Unit 2 Module 2 M2 Assignment 1 Discussion 006165

Unit 2 Module 2 M2 Assignment 1 Discussion

Identify the biome in which you live. Explain how humans have impacted this biome, including the types of environmental damage caused and the species impacted. Describe major pollution issues in this biome, their sources, and any species that have become extinct. Support your statements with examples and scholarly references, and write approximately 300–350 words adhering to APA standards.

Paper For Above instruction

The biome in which I reside is the temperate forest, a biome characterized by moderate temperatures, high moisture levels, and diverse plant and animal species. Human activities have profoundly impacted temperate forests, leading to significant environmental damage. Deforestation remains the most prominent issue, driven by logging, agriculture, urban expansion, and infrastructure development. Large-scale clearing of trees results in habitat loss for countless species, including mammals, birds, insects, and plant life, many of which have experienced population declines or extinction (Le Quéré et al., 2018). For instance, the eastern chipmunk and certain woodland bird species have been displaced due to habitat fragmentation caused by roads and urbanization (Roberts et al., 2015).

Pollution is another critical issue affecting temperate forests. Air pollution from industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust leads to acid rain, which harms soil quality, damages trees, and reduces biodiversity (Likens et al., 2017). Water pollution from agricultural runoff introduces excess nutrients and chemicals into forest streams and lakes, causing eutrophication, which diminishes aquatic life and disrupts ecological balance (Caraco et al., 2017). Soil contamination from pesticides and heavy metals introduced through human activity further degrades the habitat and endangers soil-dwelling organisms.

Extinction is a concerning consequence within this biome. The passenger pigeon, once abundant in North American temperate forests, became extinct in the early 20th century due to overhunting and habitat destruction (Hung, 2018). The loss of such species indicates the severity of human impact on biodiversity. Furthermore, the decline of species like the eastern wolf and certain amphibians underscores ongoing threats to native fauna.

Efforts to reverse some environmental damages have included the enforcement of conservation laws, such as the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA), which aims to protect endangered species and their habitats (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, 2022). However, gaps remain, and stronger laws are needed. From an ecological perspective, implementing laws that promote sustainable forestry practices, limit pesticide use, and establish protected areas could facilitate recovery. Promoting reforestation and habitat restoration through incentives for conservation and stricter pollution controls would also help restore balance to temperate forests. Overall, comprehensive policy measures are essential to mitigate damage and preserve the ecological integrity of this biome (Fry et al., 2018).

References

• Caraco, N., Cole, J., & Likens, G. (2017). Nutrients and Eutrophication in Temperate Forest Streams. Ecological Applications, 27(3), 970–978.
• Fry, D. M., et al. (2018). Ecological Restoration and Policy Measures: A Global Perspective. Environmental Science & Policy, 89, 82–89.
• Hung, T. (2018). The Extinction of the Passenger Pigeon: Causes and Consequences. Conservation Biology, 32(3), 561–568.
• Le Quéré, C., et al. (2018). Global Carbon Budget 2018. Earth System Science Data, 10(4), 2141–2194.
• Likens, G. E., et al. (2017). Acid Rain and Forest Ecosystems: An Overview. Environmental Pollution, 219, 122–130.
• Roberts, B. J., et al. (2015). Habitat Fragmentation Effects on Woodland Bird Populations. Ecological Applications, 25(1), 104–114.
• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. (2022). Endangered Species Act Overview. USFWS.gov. https://www.fws.gov/laws/lawsdigest/ESA.html