Biodiversity, Levels, Values and Threats in EVS

What is Biodiversity?

Levels of Biological Diversity

• Genetic diversity
• Species diversity
• Ecological diversity

Genetic Diversity

• This level of biodiversity focuses on the variation in genes within a species.
• Genetic diversity is crucial as it allows species to adapt to changing environmental conditions and increases their chances of survival.

Variation within Genes

• Genetic diversity within a species is crucial for adaptation to changing environments.
• Example: In a population of rice plants, some may have genes for drought resistance, while others may have genes for pest resistance.

Importance for Survival

• Higher genetic diversity enhances a population's ability to survive and reproduce.
• Example: A diverse population of bacteria is more likely to have individuals resistant to antibiotics, ensuring the species' survival.

Genetic Drift and Bottlenecks

• Genetic drift, caused by random events, can reduce genetic diversity over time.
• Example: A small group of animals migrating to a new habitat may carry only a subset of the genetic diversity of the original population, leading to a bottleneck effect.

Human Impact on Genetic Diversity

• Human activities, like selective breeding, can impact genetic diversity.
• Example: Agricultural practices favoring specific crop varieties may lead to a decline in the genetic diversity of those crops.

Conservation Strategies

• Conservation efforts aim to preserve genetic diversity through measures like seed banks.
• Example: Global seed banks store seeds from diverse plant species, ensuring their genetic material is preserved for future use.

Role in Evolution

• Genetic diversity is the raw material for evolution, allowing species to adapt over time.
• Example: The diverse beak shapes in Darwin's finches allowed them to exploit different food sources on the Galapagos Islands.

Species Diversity

• Species diversity refers to the variety and abundance of different species in a particular region or ecosystem.
• It encompasses both the number of species present and the evenness of their distribution.

Richness in Ecosystems

• Ecosystems with high species diversity tend to be more resilient to disturbances.
• Example: Coral reefs, with numerous species of fish, provide stability and ecological balance.

Keystone Species

• Some species play a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecosystem.
• Example: Bees, as pollinators, are a keystone species essential for the reproduction of many flowering plants.

Threats to Species Diversity

• Habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change are major threats to species diversity.
• Example: Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest leads to the loss of numerous plant and animal species.

Biodiversity and Human Well-being

• Species diversity contributes directly and indirectly to human well-being through ecosystem services.
• Example: Bees contribute to crop pollination, ensuring a diverse and abundant food supply.

Indicator of Ecosystem Health

• Declines in species diversity can be an indicator of ecosystem stress or degradation.
• Example: A reduction in amphibian species in a wetland may signal pollution or habitat deterioration.

Conservation Measures

• Conservation efforts involve protecting habitats, establishing reserves, and addressing specific threats to species.
• Example: Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks provide protected areas for diverse species to thrive.

Ecosystem Diversity

• Ecosystem diversity emphasizes the variety of habitats, communities, and ecological processes within an area.
• It includes the interactions between species, their physical environment, and the intricate balance that sustains life.

Ecological Niches

• Ecosystem diversity arises from the presence of various ecological niches, each supporting different species.
• Example: Wetlands, forests, and deserts represent distinct ecological niches with unique flora and fauna.

Biotic Interactions

• Different ecosystems showcase varied interactions between living organisms.
• Example: The predator-prey relationships in a grassland ecosystem differ from those in a marine ecosystem.

Ecosystem Services

• Diverse ecosystems contribute different services like water purification, pollination, and climate regulation.
• Example: Mangrove ecosystems act as natural buffers, protecting coastal areas from storms and erosion.

Vulnerability to Changes

• Ecosystems with limited diversity may be more vulnerable to disturbances.
• Example: A monoculture plantation is more susceptible to diseases than a diverse forest ecosystem.

Anthropogenic Impacts

• Human activities, such as deforestation and pollution, significantly affect ecosystem diversity.
• Example: Urbanization often leads to the fragmentation of ecosystems, impacting biodiversity.

Restoration Efforts

• Conservation initiatives involve restoring damaged ecosystems to enhance diversity.
• Example: Wetland restoration projects focus on re-establishing natural hydrological processes to support diverse aquatic life.

India as a Mega-Biodiversity Nation

Biogeographic Zones of India

• India can be divided into ten biogeographic zones, including the Trans-Himalayas, Himalayas, Desert, and Coasts.
• Each zone boasts distinct ecological characteristics and supports a diverse range of species.
• Each zone boasts distinct ecological characteristics and supports a diverse range of species.

Biodiversity Hotspots

• Within these zones, India hosts several biodiversity hotspots, which are regions with exceptionally high levels of species endemism and threatened biodiversity.
• Examples include the Western Ghats and Sri Lanka hotspot.

Endemic and Endangered Species of India

• India is home to numerous endemic species, which are found exclusively within its borders.
• These species are incredibly vulnerable to habitat loss and other threats.
• Additionally, several iconic species, such as the Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, and Indian Rhinoceros, face the risk of extinction.

