Section outline

  •  

    Graphic shows the words, "Biodiversity - animal species, plant species, ecosystem inorganic/organic," over a map of the world

    Image: Waneen C. Dorsey/Grambling State University, CC-BY-NC

    Biodiversity refers to the variety of living species on Earth. It encompasses a vast network of both simple and complex organisms, with estimates ranging from about five million to one trillion and beyond. This network provides nature with clean water, air, fertile soil, climate control, possible remedies, food and nutrition, recreation and restoration, and stimulated inspiration. However, this important living network is vulnerable and in danger. Millions of plant and animal species are at risk of extinction and/or gradual elimination. The intensive extraction of certain components of biodiversity in the name of growth and development has greatly impacted our ecological and natural living equilibrium. To avoid irreversible natural disasters, the decline of biodiversity must be stopped immediately. This will provide time and the much-needed opportunity to restore biological complexities, and ecosystems that have been impacted.  

    Module Goals and Objectives

    Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:
    1. Describe methods and techniques used to measure and assess biodiversity, including species richness, species abundance, and diversity indices.
    2. Identify and analyze various threats to biodiversity, such as habitat loss, pollution, climate change, invasive species, and overexploitation.
    3. Discuss and evaluate conservation strategies and management practices aimed at preserving biodiversity, such as protected areas, habitat restoration, sustainable resource management, and captive breeding programs.
    4. Identify techniques for monitoring population dynamics, distribution, and abundance of species.

    These outcomes address course learning objectives #1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 11. 

    To achieve these objectives: 
    1. Read the Module 3 Introduction.
    2. Review the Slide Presentation for this module
    3. Read Chapter 3 in Pressbooks.
    4. Complete all assignments, discussions, and assessments for this module as listed below. 

    • Chapter 3 PowerPoint Presentation File
      Students must
      Mark as done

      This file is the Chapter 3 PowerPoint Presentation.

    • Textbook Chapter 3 URL
      Students must
      Mark as done

      Please read the entire chapter on Biodiversity and complete all of the included h5p activities. 

    • Chapter 3 Focused Reading Quiz
      Students must
      Mark as done
Accessibility
Reset All

Background Colour Background Colour

Font Face Font Face

Font Kerning Font Kerning

Font Size Font Size

1

Image Visibility Image Visibility

Letter Spacing Letter Spacing

0

Line Height Line Height

1.2

Link Highlight Link Highlight

Text Colour Text Colour