Sustainability and conservation of speciesEdexcel A-Level Biology A: Mind map

Exam questions on Sustainability and conservation of species

1. A packaging company is developing carrier bags made from a bioplastic produced from the starch in maize grain. The company wants to replace bags made from polythene, which is made from crude oil, and it wants to claim that the new bags are more sustainable.
   Explain why using a plant-based plastic instead of a plastic from crude oil may reduce the net release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.2 marks
2. A seed bank holds the seeds of endangered wild plant species. The seeds are dried to a low moisture content, sealed in containers and stored at -20 °C. Staff test samples of each batch for germination every ten years.
   Explain how the seed bank helps to conserve the genetic diversity of an endangered species.2 marks
3. A zoo manages 40 captive individuals of an endangered mammal species. Each animal's parentage is recorded in a studbook, and the zoo exchanges animals with other zoos so that breeding pairs are chosen carefully. The long-term aim is to release some offspring into a protected reserve.
   Explain why the zoo uses a studbook and exchanges animals with other zoos when planning its breeding.3 marks