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47.3 Threats to Biodiversity

6 min read•june 14, 2024

faces numerous threats, from to . These challenges stem from human activities like , , and . Understanding these threats is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies.

adds another layer of complexity, causing shifts in and altering ecosystems. Conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and protecting , are vital for preserving Earth's rich tapestry of life in the face of these mounting pressures.

Threats to Biodiversity

Threats to biodiversity

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  • Habitat loss occurs when natural environments are destroyed or altered, making them unsuitable for native species
    • Deforestation involves clearing forests for timber, agriculture, or development, destroying habitats for countless species (Amazon rainforest)
    • Urbanization expands cities and infrastructure into natural areas, replacing diverse ecosystems with human-dominated landscapes (urban sprawl)
    • Agriculture expansion converts wild lands into monoculture crops or pastures, reducing biodiversity and ecosystem complexity (palm oil plantations)
    • divides once-continuous habitats into smaller, isolated patches, impacting species survival and ecological processes
      • Reduction in habitat size limits resources and population sizes, increasing vulnerability to stochastic events (forest fragments)
      • Isolation of populations hinders gene flow and reduces , increasing risk of inbreeding depression (island biogeography)
      • Disruption of migration patterns prevents species from accessing critical resources or breeding grounds (migratory birds)
  • Invasive species are non-native organisms that establish and spread in new environments, often outcompeting native species
    • Introduction of non-native species can be intentional or unintentional, with far-reaching ecological consequences
      • Intentional introductions include ornamental plants, pets, or species introduced for economic reasons (kudzu vine)
      • Unintentional introductions occur when species hitchhike on ships, planes, or other human transportation (zebra mussels)
    • Lack of natural predators in the new environment allows invasive species to proliferate unchecked, disrupting ecological balance (brown tree snake on Guam)
    • Competition with native species for resources such as food, shelter, and breeding sites can lead to declines in native populations (Asian carp in North American rivers)
    • Alteration of ecosystem dynamics by invasive species can change , fire regimes, and other ecological processes (cheatgrass in western United States)
  • Overexploitation refers to unsustainable harvest of species from the wild, leading to population declines and potential
    • Unsustainable hunting and fishing practices driven by various factors contribute to overexploitation of species
      • Commercial exploitation fueled by market demand can rapidly deplete populations of valuable species (bluefin tuna)
      • Poaching targets rare or protected species for illegal wildlife trade, decimating populations (African elephants for ivory)
      • Illegal wildlife trade encompasses a wide range of species and products, from exotic pets to traditional medicines (pangolins)
    • Depletion of natural resources beyond their capacity to regenerate threatens the long-term viability of species and ecosystems
      • Overfishing has led to the collapse of numerous fish stocks worldwide, with cascading effects on marine (Atlantic cod)
      • Overharvesting of plants and animals for food, medicine, or other uses can drive species to the brink of extinction (ginseng)
  • encompasses various human activities that negatively impact ecosystems and biodiversity
    • Pollution from industrial, agricultural, and urban sources can degrade habitats and harm species directly or indirectly
    • Habitat modification through land-use changes can alter ecosystem structure and function, affecting species composition and interactions

Human impacts on species extinction

  • Increased extinction rates are a direct consequence of human activities, far exceeding natural background rates of species loss
    • Current extinction rates are estimated to be 100 to 1,000 times higher than the normal background rate, indicating a rapid loss of biodiversity (Holocene extinction)
    • Human activities, such as habitat destruction, overharvesting, and , are the primary drivers of the ongoing sixth mass extinction (Anthropocene)
  • Disruption of occurs when biodiversity loss impairs the vital functions that ecosystems provide to support life on Earth
    • by insects and other animals is essential for the reproduction of many plant species, including crops (bees)
    • Nutrient cycling, such as decomposition and nitrogen fixation, maintains soil fertility and supports primary production (mycorrhizal fungi)
    • by wetlands and other aquatic ecosystems helps maintain water quality and regulate hydrological cycles (mangroves)
    • by forests and other ecosystems helps mitigate climate change by storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (peatlands)
  • Cascading effects on food webs occur when the loss of certain species triggers a chain reaction that alters the structure and function of ecosystems
    • Loss of , which have a disproportionately large influence on their ecosystem, can lead to dramatic changes in community composition (sea otters)
    • happen when changes in one trophic level affect other levels, often through predator-prey interactions (wolves in Yellowstone)
    • Alteration of community structure and dynamics can result from the loss of foundation species or changes in species interactions (coral reefs)
  • Reduction in within species can occur due to population declines, , or selective pressures
    • Loss of unique adaptations and evolutionary potential makes species less resilient to environmental changes and novel challenges (cheetahs)
    • Increased vulnerability to environmental changes and diseases arises when genetic variation is reduced, limiting a species' ability to adapt (Tasmanian devils)
  • , areas with exceptional concentrations of endemic species and high levels of habitat loss, are particularly vulnerable to human impacts
    • These regions require targeted conservation efforts to protect their unique and threatened biodiversity

