a. State five : (i) challenges that make conservation of resources difficult; [5 marks] (ii) ways by which the Government of a country ensures conservation ...

a.    State five :
    (i) challenges that make conservation of resources difficult;    [5 marks]
    (ii) ways by which the Government of a country ensures conservation of natural resources.    [5 marks]

b.    What is an endangered species?    [3 marks]

c.    A child with blood group O was born to a mother of blood group A.
    (i) What is the blood group genotype of the child?    [1 marks]
    (ii) What are the possible blood group genotypes of the father?    [3 marks]

d.    State three reasons why genetic variation is important to plants.    [3 marks]

Answer Details

a. (i) Five challenges that make conservation of resources difficult are:

1. Economic development and population growth leading to increased demand for natural resources.
2. Climate change and its impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity.
3. Deforestation and loss of habitats for wildlife.
4. Overfishing and depletion of marine resources.
5. Corruption and lack of enforcement of conservation laws and regulations.

(ii) Ways by which the Government of a country ensures conservation of natural resources are:

1. Enacting and enforcing laws and regulations that protect natural resources.
2. Implementing sustainable use policies, such as quotas and catch limits for fishing.
3. Designating protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife reserves.
4. Supporting research and monitoring programs to better understand and manage natural resources.
5. Engaging local communities and stakeholders in conservation efforts.

b. An endangered species is a type of organism that is at risk of extinction due to a decline in its population size or range. These species are considered to be in danger of disappearing permanently, and conservation efforts are needed to protect them and their habitats.

c. (i) The blood group genotype of the child with blood group O is ii (homozygous recessive).

(ii) The possible blood group genotypes of the father are:

1. IAi (homozygous dominant)
2. I Ai (heterozygous)
3. IBi (homozygous dominant)

d. Three reasons why genetic variation is important to plants are:

1. Adaptation to changing environmental conditions: Genetic variation allows plants to adapt to changing environmental conditions, such as changes in temperature, rainfall, and soil quality. This helps them to survive and thrive in different environments.
2. Increased resistance to pests and diseases: Genetic variation can increase a plant's resistance to pests and diseases, as some individuals may have genetic traits that make them more resistant to certain threats.
3. Improved crop yields: Genetic variation can lead to the development of new crop varieties that have improved yields, better quality, and greater resistance to pests and diseases. This can help to increase food production and improve food security.