Assignment: Ecology

Introduction

In previous chapters, we learned that life is very diverse. Organisms range from single cells to multi-celled. Some organisms cannot even be seen with the naked eye. Is diversity increasing or decreasing? In the future, will we have more organisms? Does our population play a role in the lives of other organ-isms? Should we be considered if an organism goes extinct? The following exploratory activity will help you understand threats to organisms, what is being done to save them, and how organisms are classified.

Questions 1 - 20 are short answer questions and should be answered in a few words.

Type all answers directly in the data sheet text boxes and upload the data sheet as a .doc, .docx, or .rtf file with your last name and student number when finished. You may need to adjust the textbox size to display all text.

1. In your own words, explain the purpose of the IUCN Red List.

2. What is the scientific name for the Ivory-billed Woodpecker?

3. Are there any similar species? If so, name them.

4. In your own words state where are Ivory-billed Woodpeckers found.

5. What is the current status of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker? What was it before the year 2000?

6. What is the population trend?

7. How many mature Ivory-billed Woodpeckers are estimated to exist? How many sub-populations?

8. In your own words describe the habitat that Ivory-billed Woodpeckers require.

9. How long do Ivory-billed Woodpeckers live?

10. In which Kingdom is the Ivory-billed Woodpecker classified?

11. In which Phylum is the Ivory-billed Woodpecker classified?

12. In which Class is the Ivory-billed Woodpecker classified?

13. In which Order is the Ivory-billed Woodpecker classified?

14. In which Family is the Ivory-billed Woodpecker classified?

15. What is the most significant threat to Ivory-billed Woodpeckers.

16. Describe in your own words what (if anything) is currently being done to protect the species.

17. What is the primary food source for this species?

18. With such low population numbers, why might genetic diversity be a concern?

19. Do you feel that it is worth it to save this species? Explain why or why not.

20. In your opinion, can this species be saved or is it too late? Briefly explain your answer.

Question 21 is an extended response question. Your response should be at least 100 words in length.

21. Considering what you have learned from this activity and the textbook chapters, explain your thoughts about the following statement: "Humans rely on other organisms for survival; however, other organisms would be better off without humans." Take a stand and argue for or against this statement.