Biology Ch 25 Glossary

Front 1

conservation biology

Back 1

International systematic survey of the full range of biodiversity, analysis of its evolutionary and ecological origins, and identification of methods to maintain and use it for the benefit of the human population.

Front 2

coral reef

Back 2

Formation produced by massive colonies containing billions of tiny coral animals, called polyps, that secrete a stony substance (calcium carbonate) around themselves for protection. When the corals die, their empty outer skeletons form layers that cause the reef to grow. They are found in the coastal zones of warm tropical and subtropical oceans.

Front 3

ecoregion

Back 3

Broad land or ocean region defined by climate, geography, and producer species.

Front 4

endangered species

Back 4

Endemic (native) species highly vulnerable to extinction.

Front 5

habitat island

Back 5

A region with endemic species (e.g., a forest or lake) located within a sea of habitats unsuitable for sustaining them.

Front 6

habitat loss

Back 6

Reduction in suitable living space and habitat closure through chemical pollution.

Front 7

hot spot

Back 7

Limited area where human activities are driving many species to extinction.

Front 8

strip logging

Back 8

A way to minimize downside of deforestation; only a very narrow corridor that parallels contours of sloped land is cleared; the upper part is used as a road to haul away logs, then is reseeded from intact forest above it.