Biodiversity
Biological diversity, also called “biodiversity” designates in general the diversity of life. All living beings, whether animals or plants, have their individual features and differ from each other; and they pass this uniqueness also on to their offspring.
All animal and plant species place demands in their habitat and define and shape it by themselves. A complex functional system forms thus the ecosystems known to us, such as forests, meadows, waters, etc. By means of a natural dynamism a mosaic of habitats with a high number of species, which mutually influence each other in a positive way and boost the energy flow and the nutrient cycle in an ecosystem, develops.
In general a habitat with a high biodiversity is more resistant vis-à-vis disturbances (be it natural or human influences) and more productive. This diversity is directly reflected by economic aspects and safeguards also services and goods which are important for us humans
One third of the plants existing on earth need for the pollination the assistance of animals, such as insects, birds, or bats. One third of the global food production depends directly or indirectly on the pollination by insects. As the largest group 20,000 bee species are responsible for 80% of the pollination by insects.
An important approach to preserving and promoting biodiversity is the conservation of different habitats. This is not only to the benefit of the many already endangered animal and plant species, but it increases also the quality of life for us humans.