Why does biodiversity consist of several parts: genetic diversity, species diversity and ecosystem diversity?
The term “biodiversity” literally means “the diversity of life.” This diversity occurs at three levels: genetic, species, and ecosystem. No one form of biodiversity is more important or more correct than any other. Rather, each represents a particular level of organization — from the microscopic to the landscape — that plays a unique role in how we can understand and appreciate all of the patterns and processes of life on Earth. Genetic diversity: Individuals of the same species can have a variety of genetic traits, which can make the individuals different from each other. For example, some individuals may look different from each other while others may be more resistant to disease. Genetic diversity can allow individuals and populations to adapt to local environmental conditions. In addition, the loss of genetic diversity makes a species more prone to extinction. Species diversity: Different regions of the Earth have different types and numbers of species (see “What is a species?”).
