Understanding What Biodiversity Is
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth. It includes different species, ecosystems, and genetic differences within organisms.
The Levels of Biodiversity
Genetic diversity: Differences within a species that help it adapt.
Species diversity: The number of different plants, animals, and microbes.
Ecosystem diversity: The variety of habitats like forests, oceans, and wetlands.
Why Biodiversity Matters
Biodiversity keeps ecosystems stable and productive. It helps provide clean air, fresh water, food, and medicines, and supports all forms of life.
How Biodiversity Supports Ecosystems
Different species play unique roles. Plants produce oxygen, insects pollinate, predators control populations, and microbes recycle nutrients.
Threats to Biodiversity
Habitat loss, pollution, climate change, overfishing, and invasive species all reduce biodiversity and harm ecosystems worldwide.
Protecting Biodiversity
Conservation areas, sustainable practices, and restoring damaged environments help protect species and maintain ecosystem balance.
The Simple Takeaway
Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth. It keeps ecosystems healthy and supports everything humans and wildlife need to survive.