1. Habitat Loss and Fragmentation

2. Figure 2, page 87

3. Why is fragmentation bad?
Fragmentation of ecosystems reduces their sustainability.
In a fragmented ecosystem, a larger area of the habitat is exposed to damaging outside influences (such as pollution)

4. How can we enhance ecosystem sustainability?
Create a chart on a piece of paper as we explore each habitat option!

5. size Better choice: Poor choice:
Large blocks support larger and more stable populations and communities.

6. number Better choice: Poor choice:
One large area is better than an equal area of smaller areas because there is less outside inflience

7. proximity Better choice: Poor choice:
The closer the ecosystem fragments are to each other, the greater the chance populations will be able to use the entire area.

8. connectedness Better choice: Poor choice:
Interconnected areas provide wildlife corridors and permit migration between larger blocks.

12. Seems funny, but there might be a message here…
Deer crossing video

13. integrity
Poor choice
Better choice
Access by roads and trails can increase pollution, hunting, and fishing