Define biodiversity.

Biodiversity is best characterized as the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. This definition encompasses not only the number of different species but also the variation within species, between species, and within ecosystems. Biodiversity reflects the complex interdependencies among organisms, the genetic differences within those organisms, and the ecosystems in which they reside.

This concept is critical in understanding ecological balance and the health of the planet. High biodiversity typically indicates a healthy ecosystem, as it generally leads to greater resilience against environmental changes and disturbances. It supports ecosystem services that humans rely on, such as clean air and water, pollination of plants, and disease regulation.

While the total number of species in an area can be a factor in measuring biodiversity, it doesn’t capture the full scope of the interactions and relationships that define ecosystems. Ecosystem health and the number of individuals of a species are also important ecological concepts but do not fully encapsulate the wide-ranging and intrinsic variations that biodiversity represents. Thus, focusing on the variety of life offers a more holistic understanding of biodiversity and its significance in preserving ecological integrity.