The term for the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem is biodiversity.
Characteristics of Biodiversity
- Species Diversity - This refers to the number of different species within a particular habitat or ecosystem, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms.
- Genetic Diversity - Within each species, genetic diversity reflects the variation in genetic makeup among individuals, which helps populations adapt to changing environments.
- Ecosystem Diversity - This includes the variety of ecosystems or habitats within a region, such as forests, wetlands, and grasslands, each supporting different communities of organisms.
Importance of Biodiversity
- Ecosystem Stability - High biodiversity contributes to ecosystem stability and resilience by ensuring that ecosystems can recover from disturbances, such as natural disasters or human activities.
- Resource Provision - Biodiversity provides essential resources, such as food, medicine, and raw materials, supporting human health and livelihoods.
- Ecological Services - Diverse ecosystems offer critical ecological services, including pollination of crops, water purification, soil fertility, and climate regulation, which are essential for maintaining the health of the planet and supporting human well-being.
