Biodiversity
•Describes the variety of life across all levels of ecological organization. •Includes •Genetic diversity •Species diversity •Ecological (Ecosystem)diversity Genetic Diversity •The variation in genes that exists within a species •Organisms with a large gene pool have a greater chance of surviving and flourishing than a population with limited genetic variability. •Ex: resistance to disease, tolerance to cold •Darwin termed this process “natural selection.” Species Diversity •The number of species and abundance of each species that live in a particular location •The hottest spots for species diversity are close to the equator. •Tropical rain forests comprise only 6% of all land on Earth yet are home to nearly 50% of all the species on Earth. Ecological (Ecosystem) Diversity •The variety of ways that species interact with each other and their environment. • •Ex: Coastal plains of the Gulf differ from the plains of central America by the types of species found there, as well as the temperature and rainfall. Benefits of Biodiversity •Boost ecosystem productivity •A larger number of plant species means a greater variety of crops. •Healthy ecosystems can better withstand and recover from a variety of disasters. •Greater species diversity ensures natural sustainability for all life forms. A healthy biodiversity provides a number of natural services (benefits) for everyone. Ecosystem Services •Protection of water resources •Soil formation and protection •Nutrient storage and recycling •Pollution breakdown and absorption •Contribution to climate stability •Maintenance of ecosystems Recovery from unpredictable events Biological Benefits •Food •Medicinal resources and pharmaceutical drugs •Wood products •Ornamental plants •Breeding stocks, population reservoirs •Future resources •Diversity in genes, species and ecosystems Social Benefits •Research, education, and monitoring •Recreation and tourism •Cultural values Comments are closed.
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Erik E. Mason
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