4.3 conservation of biodiversity. arguments for preserving species ethical aesthetic genetic...
TRANSCRIPT
Arguments for preserving species
• Ethical• Aesthetic• Genetic Resources• Commercial• Life Support/ecosystem support functions
Genetic Resource• Diversity of gene
pool• Ensures future
variety of life• Needed for stable
ecosystems (disease/natural selection)
UNEP• United nations environmental program• Provide leadership and partnerships worldwide
WWF• World Wildlife Fund• Independent conservation organization• Draw attention to major issues and influence
policy and decision making• 252 million dollars in 1995
Greenpeace• Independent campaigning organization• Non-violent, creative, confrontation• Draw attention through issues by “bearing
witness”
Ecoterrorists • Greatest terrorist threatto our country• Animal Liberation Front
(ALF)• Earth Liberation Front
(ELF)• Arsons, bombings,vandalism andharassment
Key Terms
• Corridors- Strips of land that link reserves together
• Ecotone- where two habitats meet near a boundary
• Edge effect- occurs at ecotones because more species are present from the two habitats (increased resources)
Criteria used to Design protected areas• Size: – How large should area be?– One large or many small areas?– How many individuals must be protected? – Reduce Edge Effect
• Shape: What is the best shape?• Proximity: How close together? • Corridors: Reserves Joined or separated?
CITES
• Conservation of International trade in endangered species (CITES)
• Reduced trade in endangered species – Appendix I: cannot be traded threatened with
extinction– Appendix II: can be traded but with strict
regulation– Appendix III: Included at request of country to
help regulate illegal exploitation
Species based approach to conservation
Strengths Weaknesses
Focus on 1 at a time Species do not exist in isolation
Media- High profile species captures attention
Media doesn’t like unglamorous organisms
More research Research needs the context of whole environment
Focus on species diversity Ignores community and ecosystem biodiversity
Breeding, reintroduction, zoo programs Doesn’t ensure protection of habitat
Only need key species How do you decide on key species?