Human Impact on US Ecosystems Quiz
Deforestation, habitat loss (10 questions).
Human Impact on US Ecosystems Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Human interaction with the environment has reshaped the US landscape. From the clearing of the Eastern woodlands to the draining of wetlands, anthropogenic changes have led to significant habitat loss and fragmentation.
Less than 4% of tallgrass prairie remains today.
Over 50% of wetlands in the lower 48 states have been lost.
Eastern forests were heavily cleared for farming by 1850.
Urbanization creates barriers that isolate wildlife populations.
Key Takeaways
- Agriculture is the leading historical cause of deforestation in the US.
- Habitat fragmentation breaks large ecosystems into isolated patches.
- Fire suppression has paradoxically increased wildfire intensity in the West.
- Mountaintop removal physically alters topography in the Appalachians.
- Invasive species (e.g., Kudzu) often thrive in disturbed human landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is habitat fragmentation?
It occurs when large, continuous habitats are divided into smaller, isolated patches, usually by roads, cities, or farms.
Which US biome is most endangered?
The Tallgrass Prairie is considered one of the most endangered, with roughly 96-99% converted to farmland.
How does urbanization impact ecosystems?
It replaces natural land cover with impervious surfaces, alters hydrology, and creates heat islands.
Why were wetlands drained historically?
They were viewed as wastelands and drained primarily for agricultural land and mosquito control.
What was the main driver of New England deforestation?
Between 1600 and 1850, settlers cleared forests primarily for pasture and crops.
GeoQuizzy Editorial Team is a collective of geography educators, researchers, and quiz designers dedicated to creating accurate, engaging, and exam-relevant geography content. The team focuses on physical geography, human geography, maps, landforms, climate, and world regions, transforming core concepts into interactive quizzes that support students, educators, and competitive-exam aspirants. Every quiz published on GeoQuizzy is carefully reviewed for factual accuracy, clarity, and alignment with academic curricula and standardized exams.