solar power The use of solar cells to convert sunlight into electricity.
sustainable A rate which meets the needs of the present without impairing future gener-
ations from meeting their needs.
tidal power Power generated from tidal currents.
wind power The conversion of wind energy into electricity via wind turbines.
Points to Consider
- Minimizing use of some resources helps to preserve habitats; for example, conservation
ofhumanwaterusehelpstopreservefreshwaterhabitatsforlocalwildlifeandmigrating
waterfowl. - Habitats are another resource for both humans and other organisms. Now that we
have considered conservation of natural resources, we will move on in the next lesson
to examining the effects of habitat destruction and how to protect habitats. Why do
you think this is an important topic? - Discuss how the protection of natural resources may be important for biodiversity.
- Protection of natural resources, including habitats, is also important to avoid dire
consequences, such as extinction of species. Discuss why.
25.4 Lesson 25.4: Habitat Destruction and Extinction
Lesson Objectives
- Discuss what causes destruction of habitats.
- Explain why habitat destruction threatens species.
- Describe causes of extinction other than habitat destruction.
- Explain why biodiversity is important.
- Explain why habitat protection is important, including for maintaining biodiversity.
Check your Understanding
- What is a habitat?
- What is habitat destruction?
- What is the effect of habitat destruction?
- What is biodiversity? (Figures25.22,25.23and25.24.)