G.

3 Impact of humans on ecosystems

Simpson Diversity Index

Evenness: How the quantity of each different organism compares with the other. Richness: The kinds of species present in the ecosystem.

n = the total number of organisms of a particular species N = the total number of organisms of all species

Plant Species Marram grass milkweed Poison ivy Sand cress

Number of Individuals (n) 50 10 10 4

n(n-1) 50(49) = 2450 10(9) = 90 10(9) = 90 4(3) = 12

rose Sand cherry

Totals

1 3
n = 78

1(0) = 0 3(2) = 6
2648

D = 78(77)/2648 D = 2.27

The higher the diversity index, the higher number of different species is.

Reasons for conservation biodiversity Economic reasons Ecological reasons Ethical reasons

Aesthetic reasons

Introduction of alien species

Kudzu: deliberate release of an alien species Zebra mussels: accidental release of an alien species Prickly pear: an alien species under control