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What Is the Connection between Biodiversity and Conservation?

Esther Ejim
Esther Ejim

In any environment that might be a biome, an ecosystem or a collection of ecosystems there are usually a variety of species that make up the living organisms in that environment. There are also natural habitat formations and characteristics unique to that location, all of which contribute to a delicate balance that must be maintained for the continued harmonious existence of that habitat. The connection between biodiversity and conservation is the fact that conservation is a purposeful and concerted effort aimed at the sustenance, repair and promotion of the desired balance in a habitat. Effort in the conservation of biodiversity is usually targeted toward some specific part of the equation that make up the habitat or ecosystem, which is perceived to be under some kind of threat due to various natural or man-made factors.

One of the ways in which biodiversity and conservation are connected is in the area of the reversal of trends leading to the extinction of species. When it is discovered that the number of the members of a particular species has fallen to a very low level, conservation efforts will be targeted toward addressing the stressors that are the cause of such a trend. An example of a species that is currently under conservation is the giant panda. Part of the reason for the low numbers of giant pandas is due to the loss of their natural habitat as a result of industrialization and other forms of encroachment by human beings into their historical natural habitat. The major conservation technique used to reverse this sharp decline in the number of giant pandas include the establishment of protected areas that simulate their natural habitat, such as zoos and natural game preserves.

The giant panda's survival may depend on conservation.
The giant panda's survival may depend on conservation.

The connection between biodiversity and conservation is not limited to the conservation of animals. An example of another target of conservation includes natural coral reef formations. These coral reefs play an important role in the marine ecosystem, but due to various factors, both natural and artificial, the general health of some major coral reefs in different locations around the world experienced a decline. This led to targeted efforts on the part of marine biologists and other concerned environmental activists to try and nurture the coral reefs back to their normal state. Most times, the conservation efforts are funded by various governments, or they may be funded by endowments or charitable organizations established for the specific purpose of preserving that particular aspect of the ecosystem. This corporation between various concerned parties further shows the relationship between biodiversity and conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is biodiversity important for ecosystem health?

As coral reefs are inhabited by many species, any decline in their health can cause a sharp drop in local biodiversity.
As coral reefs are inhabited by many species, any decline in their health can cause a sharp drop in local biodiversity.

Biodiversity is the foundation of ecosystem services to which human well-being is intimately linked. It ensures natural sustainability for all life forms by providing a wide array of functions such as food production, nutrient cycling, pollination of plants, and regulation of climate. A diverse ecosystem is more resilient and can better withstand environmental stress, thus maintaining its functionality and services.

How does conservation help in maintaining biodiversity?

There are six subspecies of tigers that are important parts of the biodiversity to their native regions.
There are six subspecies of tigers that are important parts of the biodiversity to their native regions.

Conservation efforts aim to protect species, habitats, and ecosystems from excessive rates of extinction and erosion of biotic interactions. These efforts mitigate threats such as habitat destruction, overexploitation, and invasive species. By preserving natural habitats and restoring damaged ecosystems, conservation helps maintain the balance and diversity of life that is crucial for the health of our planet.

What are the consequences of losing biodiversity?

Losing biodiversity can lead to the disruption of ecological balance and the loss of ecosystem services. According to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, this can result in decreased food security, higher vulnerability to natural disasters, and the loss of genetic resources for medicine and agriculture. Ultimately, it can lead to the collapse of ecosystems, which are vital for human survival.

Can biodiversity loss affect human health?

Yes, biodiversity loss can have direct and indirect impacts on human health. For instance, a decrease in plant diversity can limit the discovery of potential new medicines. Moreover, the loss of biodiversity can affect the prevalence and distribution of infectious diseases by altering the habitats of vectors and hosts, as noted by the World Health Organization.

What role do individual species play in biodiversity?

Each species plays a unique role in an ecosystem, contributing to its structure and function. Keystone species, for example, have a disproportionately large impact on their environment relative to their abundance. The loss of a single species can lead to significant changes in an ecosystem, affecting many other species and the ecosystem services upon which humans rely.

How can individuals contribute to biodiversity conservation?

Individuals can contribute to biodiversity conservation through everyday actions such as supporting sustainable agriculture practices, reducing waste, using fewer plastic products, and planting native species in their gardens. Additionally, participating in citizen science projects and supporting conservation organizations can have a positive impact on preserving biodiversity at local, national, and global levels.

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    • The giant panda's survival may depend on conservation.
      The giant panda's survival may depend on conservation.
    • As coral reefs are inhabited by many species, any decline in their health can cause a sharp drop in local biodiversity.
      By: pirosa
      As coral reefs are inhabited by many species, any decline in their health can cause a sharp drop in local biodiversity.
    • There are six subspecies of tigers that are important parts of the biodiversity to their native regions.
      By: hitdelight
      There are six subspecies of tigers that are important parts of the biodiversity to their native regions.