Biodiversity Introduction Graphic Organizer

Diversity of Species Level of variety varies in different ecosystems Not all species on Earth have been identified and catalogued Number of KNOWN species = 1.7 million (mostly insects) Most believe that more than 10 million different species exist Unknowns may be found in remote wilderness, deep in the oceans, and even cities

Levels of Biodiversity Species Diversity: number of different species in an area Ecosystem Diversity: variety of habitats, communities, and ecological processes Genetic Diversity: all the different genes within all the members of the population

Importance of Biodiversity Species are connected to ecosystems Critical to ecosystem health (ex. Keystone Species) Population survival (genetic diversity is crucial) Medical, Industrial, and Agricultural uses 1/4 of medicines come from plants Food, clothing, shelter

Potential Value of Species Ethics: all species and ecosystems have a right to exist regardless of value Belief of certain cultures and religions Aesthetics and Recreation: personal enjoyment is a factor Having pets, camping, watching wildlife Ecotourism: supports conservation in ecologically unique areas