Conservation of habitatsAQA A-Level Biology: Mind map

Exam questions on Conservation of habitats

1. A lowland heathland nature reserve is dominated by heather. If left unmanaged, birch and pine seedlings colonise the heath and it develops into woodland. The reserve is home to heathland specialists such as the nightjar and the sand lizard, which need open ground.
   Explain why the number of nightjars and sand lizards would fall if the heathland were left unmanaged.2 marks
2. A coastal wetland in a developing country is a breeding ground for migratory wading birds and a nursery for fish. Local people want to convert part of it into shrimp ponds to provide food and income, while conservation groups want it protected.
   Suggest how the conflict between the local people and the conservation groups could be managed so that both are satisfied.2 marks
3. A nature reserve manager compared three plots of chalk grassland after 5 years. Plot A was grazed by sheep. Plot B was cut once a year and the cuttings were removed. Plot C was left unmanaged. Plot A had 38 plant species and 4 scrub seedlings per 100 m². Plot B had 31 species and 2 scrub seedlings. Plot C had 14 species and 46 scrub seedlings.
   Describe the effect of the management on the number of plant species and the number of scrub seedlings.3 marks