The abundance of species that naturally roam the earth function, live, and work together to produce a healthy ecosystem. Biodiversity is the beauty that each element of the universe is contributing to ensure the sustainability of life.
In general terms, biodiversity is the variety of life on this planet at different levels ranging from genes to the ecosystems. It is a combination of ecological, evolutionary, and cultural processes that help sustain life.
What is biodiversity?
As per the American Museum of Natural History, biodiversity is not merely the rare or endangered species on this planet; rather, it represents all the living beings on the earth. The list ranges from human beings to the invisible organisms about which we are rarely aware, including invertebrates, fungi, and microbes as well. Humans, along with substantial cultural diversity, are also considered an integral part of biodiversity.
The term biocultural is generally used to define continuously evolving, dynamic, and interconnected nature of places and people. The term biodiversity also establishes a relationship between land, species, seascapes, along with cultural links to the areas; all of them are associated with the well-being of humans and play a significant role in building a healthy planet.
Now, the biggest question in every mind must be why this biodiversity is so important and what will be the impact if the cycle breaks down. Well, the results may be dangerous.
Wildlife contributes to a healthy ecosystem:
Whether we live in the cities, towns, or small villages, our life is highly dependent on services provided by the ecosystem; it includes food, soil, pollination, water, and medicine as well. If any losses to biodiversity occur, the chain of services may be fraught, and it will affect the widely growing human population. If the resources for human survival get reduced on this planet, the coming generations may find it challenging to live.
We understand that the extinction of one species on this planet may not cause the end of civilization, but when one loses its existence, one more follows the same, and the chain goes on. As all livings things on this planet are connected, losing just one kind of species may affect all.
Climate change is highly dependent on biodiversity:
Some recent reports presented by Conservation International reveal that nature has more than 30% contribution to the climate changes as it helps to keep global warming below 2-degree C. And in this entire process, biodiversity plays an essential role.
When all elements in nature are working fine, meaning biodiversity is intact, the climate stays in favor of the environment. And it helps to maintain the habitats on earth.
Biodiversity and cultures:
The wide range of species, fauna, and flora are an essential part of the culture. Most of the religions also use some elements from nature. Stats reveal that almost 142 countries in the world use around 231 species to represent their national symbols.
The ecosystems, including some protected lands and the national parks, provide a space for the people to interact, explore, and gather. Biodiversity has been a constant source of inspiration for designers and artists as well.
