaces another. What is primary succession?

Answer: Primary succession is the development of an ecosystem in an area where no life previously existed, such as on bare rock after a volcanic eruption.

Question 1: Which US biome is characterized by coniferous trees and cold, snowy winters, commonly found in Alaska?

Answer: Boreal Forest (Taiga)

Question 2: Name the biome that covers large parts of the Great Plains and is dominated by grasses.

Answer: Temperate Grassland

Question 3: Identify two human activities that threaten the health of US ecosystems.

Answer: Deforestation and urban development

Question 4: What climatic conditions primarily influence the distribution of the California Chaparral biome?

Answer: Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters

Question 5: Which ecological process leads to the development of a forest in an area previously covered by grassland?

Answer: Secondary succession

Question 1: The Amazon Rainforest, often called the 'lungs of the Earth,' has experienced significant deforestation due to agriculture and logging. Discuss two environmental impacts of deforestation in this biome.

Answer: Loss of biodiversity and reduced carbon sequestration, contributing to climate change.

Question 2: Compare the challenges faced by the California Chaparral biome with those of the Amazon Rainforest in terms of ecosystem management.

Answer: Both face threats from human activities; California's drought and urbanization increase fire risk, while Amazon deforestation reduces biodiversity and affects global climate regulation.

Question 1: Explain why climate change poses a threat to the biodiversity of US ecosystems, particularly in fragile biomes like the California Chaparral.

Answer: Climate change leads to increased temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and more frequent wildfires, which can destroy habitats, reduce species diversity, and disrupt ecological balance in sensitive biomes like the California Chaparral.

Question 2: Analyse the main causes of desertification in the US Southwest and their impact on local ecosystems.

Answer: Causes include overgrazing, deforestation, and prolonged droughts. Impacts include loss of vegetation cover, soil erosion, and decreased biodiversity, which threaten the viability of ecosystems.

Question 3: Explain how human activities can lead to the loss of biodiversity in the Great Plains.

Answer: Activities such as intensive farming, urbanization, and pollution reduce natural habitats and eliminate native species, leading to decreased biodiversity.

Question 1: To what extent are current conservation strategies effective in protecting US ecosystems and biomes from environmental threats? Consider both successes and limitations in your answer.

Answer: Current conservation strategies such as national parks, protected areas, and legislation like the Endangered Species Act have had successes in preserving biodiversity and habitats. However, limitations include inadequate funding, political challenges, and ongoing threats like climate change and invasive species. While some ecosystems have seen recovery, others continue to face significant decline, indicating that conservation efforts need to be more comprehensive and adaptive.