Practice 3.4 Conservation of biodiversity with authentic IB Environmental systems and societies (ESS - Old) exam questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank mirrors Paper 1, 2 structure, covering key topics like ecosystems, human impact, and sustainability. Get instant solutions, detailed explanations, and build exam confidence with questions in the style of IB examiners.
Paper
Level
Question 1
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[4]
Describe two approaches to ex-situ plant conservation and their respective advantages.
Question 2
HLPaper 2
1.[4]
Describe two methods for assessing genetic diversity within a population.
Question 3
SLPaper 2
1.[4]
Using named examples, distinguish between the concept of a “charismatic” (flagship) species and a keystone species.
2.[7]
Explain the role of two historical influences who shaped the development of the environmental movement.
3.[9]
Discuss the role of environmental value systems in the protection of tropical biomes.
Question 4
SL & HLPaper 2
Explain how the following approaches contribute to sustainable resource management:
1.[2]
Community-based conservation
2.[2]
Ecosystem-based management
Question 5
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[4]
Describe two strategies for conserving marine biodiversity.
Question 6
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[3]
Explain the concept of "biodiversity hotspots" and their significance in conservation prioritization.
Question 7
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[3]
Define the term "biodiversity loss" and explain its three main levels.
Question 8
SLPaper 1
Figure 1: Fact file on North American beavers
- Typically, one family per square kilometer of river habitat.
- Live in family groups consisting of two adults and up to three kits, born annually between April and June.
- Experience high mortality rates due to harsh weather, limited suitable habitats, and predation.
- North American beaver population:
- Estimated at 250 million before the fur trade.
- Currently around 9 million.
- Primarily feed on tree bark.
- Build lodges using wood and mud, which serve as:
- Safe spaces for eating, sleeping, and raising young.
- Winter shelters where they remain during the colder months.
- Defended structures to keep other beavers out.
- Beavers are being reintroduced in Europe to aid in wetland restoration.
Source: adapted from www.sbaa.ca, www.ecology.info, www.tobyhemenway.com and http://acs7.cortland.edu
Figure 2: Algonquin wolf pack territories and protected areas
1.[1]
With reference to Figure 1, outline one reason why there are more beaver remains in wolf faeces during summer.
2.[2]
The number of wolves in Algonquin Provincial Park is estimated to be between 250 and 1000. Outline two reasons why it is so difficult to estimate the number of wolves accurately.
3.[3]
With reference to Figure 2, explain the threats to the future existence of a small and sustainable population of wolves as a result of their protection in limited area.
Question 9
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[3]
Explain the importance of corridors in landscape-level conservation efforts.
Question 10
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[4]
Describe two international agreements or conventions aimed at biodiversity conservation.