Conservation and Biodiversity IGCSE Biology: Complete Guide

🌍 Understanding Conservation in IGCSE Biology

Conservation protects species and ecosystems for future generations. This guide covers biodiversity, threats, and protection methods.

🧠 Memory Tips

Biodiversity Levels: “Genetic Species Ecosystem”

• Genetic: Variation within species
• Species: Different types of organisms
• Ecosystem: Variety of habitats

Threats: “Habitat Pollution Overexploitation Climate”

• Habitat destruction
• Pollution
• Overexploitation
• Climate change

Conservation Methods: “Protected Breeding Legislation Education”

• Protected areas
• Breeding programs
• Legislation
• Education

📚 Key Concepts

What is Biodiversity?

• Definition: Variety of life on Earth
• Importance: Ecosystem stability, resources
• Levels: Genetic, species, ecosystem
• Hotspots: Areas of high biodiversity

Threats to Biodiversity

• Habitat loss: Deforestation, urbanization
• Pollution: Chemical contamination
• Overexploitation: Overfishing, hunting
• Climate change: Global warming effects
• Invasive species: Non-native competitors

Conservation Strategies

• In-situ: Protect in natural habitat
• Ex-situ: Protect outside natural habitat
• Sustainable use: Meet needs without depletion
• International cooperation: Global efforts

Protected Areas

• National parks: Large protected ecosystems
• Nature reserves: Specific habitat protection
• Marine protected areas: Ocean conservation
• Wildlife corridors: Connect fragmented habitats

🎯 Exam Focus

Common Questions:

1. Explain importance of biodiversity (5 marks)
2. Describe threats to species (6 marks)
3. Compare conservation methods (4 marks)
4. Discuss sustainable development (4 marks)

Key Examples:

• Giant panda conservation
• Coral reef protection
• Rainforest preservation
• Captive breeding programs

🚀 Master Conservation

Excel in conservation biology with comprehensive biodiversity and protection studies.

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