Blog Post #2

Biodiversity and Its Importance

    My definition of biodiversity: Biodiversity is the interlocking web of life from the smallest bacteria to the largest of blue wales. It encompasses every animal, plant, fungi and microorganism. 


    When we think of biodiversity in the local sense, we think of the unique ecosystems that we all might walk through. We see the bees pollinating flowers, who in turn give pollen that will make the honey for the bees. We see the fungi break down fallen trees so that they may be used by other critters. There are unique systems that the fauna and flora all participate to make each local eco system thrive. Each place both environmentally and culturally important. We walk, play, and learn in these areas. 
    Then we think of biodiversity in the regional sense. No ecosystem has hard borders that the plants and animals cannot pass through. The ecosystems interact, making the local borders very flexible. The biodiversity flows through the many ecosystems in an area to keep it healthy. Should any area be devastated from natural disaster, it would make sense that those from within the region might try to rehome those areas, starting with various plants until animals could start living there as well. We as humans gain benefits from the regional biodiversity, as we can collect timber for homes and fish for food. 
    When we look at biodiversity nationally, we can talk about how it is our identity. Every state has a bird and a flower. We have an incredible national park system that we use to observe the myriad of biodiversity we have. The biodiversity can shape a country, especially economically. 
    Lastly, we have biodiversity at an international level. The biodiversity Earth provides us has helped us grow into the species we are today. Each country has a unique biodiversity that has helped them grow economically and medically. We are able to eat food that has been grown in various other countries and we in turn can provide food from our biodiversity right back. Biodiversity (and lack there of) affects climate change and living conditions for all creatures around the world. 
    Biodiversity, whether local, regional, national, or global, is important. Preserving it ensures stability economically, socially, and means that we get to keep these areas that are important to us culturally. There are many levels to biodiversity that interconnects in its own web to sustain life. Plus, it provides a beautiful view.





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