Climate change effects on biodiversity

  • Shifts in species distributions are occurring as organisms respond to changing temperature and precipitation patterns
    • Poleward and upward migration of species is observed as they track suitable climate conditions (butterflies moving northward)
    • Changes in range size and location can lead to the expansion, contraction, or fragmentation of species' habitats (alpine plants)
    • Asynchrony between interacting species, such as plants and pollinators, can disrupt ecological relationships and reduce fitness (great tit and winter moth)
  • in the timing of life cycle events are increasingly common as species respond to altered seasonal cues
    • Earlier spring events, such as flowering and breeding, can occur when temperature thresholds are reached sooner (cherry blossoms)
    • Mismatches between species' life cycles and resource availability can arise when phenological shifts are unequal among interacting species (pied flycatcher and caterpillar prey)
  • Increased risk of extinction for vulnerable species is a major concern as climate change alters habitat suitability and biotic interactions
    • Species with limited dispersal abilities may be unable to keep pace with shifting climate zones, increasing their extinction risk (American pika)
    • Specialists with narrow ecological niches are particularly sensitive to climate-induced changes in their habitat or food sources (polar bears)
    • Species in isolated or fragmented habitats have limited options for migration or adaptation, making them more vulnerable to extinction (cloud forest species)
  • Alteration of ecosystem structure and function can occur as species assemblages and abiotic conditions change in response to climate change
    • Changes in species composition can alter the functional roles and interactions within ecosystems, affecting their resilience and stability (kelp forests)
    • Disruption of biotic interactions, such as predation, competition, and mutualism, can have cascading effects on ecosystem dynamics (plant-pollinator networks)
    • Shifts in biome boundaries, such as the expansion of grasslands into former tundra regions, can transform the character and function of entire landscapes (Arctic greening)
  • , caused by increased absorption of atmospheric carbon dioxide, poses a significant threat to marine biodiversity
    • Reduced rates in shell-forming organisms, such as mollusks and corals, can impair their growth and survival (pteropods)
    • and reef degradation occur when rising water temperatures and acidity stress coral polyps, leading to the expulsion of their symbiotic algae (Great Barrier Reef)
    • Potential cascading effects on marine food webs can arise as the foundation of many marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs, are degraded by ocean acidification (parrotfish)

Conservation and restoration efforts

  • focuses on understanding and protecting biodiversity through scientific research and practical management strategies
    • This interdisciplinary field combines ecology, genetics, and social sciences to address complex conservation challenges
  • aims to repair degraded ecosystems and reestablish ecological processes, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem services
    • Restoration projects can range from reforestation efforts to the reintroduction of key species in their native habitats
  • Preserving recognizes the interconnectedness of biological and cultural diversity, emphasizing the importance of traditional ecological knowledge in conservation efforts
  • Enhancing through conservation and restoration can help ecosystems better withstand and recover from disturbances, including climate change impacts

Key Terms to Review (42)

