The Grow-A-Tree Program Grade 6

What is “biodiversity”?

Biodiversity means “variety of life” Three different types of biodiversity:Diversity of individuals Diversity of speciesDiversity of ecosystems

Biodiversity of Individuals Think of all the

different students in your school

They are all individuals of the same species

Yet all are unique – different height, hair color, personalities, etc

Biodiversity of Individuals

Dogs are great example of biodiversity of individuals of the same species.

Biodiversity of Species

The variety of different species in a habitat or ecosystem

They do not live in isolation, they are all connected to one and other and directly or indirectly depend on each other to survive.

All of the different species in an ecosystem have unique characteristics, attributes and roles.

Which has a greater “biodiversity” of species?

A B

A B

Which has a greater “biodiversity” of species?

How much biodiversity of species is there on earth?There is so much, we don’t know for sure!

Best guesses are:Mammals – More than 5,500!Birds – More than 10,000!Reptiles – More than 10,000!Amphibians – More than 15,000!Fish – More than 40,000!Insects – More than 5 Million different types!!!

Biodiversity of Ecosystems

The variety of different ecosystems Every Ecosystem has unique rolls to play. Some provide food. Some provide oxygen. Some provide shelter and protection. A greater diversity of ecosystems means a

greater number of needed functions for a healthy planet are being filled!

Why is biodiversity important?

Biodiversity is critical to life on earth. Biodiversity makes the earth’s habitats and

ecosystems healthier and more stable. We all depend on the earth’s variety of

ecosystems for fresh air, clean water and food – all of the things we need for life.

Therefore, our lives depend on biodiversity!(That’s pretty important!)

Threats to Biodiversity

Biodiversity on the planet is being reduced at a rapid rate.

Loss of habitat – From Development Pollution – Human Activity Invasive Species - Climate Change – Loss of species like the Polar

Bear

We can protect Biodiversity

Conservation of habitat - set aside areas like parks and ecological reserves where ecosystems and wildlife are not disturbed.

Prevent Pollution – can you think of ways? Stop invasive species.

Plant a Tree!