Question

3. (a) Explain briefly the following terms: (i) conservation; (ii) endangered species. [6 marks]
(b) State: (i) Five reasons why conservation of forests is important; [5 marks] (ii) Four ways by which forest reserves can be conserved. [4 marks]
(c)(i) What is the importance of decomposers in the ecosystem? (ii) Name one plant and one animal decomposer. [5 marks]

Accepted Answer

(a)(i) Conservation refers to the judicious use of natural resources to ensure their continuous availability.
(ii) Endangered species are organisms that are very few in number due to man-made or natural causes. These organisms, if care is not taken, stand the chance of becoming extinct.

(b)(i) Reasons for conservation of forests: Forests serve as a source of tourism. It prevents the extinction of some species. Forests serve as natural habitat for some organisms. Forests provide timber for many constructions. Forests play an important role in the maintenance of oxygen and carbon dioxide balance.
(ii) Ways of conserving forest: Controlled deforestation. Ensuring afforestation. Establishment of forest reserves. Enactment of sustainable forest laws.

(c)(i) Decomposers help to release nutrients from plants and animals remains for plants' uptake.
(ii) Earthworm is a good example of an animal decomposer, while mushroom (a fungus) is an example of a plant decomposer.

WAEC Biology 2012 Theory — Question 3

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