How Do You Learn About The Biodiversity Benefits Of Ecosystems?
“The value of biodiversity is more than the sum of its parts.” ~ Byran G. Norton At its most basic, an ecosystem is the nature in which all species live. Ecosystems are a key part of the makeup of biodiversity. This article provides a brief introduction of the benefits of ecosystems in the context of biodiversity. • Understand what an ecosystem consists of. Ecosystems are made up of many different species. Just as human beings live in communities, so do animals, plants and microorganisms. An ecosystem exists where a community of plants, animals or microorganisms co-exist. There is a wide range of possible ecosystems, which can be as small as a puddle or as large as a desert, forest, wetland, mountain, lake or river. • Learn about the concept of ecosystem services. Ecosystems are homes to the animals, plants and microorganisms. In addition, ecosystems provide “services” in the way of natural resources and processes that maintain the conditions for life on Earth. The types of ecosystem s
• Understand what an ecosystem consists of. Ecosystems are made up of many different species. Just as human beings live in communities, so do animals, plants and microorganisms. An ecosystem exists where a community of plants, animals or microorganisms co-exist. There is a wide range of possible ecosystems, which can be as small as a puddle or as large as a desert, forest, wetland, mountain, lake or river. • Learn about the concept of ecosystem services. Ecosystems are homes to the animals, plants and microorganisms. In addition, ecosystems provide “services” in the way of natural resources and processes that maintain the conditions for life on Earth. The types of ecosystem services include: • Food provision • Pollination of plants for food production and plant products • Clean air • Water for drinking and using • Fuel • Regulation of water to prevent flooding – for example, mangrove swamps help prevent flooding • Waste removal – breaking down of wastes and recycling nutrients; this is
