Class 12 Biology Chapter 13
Biodiversity and Conservation
Important Questions

Explanation:
Biodiversity, the variety and variability of life on Earth, is crucial for the survival and wellbeing of human populations, as well as the health of the planet's ecosystems. Its importance and the need for conservation include:

• Ecological Stability: Biodiversity contributes to the stability and resilience of ecosystems. Diverse ecosystems are better able to withstand environmental changes and disturbances.
• Economic Value: Many species provide economic benefits, such as food, medicine, and raw materials. The loss of biodiversity can therefore have significant economic impacts.
• Ecosystem Services: Biodiversity provides vital ecosystem services including air and water purification, pollination of crops, carbon sequestration, and nutrient cycling.
• Genetic Resources: Genetic diversity within species is crucial for adaptation to changing environments and for breeding programs in agriculture, animal husbandry, and forestry.
• Cultural and Aesthetic Value: Biodiversity enriches cultures and provides recreational, spiritual, and aesthetic values.
• Scientific Understanding: Biodiversity is fundamental to the study of ecological interactions and evolutionary processes.

The conservation of biodiversity is essential due to the increasing threats from human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, overexploitation, climate change, and the introduction of invasive species. These threats not only lead to the loss of species but also the degradation of ecosystems and their services. Conservation efforts are therefore necessary to ensure the sustainable use and management of biodiversity, for the benefit of current and future generations.