What is biodiversity and why does it matter?

Biodiversity refers to the variety of all living things on Earth — including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms — as well as the genetic differences within these species and the ecosystems they form. It encompasses three main levels: genetic diversity (variations within a species), species diversity (the number of different species), and ecosystem diversity (variety of habitats like forests, wetlands, and coral reefs). Biodiversity matters because it plays a critical role in maintaining the health and stability of ecosystems that support life, including human life. Diverse ecosystems provide essential services such as clean air and water, fertile soil for agriculture, pollination of crops, climate regulation, and natural pest control. Moreover, biodiversity contributes to cultural, recreational, and economic benefits, including medicine, tourism, and food security. When biodiversity is lost, ecosystems become less resilient and more vulnerable to disturbances like climate change, disease, and natural disasters. This can lead to the collapse of ecosystems that humans depend on, threatening food supplies, health, and overall well-being. Therefore, protecting biodiversity is vital for sustaining the planet’s life support systems and ensuring a healthy future for all species.