Campbell Biology (11th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-13409-341-0
ISBN 13: 978-0-13409-341-3

Chapter 56 - 56.2 - Concept Check - Page 1268: 1

Answer

Biodiversity does not only refer to diversity of species.

Work Step by Step

Biodiversity constitutes diversity in species, genetic information, and systemic relationships throughout an ecosystem. A loss of species through extinction is indeed one part of the crisis, but there are other components. Diminishing individual populations contribute to a loss of genetic diversity and the destruction of ecosystems long before that species actually becomes extinct. A loss of genetic diversity and ecosystem disruption interferes with a population's ability to adapt and thrive, causing a negative impact to their overall health and well-being. As different species interact and rely on one another within an ecosystem, this impact ripples outwards from any individual affected population.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.