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Thesis Abstract – Hashimoto (2006)

Title:

The Effect of Biodiversity Upon Ecosystem Invasibility and Economic Valuation of Biodiversity

Author and college:

Emily Hashimoto, Claremont McKenna College

Date:

April 24, 2006

Degree:

Bachelor of Arts in Biology

Advisor:

Diane Thomson, Joint Science Department of Claremont McKenna, Pitzer, and Scripps Colleges

Abstract:

Two aspects of biodiversity are considered in this thesis: the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functionality and the economic valuation of biodiversity within an ecosystem. The first component is examined through evidence collected from a potted experiment, conducted at the Bernard Field Station (BFS). Results from this experiment show that native species are strong invading competitors and that biodiversity suppresses invasibility but the sampling effect plays a large part in this conclusion. The latter portion of this thesis argues why biodiversity should have a monetary price tag. Methods of biodiversity valuation including damage-cost avoidance, replacement cost, change in productivity, hedonic pricing, the travel cost method, contingent valuation, and benefit transfer are discussed. Drivers of environmental change are summarized and their effects upon environmental outcomes are considered.

For more information:

Contact Diane Thomson – dthomson@kecksci.claremont.edu