Anthropogenic disturbance: Anthropogenic disturbance refers to the changes in ecosystems and habitats caused by human activities, which can lead to negative impacts on biodiversity. These disturbances can range from deforestation and urbanization to pollution and climate change, altering the natural environment and affecting the species that depend on it. Understanding anthropogenic disturbances is crucial because they pose significant threats to the stability and health of ecosystems worldwide.
Background extinction: Background extinction is the standard rate of extinction in Earth's geological and biological history before humans became a primary contributor to extinctions. It refers to the normal rate of loss of species due to natural evolutionary and ecological processes.
Biocultural diversity: Biocultural diversity refers to the interconnectedness of biological diversity and cultural diversity, highlighting how human cultures and their practices shape and are shaped by the ecosystems in which they exist. This concept emphasizes that the variety of life on Earth is not only about different species but also about the cultural knowledge, practices, and languages that have developed in relation to these species, particularly in indigenous communities. It underscores the importance of preserving both natural environments and the cultural heritage that sustains them.
Biodiversity: Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms on Earth, encompassing the diversity of species, genetic variations, and ecosystems. This term is crucial as it helps us understand the intricate web of life, its functioning, and its significance in maintaining ecological balance and resilience.
Biodiversity hotspots: Biodiversity hotspots are regions with exceptionally high levels of species richness and endemism that are under significant threat from human activities. These areas are critical for conservation efforts due to their unique and diverse ecosystems.
Biodiversity hotspots: Biodiversity hotspots are regions that are rich in endemic species and have experienced significant habitat loss, making them crucial for conservation efforts. These areas are vital for preserving global biodiversity as they contain a high number of unique plants and animals that are found nowhere else on Earth, while also facing severe threats from human activities such as deforestation and urbanization.
Bush meat: Bush meat refers to the meat of wild animals hunted in tropical forests, particularly in Africa. It is a significant source of protein for many rural communities but poses threats to biodiversity and public health.
Calcification: Calcification is the process where calcium salts accumulate in body tissues, leading to hardening or stiffening of those tissues. This biological process is crucial in various contexts, especially related to the health of marine ecosystems, where it affects organisms such as corals and shellfish, making them vulnerable to environmental changes.
Carbon sequestration: Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) to mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This process can occur naturally through biological systems, like forests and soil, or artificially through technological solutions. The effective management of carbon sequestration is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, promoting plant growth, and contributing to various nutrient cycles in ecosystems.
Chytridiomycosis: Chytridiomycosis is an infectious disease caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). It affects amphibians, leading to significant population declines and threats to biodiversity.
Climate change: Climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other aspects of the Earth's climate system. These changes are driven by both natural processes and human activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases.
Climate change: Climate change refers to significant alterations in global temperatures and weather patterns over time, largely driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. These changes impact ecosystems, biodiversity, and the stability of natural habitats, leading to increased threats to wildlife and plant species.
Conservation Biology: Conservation biology is the scientific study focused on understanding and preserving biodiversity, encompassing the protection of species, their habitats, and ecosystems from degradation. It addresses the urgent need to mitigate the impacts of human activities and environmental changes that threaten the delicate balance of natural systems. This field combines knowledge from various disciplines to develop strategies aimed at maintaining and restoring biological diversity in the face of ongoing global challenges.
Coral bleaching: Coral bleaching is a phenomenon where corals lose their vibrant colors and turn white, primarily due to stress factors like increased water temperature, pollution, or changes in salinity. This process occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) that live in their tissues and provide them with essential nutrients and color. As a significant threat to biodiversity, coral bleaching can lead to the degradation of coral reefs, which serve as critical habitats for numerous marine species.
Deforestation: Deforestation is the large-scale removal of trees from forested areas, resulting in the conversion of forested land to non-forest uses such as agriculture, urban development, or mining. This process significantly impacts ecosystems and biodiversity, contributing to climate change and the loss of plant species, which play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance.
Ecological Resilience: Ecological resilience refers to the capacity of an ecosystem to absorb disturbances while maintaining its essential functions, structure, and identity. This concept emphasizes that ecosystems can recover from various stresses, such as climate change or human activities, and continue to support biodiversity and ecosystem services critical for human survival. The degree of resilience is often linked to the diversity and complexity of an ecosystem, highlighting the importance of biodiversity in ensuring that natural systems can withstand and recover from threats.
Ecosystem Restoration: Ecosystem restoration is the process of assisting the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed. This practice aims to return ecosystems to their natural state, enhance biodiversity, and restore the ecological functions that support life. Restoration efforts are critical in combating biodiversity loss and addressing the threats posed by human activities, climate change, and invasive species.
Ecosystem services: Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans receive from natural ecosystems, including provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting services. These services are vital for maintaining human well-being and are directly linked to the health of the environment and biodiversity. The balance of these services can be affected by various factors, making their understanding essential for sustainable living and conservation efforts.
Endemism: Endemism is the ecological state of a species being unique to a defined geographic location, such as an island, nation, or habitat type. Species that are endemic are not naturally found anywhere else in the world.
Exotic species: Exotic species are organisms that are introduced into a non-native environment, often through human activity. They can disrupt local ecosystems and outcompete native species for resources.
Extinction: Extinction is the complete disappearance of a species from Earth, marking the end of its existence. It is a natural part of evolution but has accelerated dramatically due to human activities, leading to significant biodiversity loss. This loss of species threatens ecosystems and the services they provide, contributing to the ongoing biodiversity crisis.
