Why is Species Diversity Important?

Species Diversity - A Comprehensive Analysis

Diversity refers to the wide variety of animals and plants living on this earth. It depicts heterogeneity that persists in nature. For instance, the most diverse aspect that we all are aware of is our country India. Similarly, our ecosystem also has a species diversity, wherein various species of animals and plants live under the same sky.

You should be able to relate the concept of diversity in species and also why is species diversity important. This will help you in acing your NEET exam effectively.

What is Species Diversity?

As already mentioned, the presence of a broad range of organisms in an ecosystem is termed as diversity in species. Starting from molecules to large animals, they all live in a typical habitat. Although their way of living and food habits might differ, yet they live in unison. Hence, this can act as a species diversity example also. So, it is evident that diversity can exist in various aspects. To understand more, look into the further section.

What Constitutes Species Diversity?

One of the central ideas of diversity is that every species is to be equally abundant in the ecosystem. Look at the image below. It shows various animals that thrive on this planet with their unique living conditions.

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The Two Main Aspects are - Evenness and Richness of a Species. 

• Evenness

The number of species present in an ecosystem refers to the evenness of a species. 

• Richness 

The abundance of individuals of a specific species in an environment indicates the richness of that species. 

Both these features are essential to define species diversity. Because only if they fulfil these criteria they can be regarded as helpful for the enrichment of an environment.

On other instance, the species will be required to be taken care of, due to their non-existence. Then that is considered a threat to the specific species which is not consistent in the count, across communities. 

Importance of Species Biodiversity

You might be well aware that living beings in an ecosystem are interdependent for food. This food chain helps in maintaining the ecological balance in nature. It is possible only if there is adequate species biodiversity in the surrounding. 

Apart from this, there are multiple other benefits which are discussed below -

• With a wider variety of plants, the number of producers increases in an ecosystem. As a result, it creates a considerable amount of biomass which is a source of renewable energy.

• An abundance of species diversity prepares the environment for handling any catastrophe as it comes. The evenness makes it bearable for the living organisms as well as plants to tackle the situation and fight it.

• The survival of humankind is also highly dependent on the ecological balance. Having rich biodiversity increases the chances of living for mankind. They obtain various food items from nature itself.

• Rich biodiversity also enhances soil fertility and enables food storage. The bacteria in the nitrogen cycle can perform better in such cases, thereby maintaining the ecological balance. 

• An abundance of plants facilitates the production of oxygen at a considerable amount. It has been found that the Amazon forest is likely to produce one-fifth of the total oxygen on the planet. Thus, diversity has a vital role to play in nature.

Make sure you go through every topic discussed here for a clear understanding on the same. Revise them regularly and make sure you are clear on every aspect right from the grassroots. 

Threats to Diversity in Species

Owing to the current industrialisation, there has been a tremendous threat to ecological biodiversity. The rise in human activities has brought down both the richness and evenness of species diversity. 

The Most Common but Potential Threats to the Ecosystem are

Altogether, there is an immense need to save nature. The rich biodiversity has to be saved and is only possible with awareness among people.

Boost Your Exam Preparation with These Top Tips

With the above discussion, it is evidence that species diversity plays a vital role in maintaining the balance in nature. However, to understand every aspect of nature and diversity, you have to go through the topics regularly.

The NEET exam demands an appropriate answer to a question. So, you should be prepared for the same at every level. Make sure you take mock tests regularly, solve as many question sets as possible, and assess your performance throughout the time.

Besides learning why is species diversity important and other topics, get adequate sleep and ensure a healthy diet in your study routine.