Biodiversity Chapter Summary

Biodiversity and ecosystems work hand in hand with one another. Without one, it is unlikely to have a thriving version of the other. Biodiversity is defined as the variety of species that are found in a natural state. Many consider this to be talking about species of animals, however, this includes ecosystems and genetic diversity. Chapter six tells how biodiversity contributes to what we know as biological wealth. This can largely determine how one sees a country’s wealth and economical capital. There are about eight different basic ecosystems given in chapter seven. These include to following: forests and woodlands, grasslands and savannahs, deserts and tundra, croplands, wetlands, coastal oceans and bays coral reefs, and open oceans. The overall natural species that can be found in each of these ecosystems are referred to as biota. Collectively, the biota species and the ecosystems we find them in are responsible for providing all the natural resources we know to have. Chapters six and seven discuss the values, reasons for loss and consequences, and protection and restoration habits for biodiversity and different …show more content…
The Endangered Species Act was put into use to provide protection for endangered and threatened species. The Lacey Act “forbids interstate commerce in illegally killed wildlife” (p.145). Other acts to protect biodiversity can be for a specific species like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act or the Golden Eagle Protection Act. A major key to keeping track of threatened and endangered species is a taxonomy. This is a record of all the different species in need. Some successful recoveries include the Bald Eagle and the Oregon Chub. National parks, reserves, and land laws have been set in place for ecosystems. Non-profit organizations play a huge role in keeping people motivated about volunteering and acting in support for ecosystems and