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Biodiversity

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Question 2

In a study of a marine reserve in the Pacific Northwest, researchers monitored the population of sea otters (Enhydra lutris) over several decades. The table below shows the estimated population of sea otters between 1994 and 2022:

YearEstimated Population
19944800
20043400
20122200
2022880
a.

Calculate the average rate of change in the sea otter population between 1994 and 2022. Include the appropriate sign to show whether the population increased or decreased.

[3]
b.

Maintaining biodiversity in this marine ecosystem is of critical importance. The reasons for maintaining biodiversity can be grouped into three main categories: ecological, economic, and aesthetic.

Below are six statements, A to F, regarding the biodiversity of this marine reserve:

  • A: The stunning coastal vistas and the playful behavior of sea otters inspire landscape painters, filmmakers, and photographers.
  • B: Sea otters act as a keystone species by consuming sea urchins, which prevents the overgrazing of kelp forests that serve as critical nurseries for many fish species.
  • C: Ecotourism operators run boat trips to view sea otters and kelp forests, generating significant revenue and employment for local coastal towns.
  • D: Diverse microbial communities in the marine sediment play a critical role in the global carbon and nitrogen cycles.
  • E: Kelp is harvested sustainably to extract alginates, which are used as thickening agents in foods and cosmetics.
  • F: The unique marine landscape of the reserve is highly valued by scuba divers who visit purely to experience the beauty of the underwater environment.

Complete the classification by matching each of the statements (A to F) with its appropriate category. Each letter may be used once, more than once, or not at all.

[3]

Biodiversity Questions

  1. A Level
  2. /Biology
  3. /Biodiversity