GEOG 1220 Chapter Notes - Chapter 7: Overexploitation, Invasive Species
18 Apr 2016
School
Department
Course
Professor
Document Summary
Chapter 7: conservation of species and habitats (pg. There are several major causes of biodiversity loss. Scientists have identified four primary causes of population decline and species extinction: habitat alteration, invasive species: Almost every human activity alters the habitat of organisms. Since organisms are adapted to the habitats in which they live, any major change is likely to render it less suitable for them. This is the greatest cause of biodiversity loss today. Our introduction of non-native species to new environments, where some may become invasive, has pushed native species toward extinction. Species native to islands are especially vulnerable to disruption because they have been in isolation for so long with relatively few parasites, predators, and competitors (therefore they do not have the defences necessary to resist invaders). Invasive species cause billions of dollars in economic damage each year: pollution:
