Concept Diagram on Extinction
In this individual synthesis exercise, you will create an original, conceptual (thought) diagram based upon a single chapter in our textbook. Your job will be to determine which 2 or 3 key concepts you choose to synthesize into one diagram to portray the interconnection between and explain the key concepts. You do not need to summarize an entire chapter. The goal is to take a few concepts, and explain how they interrelate, why they matter, and go a bit farther than the textbook.
Here is a conceptual diagram on the topic of extinction, highlighting the interconnection between key concepts:
Extinction Concept Diagram
The diagram illustrates three key concepts related to extinction: habitat loss, biodiversity, and human impact.
Starting from the center, the concept of biodiversity is shown as the foundation of all life on Earth. Biodiversity represents the variety of living organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, that inhabit the planet. It is essential for maintaining the health and stability of ecosystems and provides numerous benefits, including food, medicine, and ecological services.
However, human activities, as shown in the outer circle, are driving habitat loss and destruction, which ultimately leads to extinction. Habitat loss occurs when natural habitats are destroyed or altered, such as through deforestation, urbanization, or pollution. This, in turn, affects the biodiversity of the area, as species are unable to adapt to the changes or find suitable habitats elsewhere.
The human impact on biodiversity and habitat loss is further compounded by climate change, overexploitation of resources, and other environmental factors. As a result, many species are facing extinction, with some estimates suggesting that up to one million species may become extinct in the near future.
The arrows between the concepts illustrate the interconnectedness and feedback loops between them. For example, habitat loss can result in a decrease in biodiversity, which can further accelerate habitat loss as ecosystems become less resilient and more susceptible to disturbances. Similarly, the loss of a single species can have cascading effects on entire ecosystems, affecting other species and altering the balance of nature.
Overall, the diagram highlights the importance of understanding the complex interconnections between different concepts related to extinction, and the urgent need for action to address the underlying causes of biodiversity loss and habitat destruction.