Food webs: Food webs are complex networks that illustrate how energy and nutrients flow through an ecosystem, connecting various organisms that interact as predators, prey, and decomposers. They highlight the relationships between different species, showing how they depend on one another for survival. This interconnectedness is crucial for understanding ecosystem dynamics, population control, and energy transfer.
Forest Stewardship Council: The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international non-profit organization that sets standards for responsible forest management. It aims to ensure that forest products are sourced sustainably and ethically, balancing environmental, social, and economic interests.
Fragmentation: Fragmentation is a form of asexual reproduction where an organism splits into fragments, each capable of developing into a new individual. This method is common in some invertebrates and involves regeneration of missing parts.
Fragmentation: Fragmentation is a form of asexual reproduction where an organism breaks into distinct pieces, each capable of developing into a new individual. This method allows for rapid population increase and is seen in various species, including certain animals and plants. The ability to regenerate lost parts not only helps in species survival but also has implications for biodiversity and ecosystem stability.
Genetic diversity: Genetic diversity is the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species. It is crucial for populations to adapt to changing environments and survive long-term challenges like diseases and climate change.
Genetic diversity: Genetic diversity refers to the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species. It plays a crucial role in the adaptability and survival of populations, as it provides a greater range of traits that can help organisms respond to environmental changes, diseases, and other challenges.
Habitat loss: Habitat loss refers to the process by which natural habitats are transformed or destroyed, leading to a decrease in biodiversity and the ability of species to thrive. This phenomenon is primarily caused by human activities such as urbanization, agriculture, deforestation, and pollution, which not only reduce the area available for wildlife but also fragment ecosystems, making it harder for species to find food, mates, and shelter. Understanding habitat loss is crucial for addressing threats to biodiversity and implementing conservation efforts.
Invasive species: Invasive species are organisms that are introduced to new environments, where they often disrupt local ecosystems and outcompete native species for resources. These species can alter habitats, affect food webs, and lead to declines in biodiversity, making their presence a significant concern in ecological studies.
Keystone species: A keystone species is an organism that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance. The removal of a keystone species can cause significant changes in the structure and diversity of an ecosystem.
Keystone Species: A keystone species is an organism that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance. This means that their presence or absence can significantly influence the structure and dynamics of the entire ecosystem, making them crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance.
Nutrient Cycling: Nutrient cycling refers to the movement and exchange of organic and inorganic matter back into the production of living matter, essential for ecosystem health and sustainability. This process ensures that nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus are reused and recycled within ecosystems, supporting growth and maintaining balance among organisms. By facilitating the breakdown of organic material and its conversion into usable forms, nutrient cycling underpins productivity, energy flow, and biodiversity within ecological systems.
Ocean acidification: Ocean acidification refers to the process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to increased carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from human activities, leading to a decrease in pH levels of seawater. This change in the ocean's chemistry has significant implications for marine life, ecosystems, and biogeochemical cycles, affecting biodiversity and overall ocean health.
Overexploitation: Overexploitation refers to the unsustainable use of natural resources, resulting in the depletion of species and ecosystems. This phenomenon significantly contributes to the loss of biodiversity, as it often leads to the extinction of species and the disruption of ecological balance. When species are harvested at rates that exceed their natural regeneration capacity, it can trigger cascading effects throughout food webs and habitats.
Phenological Changes: Phenological changes refer to the timing of biological events in the life cycle of organisms, such as flowering, breeding, and migration, in response to environmental cues. These changes are increasingly important as they illustrate how species adapt to shifts in climate and seasonal patterns, impacting ecological interactions and biodiversity.
Pollination: Pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from the male anther of a flower to the female stigma, facilitating fertilization and the development of seeds. This process is crucial for the reproduction of angiosperms, as it ensures genetic diversity and successful seed formation. The interaction between pollinators and plants also impacts ecological balance and biodiversity.
Species distributions: Species distributions refer to the geographic areas where different species are found, influenced by a range of factors including environmental conditions, habitat availability, and interactions with other species. Understanding these distributions is crucial for assessing biodiversity and the impacts of environmental changes, particularly when considering threats to biodiversity such as habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species.
Tragedy of the commons: The tragedy of the commons is an economic problem where individuals use a shared resource in their own self-interest, depleting or degrading it, even though this is against the long-term best interests of the group. It often leads to overexploitation and loss of biodiversity.
Trophic cascades: Trophic cascades are ecological phenomena that occur when changes in the population of one species, often a predator, have a ripple effect throughout the entire food web, influencing the abundance and distribution of multiple other species. These cascades can significantly alter community structure and ecosystem dynamics, highlighting the interconnectedness of organisms within an environment. Understanding trophic cascades is crucial for grasping how ecosystems function and how human activities can disrupt these delicate balances.
Urbanization: Urbanization is the process by which an increasing percentage of a population moves from rural areas to urban centers, leading to the growth and expansion of cities. This shift often results in significant changes in social, economic, and environmental dynamics, as cities become more densely populated and diverse. As populations migrate to urban areas in search of better opportunities, the effects of urbanization can influence both human population trends and biodiversity.
Water Purification: Water purification is the process of removing contaminants and impurities from water to make it safe for human consumption and other uses. This process is crucial for ensuring access to clean water, which directly affects public health, ecosystem stability, and overall biodiversity. Effective water purification methods help mitigate the negative impacts of pollution and habitat degradation on aquatic environments and the species that rely on them.
White-nose syndrome: White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a fungal disease that affects hibernating bats, caused by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans. It has led to significant declines in bat populations across North America.
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47.4 Preserving Biodiversity