Biodiversity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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biodiversity
[baษชoสdaษชหvษหrsษชti ]
Definition
ecology science
Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of life forms on Earth. It encompasses the different species of plants, animals, and microorganisms, as well as the ecological complexes they are part of. Biodiversity is critical for ecosystem health and resilience, providing numerous services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation. A rich biodiversity contributes to the stability of ecosystems and helps them withstand environmental changes. However, biodiversity is under threat from human activities, making its conservation vital.
Synonyms
biological diversity, ecosystem variety, species richness.
Examples of usage
- Preserving biodiversity is essential for sustainable development.
- The rainforest is known for its incredible biodiversity.
- Biodiversity loss can lead to ecosystem collapse.
Translations
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Origin of 'biodiversity'
The term 'biodiversity' originates from the merging of two words: 'bio,' derived from the Greek 'bios' meaning life, and 'diversity' which comes from the Latin 'diversitas' meaning variety or difference. It was first coined in the early 1980s as part of a growing concern over the extinction of species and the degradation of ecosystems. Scientists and conservationists sought a term that could describe the varying levels of biological organization and the complex interdependencies between species. The concept gained widespread recognition during the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, which highlighted the critical importance of preserving the planet's biological wealth. Since then, biodiversity has become a focal point for global conservation efforts and environmental policy discussions, emphasizing the need for strategies to protect diverse biological systems amidst threats like climate change and habitat destruction.