Biodiversity Loss. Case study task……… More than 50% of Earth’s rain forests have already been lost Rain forests that once grew over 14 % of the land.

Biodiversity Loss

Case study task………

• More than 50% of Earth’s rain forests have already been lost

• Rain forests that once grew over 14 % of the land on Earth now cover only about 6%

• If current deforestation rates continue, they could disappear completely within the next 100 years.

Threats to the forest:• Population growth – people seek out new land to cultivate in the

forest.• Logging for timber used in flooring and furniture• Power plants and other industries cut and burn trees to generate

electricity.• The paper industry turns huge tracts of rain forest trees into pulp.• The cattle industry uses slash-and-burn techniques to clear ranch

land.• Agriculture eg. soy industry or palm oil clear forests for cropland.• Mining operations clear forest to build roads and dig mines.• Governments and industry clear-cut forests to make way for roads.• Hydroelectric projects flood acres of rain forest.

What is biodiversity?• Biodiversity means biological diversity.• Species diversity -variety of animals and plants• Genetic diversity – variations within species• Ecosystem diversity – interdependence within species

Exam style question:"Destroying rainforest for economic gain is like burning a Renaissance painting to cook a meal." Discuss this statement, focusing upon the consequences of reduced biodiversity in tropical rainforests. [15 Marks]                [Original quote by Edward O. Wilson]

Read pg. 68-711. Write one point on the importance of the rainforest in these

areas:• Biodiversity• Global climate• Rainfall generation• Soil degradation• Water quality• Industry• Health• Subsistence use2. Create or find a diagram to show nutrient cycling in the

rainforest. Describe and explain the process of nutrient recycling in the tropical rainforest

Why is rainforest biodiversity important to people?

• Which of these uses are subsistence?• Which of these uses could be sustainable? Why?

Industrial uses Ecological usesCharcoal Protect water supplylogging Prevent floods and landslidesGums, rubber, resins and oils Control soil erosionTourism Regulate climate eg. CO2 and O2 levelsIndustrial chemicals Habitat for animals and plantsMedicinesGenes for cropsFodder for agricultureFruits and nutsRearing silk worms and bee keeping