Chapter 10, Problem 35A

Summary Introduction

To suggest:

The consequences of biodiversity if globalization of species continues at its present pace

Introduction:

Biodiversity is a variety of life in an area that is determined by the number of species living in that area. It helps in maintaining a healthy biosphere and provides direct and indirect benefits to humans. When the entire species is permanently lost from the biosphere it is said to be extinct. There are many factors that have led to the extinction of many species and are a threat to biodiversity.

Answer to Problem 35A

Globalization of species may lead to:

1. Decline in genetic diversity in agricultural crops and livestock breeds
2. Loss of wild species
3. Invasion of exotic species
4. Pollution of soil, water and air
5. Climate change
6. Exploitation of natural resources

Explanation of Solution

Biodiversity is the variety in the flora and fauna in a particular place or habitat. It includes genetic diversity, species diversity and ecosystem diversity. It is a source of economic value, aesthetic value, provides oxygen and water, controls flood and pollution, and has scientific value. Biodiversity maintains a healthy biosphere.

Some human activities have reduced biodiversity in ecosystems and this would have a lasting impact on the biosphere. There are many factors that have caused loss in biodiversity; destruction and disruption of habitat, overexploitation of species, pollution and introduction of new species. All these factors are due to globalization of species.

As new species were introduced into an area, the nonnative species became a threat to the already existing species in that area. New species were not a threat in their native habitats but due to absence of predators and other controlling factors, their numbers increased exponentially. They soon became invasive in new habitats leading to competition for nutrients and other resources among other species. The introduced species gradually caused extinction of some species. There was a loss of biodiversity. This caused loss of wild species from the ecosystem. Preserving wild species of plants and animals is important as they serve as pools of desirable genetic traits that might help in improving crops and livestock.

There is an accelerated climate change as globalization of species continues at a high speed as more and more forests are cleared and water is polluted. Habitat fragmentation causes decline in biodiversity with few species being able to cross man made barriers.

With living beings transported from one region to another, there is overexploitation of natural resources. Human population continues to grow and the growth is not evenly distributed throughout the world. Increase in population increases the demand for natural resources.

Therefore, it is very important to preserve and conserve the biodiversity of a place. Sustainable use of natural resources should be the driving force.