| Date | November 2018 | Marks available | 1 | Reference code | 18N.1.SL.TZ0.9 |
| Level | Standard Level | Paper | Paper 1 | Time zone | Time zone 0 |
| Command term | Identify | Question number | 9 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
The resource booklet provides information on Algonquin Provincial Park in Canada. Use the resource booklet and your own studies to answer the following.
Identify one benefit of the reintroduction of beavers in Europe.
Identify one potential problem with the reintroduction of beavers in Europe.
Markscheme
This question requires “Resource Booklet - Nov 2018 SL paper 1”, available under the "your tests" tab > supplemental materials.
beavers increase diversity of habitats with their dams which increases biodiversity;
opportunities for ecotourism as people can see the beavers;
beavers once lived in this area so this is ecosystem restoration;
additional food source for other species, eg wolves;
possible economic benefits if trapped for pelts;
increased genetic diversity of beaver population / can breed with other beavers and increase beaver population;
to restore wetland habitat.
Do not accept “beavers build dams that regulate water flow”.
This question requires “Resource Booklet - Nov 2018 SL paper 1”, available under the "your tests" tab > supplemental materials.
increased damage to property (through gnawing wood);
flooding when beaver dams collapse / beaver dams can cause flooding;
increased conflicts between landowners and beavers;
upset/unbalance the food webs / outcompete other species / competition with other species;
impact on existing habitats / create short-term changes;
people are not used to them so will not know how to manage them;
poaching is a risk in a region with a high density of human population;
genetics of introduced population may be very different from that of original stock;
may not adapt well to new location and die;
may have no natural predator to limit population.
Do not accept “beavers are an invasive/alien species”.
Examiners report
This question was extremely well answered, with most candidates recognising that beavers are introduced into Europe to restore wetlands.
