BIOL 111 Study Guide - Final Guide: Estuary, Precautionary Principle, Mingw
3 Mar 2016
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Document Summary
An overview of aquatic biodiversity: lakes, rivers, and wetlands occupy only 1% of the earth"s surface. The greatest marine biodiversity occurs in coral reefs, estuaries, and the deep ocean floor. Biodiversity is higher near coasts than in the open sea due to more producers and habitats. Biodiversity is higher in the bottom (benthic) region of the ocean than the surface (pelagic). The lowest marine biodiversity probably is found in the middle depths of the open ocean. Human impacts on aquatic biodiversity: the greatest threat to the biodiversity of the world"s oceans is loss and degradation of habitats. During the last century, we lost about half of the world"s coastal wetlands. About of the world"s diverse coral reefs have been severely damaged, mostly by humans. The loss or degradation of beach habitat where they come ashore to lay eggs. The legal and illegal taking of eggs. The increased use of turtles as sources of food, medicinal ingredients, jewellery, and leather.
