Select all that apply Select all of the arguments for preserving biodiversity hot spots. ? Species found in these areas are found nowhere else. ? More species are evolving in these regions than in other regions of the world. ? Species in these regions have lost at least 70% of their habitat. ? These areas act as source pools for 50% of the world’s keystone species
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answers:
- ✅ Species found in these areas are found nowhere else.
- ✅ Species in these regions have lost at least 70% of their habitat.
Explanation
Biodiversity hotspots are regions that are both rich in endemic species and significantly threatened by human activities. To qualify as a biodiversity hotspot, an area must meet two strict criteria: it must have at least 1,500 species of vascular plants as endemics (species found nowhere else on Earth), and it must have lost at least 70% of its original natural vegetation. Based on these definitions, the two correct arguments for preserving biodiversity hotspots are:
- Species found in these areas are found nowhere else:
Hotspots are home to a high number of endemic species, meaning these organisms exist only in those specific areas. This makes the conservation of such regions critically important. If these habitats are destroyed, the endemic species face a high risk of extinction since they don’t exist elsewhere. Protecting these areas helps safeguard global biodiversity. - Species in these regions have lost at least 70% of their habitat:
Biodiversity hotspots are also defined by the degree of threat they face. Many of these areas have been extensively damaged due to logging, agriculture, urban development, and other human activities. With over 70% habitat loss, the remaining ecosystems are under severe pressure, and without conservation efforts, more species could be lost permanently.
The other two options are incorrect:
- More species are evolving in these regions than in other regions of the world:
While biodiversity hotspots are rich in species, this doesn’t necessarily mean more species are currently evolving there. High biodiversity does not directly equate to high evolutionary rates. - These areas act as source pools for 50% of the world’s keystone species:
There is no evidence that biodiversity hotspots specifically serve as source pools for 50% of all keystone species. Keystone species are critical in many ecosystems, but their distribution isn’t confined mainly to hotspots.
Preserving biodiversity hotspots is essential for maintaining the planet’s biological richness and ecological balance.
