Biodiversity defines the richness and variety of life on earth while being the most complex and important feature of our planet. There is no doubt that without the rich biodiversity our life would not sustain.

Thomas Lovejoy introduced the term biological diversity to the scientific community in a book which later became biodiversity which deals with nature’s variety, the biosphere as well as its importance in natural as well as artificial ecosystems referring to variabilities among plants, animals and microorganism species.

Biodiversity includes the number of different organisms. Also, along with that biodiversity reflects the organization of organisms at different levels holding an ecological and an economic significance providing us with nourishment, housing, fuel, clothing and several other resources.

Biodiversity is also the main reason that helps countries extract monetary benefits through tourism and thus, having a good knowledge of biodiversity is important for a sustainable livelihood.

Types of Biodiversity

Biodiversity has contributed enormously to the development of human culture and, in turn, human communities as well as in shaping the diversity of nature at the genetic, species and ecological levels.

While the concept of biodiversity is an integral part of many human cultures for many centuries, biodiversity plays the following roles:

• Ecological
• Monetary
• Scientific

Types of Biodiversity: Ecological Biodiversity

• The ecological biodiversity can be related to the point that each organism contributes something of use to other organisms besides extracting its needs.
• The most important job done by species that are significant for ecological function and human survival are:
  • Capturing and storing energy.
  • Producing and decomposing organic resources.
  • Helping to cycle water and nutrients throughout the ecosystem.
  • Fixing atmospheric gases and helping to regulate the climate.
• A diverse ecosystem is better for the species to survive through adversities and attacks, and subsequently, is far more productive leading to less loss of species, else it would decline the ability of the system to maintain itself.
• Thus, the more the diversity of species in an ecosystem, the more stable the ecosystem is likely to be.

Types of Biodiversity: Monetary Biodiversity

• Biodiversity is an important resource in their day-to-day life for all humans as it is comprehended as a reservoir of resources to be drawn upon for the manufacture of food, cosmetic products, and pharmaceuticals.
• Some of the significant economic commodities that man derives from biodiversity are:
  • Food crops
  • Livestock
  • Forests
  • Fish
  • Medicinal resources
• The most vital part of biodiversity is ‘crop diversity, which is also known as agrobiodiversity.
• The idea of biological resources is accountable for the deterioration of biodiversity.

Types of Biodiversity: Scientific Biodiversity

• All species can contribute some evidence to show how life evolved and will continue to evolve, which is something that has been in studies for a long time.
• It helps in sensing how life functions work along with the role of each species in sustaining ecosystems that are interdependent.
• Another important scientific role of biodiversity is that it is a good indicator of the state of the relationships of human beings with other living species.

Importance of Biodiversity

• Biodiversity ensures the interdependence of different organisms.
• Biodiversity enlarges the scope of survival of life on this planet.
• Biodiversity encourages the expansion of different species.
• Biodiversity tells us that each specific species has its own function to keep life running on this planet.

Biodiversity in India

• India is one of the most diverse nations in the world ranking ninth in terms of plant species richness.
• 4 of the world’s 36 biodiversity hotspots are found in India.
• India is the origin of important crop species such as pigeon pea, eggplant, cucumber, cotton and sesame.
• India is also a centre of various domesticated species such as millets, cereals, legumes, vegetables, medicinal and aromatic crops, etc.
• India is equally diverse in its faunal wealth having about 91000 animal species found here.
• Wildlife Institute of India, situated at Dehradun works towards ensuring Wildlife diversity in India.

FAQs

MCQs

1. Which of the following is NOT a benefit of biodiversity?

A) Climate regulation

B) Soil fertility

C) Pollution control

D) Global warming

2. What is the primary cause of biodiversity loss worldwide?

A) Deforestation

B) Climate change

C) Habitat destruction

D) Overfishing

3. Which of the following is an example of an ecosystem service provided by biodiversity?

A) Soil erosion

B) Crop pollination

C) Pollution increase

D) Water scarcity

4. Which international agreement focuses on global biodiversity conservation?

A) Kyoto Protocol

B) Montreal Protocol

C) Convention on Biological Diversity

D) Paris Agreement

5. Which of the following is a direct consequence of biodiversity loss?

A) Increase in species variety

B) Loss of ecosystem services

C) Reduction in global temperatures

D) Decrease in soil fertility

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Explain the role of biodiversity in maintaining ecological balance and sustaining life on Earth.

Answer: Biodiversity plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance by ensuring the stability and functioning of ecosystems. Diverse species contribute to nutrient cycling, soil fertility, water purification, and climate regulation. For instance, plants absorb carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change, while animals help pollinate crops, facilitating food production. The genetic diversity within species ensures adaptability to environmental changes, fostering resilience. Moreover, biodiversity supports a wide range of ecosystem services, including the provision of food, medicine, and raw materials, which are essential for human survival. Preserving biodiversity is thus crucial for the health of the planet and its inhabitants.

Q2: Discuss the major threats to biodiversity and the measures that can be taken to mitigate them.

Answer: Major threats to biodiversity include habitat destruction due to deforestation, pollution, overexploitation of natural resources, climate change, and the introduction of invasive species. These threats lead to the loss of ecosystems and species extinction. To mitigate these threats, efforts such as establishing protected areas, promoting sustainable agriculture and forestry, reducing carbon emissions, and controlling invasive species are essential. Additionally, increasing public awareness and engaging in international cooperation through agreements like the Convention on Biological Diversity can help protect biodiversity. Restoring degraded ecosystems and reducing human impact on natural habitats are also key strategies for conservation.

Q3: How does the loss of biodiversity affect human societies and economies?

Answer: The loss of biodiversity negatively impacts human societies and economies by disrupting ecosystem services that are vital for survival, such as food, water, and medicine. The degradation of natural habitats and the extinction of species reduce the availability of resources for agriculture, fisheries, and forestry, leading to food insecurity and loss of livelihoods. The decline in pollinators and other beneficial organisms also affects crop yields, resulting in economic losses. Additionally, biodiversity loss exacerbates the effects of climate change, increases the spread of diseases, and reduces the resilience of ecosystems, making it harder for human societies to cope with environmental changes and natural disasters.

Previous Year Questions on Environmental Issues

1. UPSC CSE Prelims 2020:

Question: Which of the following is a significant cause of biodiversity loss?

A) Overfishing
B) Climate change
C) Habitat destruction
D) All of the above

Answer: (D)

Explanation: Habitat destruction, overfishing, and climate change are all significant contributors to biodiversity loss, leading to species extinction and ecosystem degradation.

2. UPSC CSE Mains 2021 (GS Paper 3):

Question: "Evaluate the steps taken by the government to conserve biodiversity in India and the challenges faced."

Answer: The government of India has taken several steps to conserve biodiversity, such as establishing national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The National Biodiversity Action Plan and the establishment of protected areas have been critical in preserving ecosystems and endangered species. However, challenges such as inadequate funding, human-wildlife conflicts, poaching, and habitat destruction continue to undermine conservation efforts. Strengthening enforcement of laws, involving local communities in conservation, and enhancing international cooperation are key to overcoming these challenges.