IUCN Red List Criteria and Categories

• The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List provides a comprehensive assessment of the conservation status of species worldwide.
• It classifies species into different categories, ranging from "Least Concern" to "Critically Endangered,"
• based on criteria such as population size, decline, and geographic range.

Value of Biodiversity

Ecological Value

• Biodiversity ensures the balance of ecosystems by preventing the dominance of any single species.
• For instance, predators control the population of prey, maintaining a stable food web.
• Adaptation and Evolution: A diverse range of species allows ecosystems to adapt to environmental changes.
• Genetic diversity within species enables them to evolve and survive in response to challenges such as climate change.
• Nutrient Cycling: Different species play vital roles in nutrient cycling.
• Decomposers break down organic matter, releasing essential nutrients back into the soil, supporting plant growth.

Economic Value

• Agricultural Diversity: Biodiversity is essential for agriculture, providing a variety of crops with different traits.
• This diversity enhances resilience to pests, diseases, and changes in climate.
• Medicinal Resources: Many pharmaceuticals are derived from plant and animal sources.
• Biodiversity, especially in regions like India, contributes significantly to traditional medicine and the development of new drugs.
• Tourism Industry: Diverse ecosystems attract tourists. National parks and ecotourism destinations boost local economies, creating jobs and supporting businesses.

Social Value

• Cultural Significance: Indigenous and local communities often have cultural practices deeply connected to specific plants, animals, or landscapes.
• Biodiversity is integral to their identity and traditions.
• Livelihoods: Many communities depend directly on biodiversity for their livelihoods, such as those engaged in farming, fishing, or traditional crafts.
• Conserving biodiversity is essential for sustaining these livelihoods.
• Recreation and Well-being: Access to natural areas with diverse flora and fauna improves mental and physical well-being.
• Parks and green spaces contribute to recreational activities and relaxation.
• Traditional Knowledge: Indigenous knowledge about the uses of various plants and animals for food, medicine, and other purposes is often rooted in biodiversity.
• Preserving this knowledge is crucial for future generations.

Ethical Value

• Every species has inherent value and a right to exist.
• Ethical considerations emphasize the moral duty to preserve biodiversity for its own sake, irrespective of its utility to humans.
• Interconnectedness: Recognizing the interconnectedness of all life forms promotes a sense of responsibility for the well-being of the entire ecosystem.
• Ethical practices involve minimizing harm to other species.
• Stewardship: Humans are viewed as stewards or Servants of the Earth, responsible for safeguarding biodiversity.
• This perspective emphasizes a duty to protect and conserve the natural world for future generations.
• Preventing Extinctions: Ethical concerns drive efforts to prevent the extinction of species caused by human activities.

Aesthetic Value

• Scenic Beauty: Biodiversity contributes to the visual appeal of landscapes.
• Diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to colorful coral reefs, create visually stunning natural scenes.
• Biodiversity Hotspots: Areas with exceptionally high biodiversity, like the Western Ghats in India, attract attention for their aesthetic value.
• These hotspots often harbor unique and visually captivating species.
• Natural Soundscape: The variety of bird calls, insect sounds, and rustling leaves in biodiverse environments adds to the sensory experience.
• Photographic Opportunities: Biodiversity provides endless opportunities for photographers.
• Capturing the beauty of different species in their natural habitats contributes to the aesthetic appreciation of nature.

Threats to Biodiversity

Habitat Loss and Degradation

• The conversion of natural habitats into agricultural land, urban areas, and infrastructure projects leads to the loss of crucial ecosystems.
• Fragmentation further exacerbates the issue by isolating populations and disrupting ecological processes.

Poaching of Wildlife

• Illegal hunting and trade of wildlife, driven by demand for products such as ivory, horns, and skins, pose a severe threat to endangered species.
• Poaching not only decimates populations but also disrupts entire ecosystems.

Man-Wildlife Conflicts

• As human populations expand and encroach upon natural habitats, conflicts between humans and wildlife intensify.
• Crop raiding, livestock predation, and attacks on humans are some of the consequences, often resulting in negative perceptions and retaliatory actions against wildlife.

Biological Invasion with Emphasis on Indian Biodiversity

• The introduction of non-native species into an ecosystem can have detrimental or negative effects on native flora and fauna.
• Invasive species outcompete native species, disrupt ecological interactions, and alter ecosystem dynamics.

Current Mass Extinction Crisis

• The planet is currently experiencing an alarming rate of species extinctions, often referred to as the sixth mass extinction.
• Human-induced factors, such as habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution, are driving this crisis, threatening the stability of ecosystems and the survival of countless species.

Conclusion

• we have explored Levels of biological diversity: genetic, species and ecosystem,
• Value of biodiversity: Ecological, economic, social, ethical, aesthetic, Threats to biodiversity