Regarding humans as the central element of the universe
Biodiversity:
Variety of plant and animal species on Earth
Includes variability within and between species and within and between ecosystems.
Biologists most often define biodiversity as the "totality of genes, species, and ecosystems of a region".
Biodiversity refers to the range of wild and cultivated species in a biome. It is the variation of species and genetic make-up of plants and animals.
Biodiversity Hotspot:
Areas of the highest biodiversity in the world, under threat from destruction.
To qualify as a as a "Biodiversity Hotspot", the area must contain at least 1500 species of vascular plants (which is 0.5% of the world's total), specific to the region. The area must have also lost at least 70% of its original habitat.
A biodiversity hotspot is a region of the Earth which is extremely biologically diverse and also under severe threat due to habitat loss, climate change, or extensive species loss. Around 25 sites worldwide are recognized as biodiversity hotspots
Biome
Ecosystem at a continental scale covering a large area, with vegetation characteristics that are predominantly influenced by climate. e.g. A tropical rainforest biome found in areas with an equatorial climate.
Ecocentric:
Serious concern over environmental problems, focusing on the needs of the natural environment.
The view that nature has intrinsic value and should not be valued only in terms of its use for human beings
A philosophy that claims moral values and rights for both organisms and ecological systems and processes.
Focusing on the environmental factors than social ones
Ecosystem
A dynamic, stable system characterised by the interaction of plants and animals (biotic components) with each other and with the non-living (abiotic) components of the environment.
An ecosystem can be considered on any scale from a small area, such as a pond or a hedge, up to an are4a as large as the earth itself.
Sustainable Development
Sustainable development describes the use of natural resources in a way that meets human needs whilst preserving the environment and ensuring those resources are available to future generations.
ECOSYSTEMS AND CHANGE: Key Terminology
Anthropocentric:
Biodiversity:
Biodiversity Hotspot:
Biome
Ecosystem at a continental scale covering a large area, with vegetation characteristics that are predominantly influenced by climate. e.g. A tropical rainforest biome found in areas with an equatorial climate.Ecocentric:
Ecosystem
A dynamic, stable system characterised by the interaction of plants and animals (biotic components) with each other and with the non-living (abiotic) components of the environment.
An ecosystem can be considered on any scale from a small area, such as a pond or a hedge, up to an are4a as large as the earth itself.
Sustainable Development
Sustainable development describes the use of natural resources in a way that meets human needs whilst preserving the environment and ensuring those resources are available to future generations.
Also see: Glossary for Ecosystems