Chapter 5, Problem 43A

Summary Introduction

To explain:

The magnitude of destruction due to biodiversity loss.

Introduction:

Ecology is the study of the interaction of organisms with one another and with the environment. Ecology involves the study of both biotic as well as abiotic components. Biotic components are those that are living like animals, plants, etc. and abiotic components are the non-living components like soil, air, water, etc.

Explanation of Solution

In the living world, we see a large number of microorganisms, animals and plants. These organisms possess some unique characteristics in terms of morphology and behavior that distinguishes them from others. This diversity in the living world is called biodiversity.

Biodiversity is determined by the variety of life forms that are present in a given geographical area. The more biodiversity, the healthier the ecosystem will be. We, as human beings are quite dependent on biodiversity for almost everything. The food we eat, the clothes we wear, the houses that we built, all are gained from nature. Without biodiversity, we will not be able to survive for even a single day. This is the reason why biodiversity conservation is a pressing issue all around the globe. Biodiversity conservation is important as many animals and plants possess some unique features that are of great value to mankind. For example, many herbs in the mountainous regions have medicinal properties. Rhinoceros horns are useful in making medicines. Due to these valuable characteristics, these living creatures are exploited and poached for their skin, horns, tusks, etc. But if the present trend continues, we will not be able to protect these animals and soon they will become extinct. Once a creature becomes extinct from the face of the Earth, it will be difficult to revive the organism’s population even using scientific methods. So, the damage would be irreparable. This is compared to the damage done in case of energy depletion, economic collapse, nuclear war and conquest, whose damage is reparable after a few generations.

Conclusion

The conservation of biodiversity is the need of the hour for today and is essential for sustainable development. It is more serious than any other burning issue globally. Damage due to nuclear wars can be reconstructed in a few centuries, but the damage due to biodiversity loss is beyond repair.