Hw1Balick_worksht (1)

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Anthropology

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Dec 6, 2023

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Name/s Jayden Haddock HW, 9 pts I. Answer the following questions based on Michael Balick’s talk. You can work individually or in groups (2-3 members). If working in a group, submit only ONE assignment with everyone’s name on it. Upload on Classes LECTURE section by 11:59pm 9/14 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_B0MD-P1jc 1. Why is the study of ethnobotany important? Ethnobotany plays a vital role in understanding the complex relationship between humans and plants, preserving traditional knowledge passed down through generations and potentially leading to scientific advancements that benefit both individuals and the ecosystem through sustainable practices. 2. What is devolution? Devolution is the concept that organisms could regress to seemingly more ancestral forms over time. 3. What are the 3 strategies for collecting plants?  One strategy for collecting plants involve collecting the entire plant specimen pressing and drying to preserve the plant on herbarium sheet (Herbarium Collection)  Second strategy for collecting plants involves gathering seeds from various plants (Seed Collection)  Third strategy for collecting plants involves collecting and cultivating plants living plants (Living Plant Collection) 4. What is salvage ethnobotany? Salvage ethnobotany centers on the documentation and conservation of longstanding ecological wisdom concerning plant utilization and cultural traditions, specifically on indigenous and local societies with urgency. Urgency is needed before many of cultural plant knowledge is lost due to various factors such as cultural assimilation, environmental changes, etc. 5. Name any 2 plants mentioned in Balick’s talk that have ethnobotanical use and indicate what they are used for.  Piper methysticum (kava): plant that has anxiety reducing properties. In the native culture that uses Kava often use it as tea when settling arguments.  Cinnamomum carolinense (cinnamon): plant that is used to relief lower back pain is traditional made into tea. 6. What does ethnosphere mean?

Ethnosphere is the amalgamation of all cultures, languages, and traditions that exist among the world’s diverse human societies. However, when traditions are no longer passed down some ancient knowledge is lost in the ethnosphere. II. Critically think before you answer this question: Do you believe that humans and all other animal species will go extinct without plants? Why or why not? Defend your answer by describing at least THREE specific reasons/examples (3 pts). The existence of humans and all other animal species is intrinsically linked to plants due to their vital role in ecosystems. Firstly, plants serve as a primary food source for both herbivores and humans, forming intricate food chains and ecosystems. Many animals directly depend on plants for sustenance, and carnivores rely on herbivores, creating complex interdependencies. Secondly, plants act as primary producers, conducting photosynthesis, a process that generates oxygen as a byproduct. Oxygen is a lifeline for the respiration of most animals, including humans. The absence of plants would lead to a substantial drop in atmospheric oxygen levels, making survival challenging for animals. Lastly, humans have harnessed plants for thousands of years, utilizing them for medicinal, cultural, and industrial purposes. Plant compounds are the basis of numerous pharmaceuticals, and plants are indispensable in the production of textiles, wood, and various essential materials.

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Hw1Balick_worksht (1)

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