Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · Biodiversity

Biodiversity — practice question

To measure insect biodiversity on Acacia trees in the African savannah, the researchers used this procedure: insecticide was sprayed into every tree; the insects were killed and dropped onto a sheet placed underneath the tree; the dead insects were then gathered, identified and counted.
(a)[3]

The researchers treated each tree as a small, separate ecosystem. Discuss whether an individual tree can be regarded as a small, distinct ecosystem.

(b(i))[1]

Finish Table 5.1 by working out the mean number of insect species for Acacia tortilis.

(b(ii))[2]

From Tables 5.1 and 5.2, pick one name that matches each of these taxonomic ranks: a genus; a species.

(b(iii))[2]

Comment on how sample size affects the quality and accuracy of the data in Table 5.1.

(c)[3]

This study was carried out in Mkomazi Game Reserve in Tanzania. Suggest how research into insect diversity on Acacia trees is relevant to the conservation of bigger animals in the reserve, such as elephants.

(i)[1]

Finish Table 5.1 by working out the mean number of insect species for Acacia tortilis.

(ii)[2]

From Tables 5.1 and 5.2, select a name that belongs to each of the following taxonomic groups: a genus a species

(iii)[2]

Comment on how sample size affects the quality and accuracy of the data in Table 5.1.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 16-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: A tree may count as an ecosystem because biotic and abiotic factors interact within it

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