CES Ecological Risk Assessment & Biodiversity 3

Question 1

Which of the following stressors is considered a 'chemical stressor' in the ERA stressor characterization phase?

Accepted Answer

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in sediment

Answer

PCBs are chemical contaminants that constitute a chemical stressor category in ERA, distinct from physical or biological stressors.

Question 2

Under the Endangered Species Act, which agency has jurisdiction over marine and anadromous species?

Accepted Answer

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Answer

NOAA Fisheries (NMFS) has ESA jurisdiction over marine mammals and anadromous fish, while USFWS covers terrestrial and freshwater species.

Question 3

A bioaccumulation factor (BAF) differs from a bioconcentration factor (BCF) in that BAF:

Accepted Answer

Includes dietary and waterborne exposure routes

Answer

BAF reflects accumulation from all exposure routes including diet, while BCF is measured only from waterborne exposure in lab settings.

Question 4

The concept of 'umbrella species' in conservation biology refers to a species whose protection:

Accepted Answer

Covers the habitat needs of many other co-occurring species

Answer

Umbrella species have large habitat requirements such that protecting them simultaneously protects many other species within their range.

Question 5

In the Habitats Directive (EU), 'favorable conservation status' for a species requires all EXCEPT which of the following?

Accepted Answer

The species is present in every member state

Answer

Favorable conservation status requires stable/expanding population, adequate habitat, and stable range — but not presence in every EU member state.

(CES) Certified Environmental Scientist Practice Test