Chapter Outline

25.1 Conservation Biology and Biodiversity

Conservation biology addresses a crisis-the loss of biodiversity. 498

Conservation biology is an applied, goal-oriented, multidisciplinary field. 498

Extinction rates have risen to many times their natural levels, and many types of ecosystems are disappearing. 498

Biodiversity includes species diversity, genetic diversity, community diversity, and landscape diversity in marine, freshwater, and terrestrial habitats. 498

25.2 Value of Biodiversity

Biodiversity has both direct and indirect value. 500, 502

25.3 Causes of Extinction

Habitat loss, introduction of alien species, pollution, overexploitation, and disease are now largely responsible for the loss of biodiversity. 504

Global warming will shift the optimal range of many species northward and disrupt many coastal ecosystems. 506

25.4 Conservation Techniques

Because of fragmented habitats, it is often necessary to conserve subdivided populations today. 508

Identifying and conserving biodiversity hotspots and/or keystone species can save many other species as well. 508

Computer analyses can be done to select areas for preservation and to determine the minimal population size needed for survival. 509

Ecological preservation often involves restoration of habitats today. 510

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