BiodiversitySection 1 Objectives Describe the diversity of species types on Earth, relating the difference between known numbers and estimated numbers. List and describe three levels of biodiversity. Explain four ways in which biodiversity is important to ecosystems and humans. Analyze the potential value of a single species.

BiodiversitySection 1 Biodiversity (biological diversity) –the variety of organisms in a given area – the genetic variation within a population –the variety of species in a community –the variety of communities in an ecosystem. Certain areas (tropical rainforests) contain an extraordinary variety of species. Humans need to understand and preserve biodiversity for our own survival.

BiodiversitySection 1 Unknown Diversity The number of species known about 1.7 million –most are insects Actual number of species unknown. –estimate: greater than 10 million

BiodiversitySection 1 Unknown Diversity

BiodiversitySection 1 Unknown Diversity Unknown species exist in all areas Species harder to study receive less attention than large, familiar species.

BiodiversitySection 1 Levels of Diversity Species diversity –differences between populations of species –differences between species. Ecosystem diversity –variety of habitats, communities, and ecological processes within and between ecosystems

BiodiversitySection 1 Levels of Diversity Genetic diversity –different genes contained within all members of a population.

BiodiversitySection 1 Benefits of Biodiversity Ecosystems Biodiversity can affect the stability of ecosystems and the sustainability of populations. Healthy ecosystems ensure balanced cycles of energy and nutrients. Every species is connected to others in some way, loss breaks food web

BiodiversitySection 1 Keystone species critical to the functioning of the ecosystem in which it lives affects the survival and abundance of many other species in its community. An example: sea otter in kelp beds

BiodiversitySection 1 Genetic variation increases the chances that some members of the population may survive environmental pressures or changes. Inbreeding means members of the population may become more likely to inherit genetic diseases Genetics

BiodiversitySection 1 Drugs (1/4 in US) derived from plants Antibiotics derived from chemicals in fungi New chemicals and industrial materials being developed from chemicals discovered in all kinds of species. Medical and Industrial Uses

BiodiversitySection 1 Medical Uses

BiodiversitySection 1 ethical reasons –have a right to exist whether or not they have any other value. aesthetic or personal enjoyment Ecotourism: tourism that supports the conservation and sustainable development of ecologically unique areas. Ethics, Aesthetics, and Recreation