Biodiversity

By Jeveen, Reval, and Stephen

 Genetic Biodiversity
Genetic diversity is the biological variation that occurs within
species. It makes it possible for species to adapt when the
environment changes.
 Examples
Medical Research and Pharmaceuticals: Genetic Agriculture and Food Security: Genetic
diversity within species provides a vast array of diversity within agricultural crops and
potential genetic resources for medical research. livestock is crucial for ensuring food
Scientists can study the genetic makeup of
security. Different genetic traits in
different organisms to discover new compounds,
various plant varieties and animal breeds
enzymes, and genetic traits that may have
offer resistance to diseases, pests, and
applications in medicine and pharmaceuticals. For
changing environmental conditions. For
example, the discovery of certain enzymes in
extremophilic organisms (organisms living in extreme
instance, maintaining a diverse gene pool

environments) has led to the development of heat- for wheat cultivars can help combat
stable enzymes used in DNA amplification for new strains of pathogens that may
genetic testing and medical research. threaten a specific variety.
Examples
Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering: Genetic biodiversity
serves as a basis for genetic engineering and
biotechnological innovations. Researchers can study and
utilize different genes from diverse species to introduce
beneficial traits into other organisms. One example is the
development of genetically modified crops with improved
nutritional content, such as golden rice, which contains
higher levels of vitamin A to address vitamin A deficiency
in regions where rice is a staple food.
 Species Biodiversity
Species Biodiversity refers to the variety of living species on
Earth, including plants, animals, bacteria, and fungi
 Examples
Pollination and Agriculture: Many plant species rely on
pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, to reproduce.
A diverse array of plant species ensures a variety of

01 food sources for pollinators, contributing to their

health and abundance. In turn, these pollinators are
crucial for the successful pollination of crops, which
supports agricultural productivity.

Ecosystem Stability and Resilience: Different species within

an ecosystem play specific roles, and their interactions
create a balance that maintains ecosystem stability. In

02 diverse ecosystems, if one species declines or disappears,

others can often step in to fulfill its ecological role,
preserving overall ecosystem function. For instance, in a
forest ecosystem, various tree species provide habitat and
food for different animal species, contributing to a
balanced and resilient ecosystem.
Examples
Ecotourism and Cultural Value: Species diversity can
attract ecotourism, generating revenue for local
communities and contributing to biodiversity
conservation efforts. Tourists visit diverse ecosystems
to observe and appreciate unique plant and animal
species. Additionally, species diversity holds cultural
value for indigenous communities who have deep
connections with specific plants and animals, forming
the basis of their traditions and practices.
 Ecosystem
Biodiversity
Ecosystems Biodiversity is the name given to the variety of
ecosystems (natural capital), species and genes in the world or in a
particular habitat. It is essential to human wellbeing, as it delivers
services that sustain our economies and societies.
Examples
Ecosystem Biodiversity: Climate Regulation: Diverse ecosystems, such as
forests and wetlands, play a critical role in climate regulation. They
sequester carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gas concentrations in the
atmosphere and mitigating climate change impacts. Flood and Erosion

Control: Coastal and riparian ecosystems, like mangroves and salt

marshes, act as natural barriers against storms, floods, and erosion. They
protect human settlements and infrastructure from the damaging impacts
of extreme weather events.

Water Purification: Many ecosystems, such as wetlands and marshes, act as

natural water filters, removing pollutants and excess nutrients from water
bodies. This purification process helps maintain clean and healthy water
sources for human