Discussion #3. Habitat Fragmentation & Biodiversity. (30 points total)
Important: This discussion assumes you have prepared by studying Chapter 3 and Chapter 8 in your eText. To promote creativity and diversity of thought, you must create a thread of your own before you can see what other students have written.
Point values: (15 points) Demonstrate knowledge of biodiversity and of habitat fragmentation. Hint: define and provide examples of each term. Apply the information to the situation described below. (15 points) Write an intelligent statement to your fellow citizens and decision-makers regarding the situation described below.
INSTRUCTIONS
The real estate developers say cutting down the single 100-acre forest does not matter. Their reason? They say many 1-acre plots of forest still exist scattered throughout the area. If you add them up, they say, these 1-acre forests provide the same benefits to humans and biodiversity as does the single 100-acre forest.
Please answer the following: Are the developers correct? Do one hundred (100) 1-acre fragments of forest provide the same benefits as a one (1) 100-acre stand of forest?
Please comment on the following: Would you vote for the new shopping mall and condominium complex? Or would you vote to leave the 100-acre forest in place? Why?
As you answer why you will vote one way or the other, consider the real estate development's possible impacts on the community's:
biodiversity
children
general quality of life in your town. What will you choose to tell your fellow citizens and the town's decision-makers at this meeting, and why?
Please demonstrate pride in your work by providing a thorough and thoughtful response. Make a difference!