Biodiversity I | Biology | Quiz

Which is the best definition of biodiversity?

A tally of all existing species on Earth

The measure of genetic diversity on Earth

An accounting of the full variety of life on Earth

An estimation of the diversity of ecosystems on Earth
The majority of species on Earth have been discovered, named, and classified.

true

false
Why do we measure species relative abundance or "evenness"?

To better understand a species' risk of extinction.

To gauge how the species fits into its ecosystem.

To figure out the best way to conserve a species.

To estimate number of individuals a species contains.
Scientists worry about losing genetic diversity because of _______-level vulnerability.

gene

individual

population

ecosystem
What does a genetic barcode provide information about?

Individual health and species identity

Species identity and relatedness

Relatedness and extinction risk

Extinction risk and individual health
Alexander von Humboldt's work advanced the field by showing that ______.

biodiversity changes with latitude.

biodiversity correlates with longitude.

biodiversity scales with productivity.

biodiversity tracks with heterogeneity.
What does it mean to call the tropics an "engine of global biodiversity"?

Many species inhabit the tropics.

Most species originate in the tropics.

The tropics are a magnet for species.

Tropical climate powers species with energy.
Scientists continue to gather evidence about the causes for biodiversity patterns.

true

false
What does Island Biogeography Theory predict about Mahé Island, the largest island in the Seychelles?

It will have more biodiversity than its neighbor islands.

It will have less biodiversity than its neighbor islands.

It will have equal biodiversity to its neighbor islands.

Its biodiversity cannot be predicted based on size.
Which statement best describes why scientists continue to conduct research on biodiversity patterns?

Mapping where species are distributed allows us to more efficiently exploit natural resources.

Analyzing how biodiversity is patterned is valuable research, even if it doesn't have relevance for humans.

Knowing the current patterns of biodiversity across the globe allows us to better keep it exactly the same.

Understanding the factors that shape biodiversity patterns provides information for managing biodiversity as it changes.