Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

Which agencies administer the Endangered Species Act (ESA)?

1. Federal Bureau of Investigation and Environmental Protection Agency

2. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Services

3. Department of Transportation and Department of Agriculture

4. Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Department of Energy

The correct answer is: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Services

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) is primarily administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). The USFWS is responsible for the conservation of terrestrial and freshwater species, while the NMFS focuses on marine species and their habitats. This division of responsibilities allows these agencies to effectively manage and protect endangered and threatened species across different ecosystems. The importance of the ESA lies in its role in providing comprehensive protection for species at risk of extinction and their habitats. The collaboration between USFWS and NMFS ensures that both land and sea species receive appropriate attention and conservation efforts, making their joint administration crucial for effective implementation of the act. Other agencies listed do not have specific responsibilities under the ESA. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Environmental Protection Agency, for instance, focus on law enforcement and environmental regulation rather than species conservation. Similarly, the Department of Transportation and Department of Agriculture deal with transportation infrastructure and agricultural issues, which do not directly pertain to the management of endangered species. Lastly, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Department of Energy are involved in workplace safety and energy regulation, with no mandate related to the protection of wildlife or habitats under the ESA.