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Archive for January 21st, 2008

January 21st, 2008 | General, Green Byte

What is biodiversity?

Biological diversity, or “biodiversity,” refers to the variety of all life on earth, and the complex relationships among living things, and between living things and their environment. Biodiversity includes genetic variety, species diversity, and variability in communities, ecosystems and landscapes.

Earth is home to an estimated 10 to 20 million species, only a fraction of which are known and scientifically classified. The interdependence among organisms and their environments creates and sustains the conditions needed for survival by all living creatures.

Conservative figures forecast a loss of at least one percent of existing species per decade, which means we’re losing at least two species per hour. That means 50 percent of all mammals and birds will be extinct within the next century. Biologists believe the loss of these resources threaten the functioning of natural systems and the overall well - being of human society.

Why is biodiversity important?

Ecological Values: All living creatures are supported by the interactions among organisms and ecosystems. Loss of biodiversity makes ecosystems less stable, more vulnerable to extreme events, and weakens its natural cycles.

Economic Values: A biologically diverse natural environment provides humans with the necessities of life and forms the basis for the economy. Everything we buy and sell originates from the natural world.

Cultural Values: Most people feel connected to nature, often for reasons that can be hard to explain. Some feel a strong spiritual bond that may be rooted in our common biological ancestry. Others are inspired by its beauty. Human cultures around the world profoundly reflect our visceral attachment to the natural world. Thes cultural diversity is inextricably linked to Earth’s biodiversity.