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Answer: Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including plants, animals, microorganisms, and ecosystems. It encompasses genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity, making it a key factor in maintaining the balance of nature.
Key Components of Biodiversity:
Genetic Diversity – The variety of genes within a species (e.g., different breeds of dogs).
Species Diversity – The number of different species in an ecosystem (e.g., tigers, elephants, and birds in a forest).
Ecosystem Diversity – The variety of ecosystems on Earth (e.g., forests, oceans, deserts).
Fun Fact: Scientists estimate that Earth is home to 8.7 million species, but only 1.2 million have been discovered so far!
Why is Biodiversity Important for Human Lives?
Biodiversity is crucial for the survival of all living organisms, including humans. It provides essential resources and services that sustain life.
1. Provides Food and Medicine
Many of the foods we eat come from plants and animals that depend on biodiversity.
Around 25% of modern medicines are derived from plants found in biodiversity-rich forests.
2. Maintains Ecological Balance
Different species play different roles in the ecosystem, such as pollination by bees, oxygen production by trees, and decomposition by fungi.
The extinction of one species can disrupt entire food chains.
3. Supports Livelihoods and Economy
Millions of people rely on biodiversity for jobs in agriculture, fishing, and tourism.
Healthy forests and oceans provide raw materials for industries.
4. Protects Against Natural Disasters
Forests prevent soil erosion and reduce the impact of floods.
Coral reefs and mangroves act as natural barriers against storms and tsunamis.
5. Regulates Climate and Air Quality
Trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂), helping reduce global warming. Wetlands filter pollutants, improving air and water quality.
Threats to Biodiversity
Unfortunately, human activities such as deforestation, pollution, climate change, and illegal wildlife trade are causing biodiversity loss at an alarming rate. Scientists warn that we are in the middle of the sixth mass extinction—caused by human impact!
Scientific Fact: Over 1 million species are at risk of extinction in the coming decades due to human activities.
Biodiversity is the foundation of life on Earth. Without it, ecosystems would collapse, affecting food supply, health, and climate. Protecting biodiversity means ensuring a sustainable future for all living beings.
Common Doubts in Biology
