Campbell Biology (10th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321775651
ISBN 13: 978-0-32177-565-8

Chapter 56 - 56.2 - Concept Check - Page 1265: 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.
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