Easiest research questions for a portfolio presentation about biodiversity. then use your question as the basis of a claim. Make sure your claim is provable or supportable, using evidence from research you can do.

Answer 1

Research Question:

"How does urbanization impact local biodiversity in city environments?"

Claim:

"Urbanization significantly reduces local biodiversity by fragmenting habitats, introducing invasive species, and altering ecosystems."

Evidence and Support:

1. Habitat Fragmentation:

   • Studies show that urban development leads to the fragmentation of natural habitats, making it difficult for species to migrate, forage, and find mates. This degradation reduces species abundance and diversity. For example, research by McKinney (2002) indicates that as cities expand, the natural habitats diminish, leading to a loss of native species.

2. Introduction of Invasive Species:

   • Urban areas are often hotspots for invasive species due to human activities. These species can outcompete native species for resources and disrupt local ecosystems. Research from The Nature Conservancy highlights that invasive plants and animals often flourish in disturbed areas associated with urbanization, further threatening native biodiversity.

3. Environmental Alterations:

   • Urbanization changes key environmental factors such as light, temperature, and moisture. Grimm et al. (2008) note that these changes can create conditions that are inhospitable to many native species while benefiting others, leading to a decline in overall biodiversity.

4. Case Studies:

   • Look at specific case studies in cities like Los Angeles and Singapore, where urban policies have been implemented to encourage biodiversity. Research has indicated a decline in native bird species and insects in Los Angeles, while Singapore has seen efforts to integrate nature into urban planning with mixed results.

5. Quantitative Data:

   • You can gather data from biodiversity assessments in urban versus rural areas. For instance, studies have shown that urban parks can support lower levels of biodiversity compared to adjacent natural landscapes, further supporting the notion that urbanization negatively affects local species.

Conclusion:

The claim that urbanization significantly reduces local biodiversity can be supported through various lines of research, including habitat fragmentation, the spread of invasive species, and environmental alterations. A portfolio presentation could incorporate visuals such as charts or maps depicting species loss, anecdotal evidence from local biodiversity assessments, and comparisons between urbanized and non-urban areas. This research can lead to discussions on mitigation strategies and urban planning that considers biodiversity conservation.