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The Scientific Importance of Biodiversity

Biodiversity, or the variety of life, is necessary for species survival and the continued functioning of the earth. Since the 1980s, biologists, conservationists and policy makers have recognized the importance of biodiversity and have established that biodiversity is in crisis. Habitat destruction and species extinctions in recent history are approaching a similar scale to the mass extinctions of 65 million years ago. The variety of ecosystems, species and individuals ensures their continued existence.

Biodiversity
- The word "biodiversity" is a combination of the words "biological" and "diversity". There is no consensus on a precise definition of the word. It sometimes refers to all living things or replaces the word "conservation." In general, biodiversity is accepted as the variety of life. Studies in biodiversity vary from the very broad ecosystem diversity and the interactions within ecosystems, to the more specific genetic diversity.
Ecosystem Diversity
- Individual ecosystems perform valuable services for the earth.
  
  An ecosystem is an area with living and non-living components interacting with each other. A variety of ecosystems is necessary for the continued operation of the biosphere. Individual ecosystems, such as tropical rain forests, oceans and wetlands all perform specific functions that ensure the survival of life. Forests provide oxygen and act as a sink for carbon dioxide. Oceans are part of the water cycle, ensuring the continued supply of water through precipitation. Wetlands filter toxins from water and help to prevent flooding. Besides being habitats for specific plants and animals, a diverse group of ecosystems contributes to the entire operation of the earth.
Species Diversity
- There are over 1 million described species on earth including plants, animals, fungi and other organisms. Estimates of species not yet identified, mostly from tropical rainforests, reach as high as 30 million, according to noted ecologist E.O. Wilson. Diversity of species ensures the survival of other species. Each contributes to its own ecological niche with a specific role. Some species are important food sources, while others may act as decomposers. The loss of a species influences all of the other living and non-living components in its habitat.
Genetic Diversity
- Within each species, individuals are genetically unique. They have character traits determined by their genetic material, or DNA. Through mating, individuals pass on traits to their offspring. Those traits may be advantageous or deleterious. The more genetically diverse offspring will have a greater chance of surviving or adapting to changes in their environment.

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