what are the Local Values of Biodiversity – Using the IUCN Red List to Assess Species Importance

For this activity, you will compose your initial post by including the answers to parts A-D.

Part A. Local threaten species search

1. The Red List of Threatened Species (Links to an external site.) is constantly being updated and modified, use it to find the most current, accurate information.
2. From the web page, select “advanced” next to the search box.
3. Next, click the tab marked “map” found in the middle of the page
4. Now, select the icon in the left top corner of the map (the top option). This is the “draw a polygon” icon. Use this icon to draw a border on the map (a series of points) to the area you want to explore it will then bring up a full list of species listed.
5. On the left of the map is a column of filters click “Redlist Category” and checkboxes “CR” and “EN” the list will then pop up next to the map.
6. These are the species that, without concerted conservation effort, are about to be lost from your country/state

Using the list you generated, consider: What does it matter if these species go extinct in your country? In other words, why are they important?

In a sentence, write down the country/state you selected and the number of CR and EN species on your list.

Part B. Direct use value

Search through the species list and identify one imperiled species that provides significant value as a good or product. Describe that value. Does the species represent a source of food? Of fiber? Of materials? Of medicine? Is it traded? What loss would its extinction represent? Write down the species’ name and your thoughts on its value as a good.

Part C. Indirect use value

Now search through the list of imperiled species of your country/state and identify one species that provides a significant ecological value, function, or service. Describe its ecological value. Ecological values can often be the most elusive to identify so think hard about this species and how it fits into and contributes to the ecosystem where it lives. Does the species provide pollination services? Does it prey on pests? Does it play a role in nutrient and carbon cycles? Think broadly about ecosystem interactions and consider what role this species might play. What ecological loss would this species’ extinction represent? Write down the species’ name and your thoughts on its ecological role.

Part D. Other indirect values – cultural and spiritual value

Now search through the species list and identify one imperiled species that has cultural value. Describe that value. Does the species play a role in myth or literature? Is it beautiful? Is it scary? Is it intriguing or curious? What loss would its extinction represent? Write down the species’ name and your thoughts on its cultural significance to you.

PReference

Gibbs, J. P. (2006). Using the IUCN Red List to Assess Importance (Links to an external site.). Retrieved from http://ncep.amnh.org/resources.php