Biodiversity

BIODIVERSITY

Biodiversity or biological diversity refers to a wide variety of living organisms (plants, animals and other micro organisms) which live in a habitat. It is highly influenced by topography, climate as well as human activities. It represents the strength of the biological resources of a place on earth. In biodiversity, each species, no matter how big or small, has an important role to play in the ecosystem. It maintains the ecological balance and facilitates social benefits such as tourism, education, research etc. over an area.

Loss of biodiversity

The extinction of species (flora and fauna) due to human and natural influences is called loss of biodiversity. The biodiversity loss has a great impact on mankind and also affects land, water, air etc. Habitat destruction due to deforestation, population explosion, pollution and global warming are the major cause for loss of biodiversity. Sometimes, habitat loss is so severe or happens so quickly that it results in a species being eliminated from the planet. Scientists are still trying to decide what caused the mass extinction of dinosaurs.

A healthy eco system provides clean water, pure water, enriched soil, food, raw materials, medicines etc. Hence stable biosphere has to be conserved.