What is biodiversity?

Biological diversity, or biodiversity, is the number of species – animals, plants and microorganisms – found in a certain area. The concept also includes the genetic variability of these species, since no organism is absolutely identical to any other. Biodiversity also covers the variety of communities in which these species live.

Biodiversity is the basis for all life. Without it, our Earth would be a planet like Mars, an inhospitable, dead place.

Diversity in a meadow A habitat with greater biodiversity often appears more colourful and diverse.