ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

BIODIVERSITY: IT’S
THREATS AND VALUES

GROUP MEMBERS:-
Tanishka Mehta 231008
Mehak Gupta 231123
Suhani Talwar 231161
Savi Rustagi 231155
Harsimar Dharni 231182
Harkamal Singh 231234
INTRODUCTION
TO
BIODIVERSITY
 What is
Biodiversity?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms in a given ecosystem,
encompassing plants, animals, microorganisms, and their genetic
differences. It plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and the
overall health of the planet. Each species contributes to ecosystem
services like pollination, nutrient cycling, and water purification,
supporting life and human well-being. High biodiversity increases
ecosystem resilience, enabling it to better withstand environmental
changes and disasters. However, human activities like deforestation,
pollution, and climate change are threatening biodiversity at an alarming
rate, leading to species extinction and habitat destruction.
Conserving biodiversity is essential for sustainable development, as it
ensures food security, medical resources, and ecosystem stability. Global
efforts, such as the creation of protected areas and restoration projects,
are crucial to preserve the planet's rich biological diversity for future
generations.
 What do you
THREATS VALUES
mean by
Threats to biodiversity include
habitat loss due to deforestation,
Values of biodiversity are numerous.
Ecologically, diverse ecosystems are
urbanization, and agriculture; more resilient and productive,
climate change, which disrupts providing essential services like clean
ecosystems; pollution, particularly air, water, and fertile soil.
Economically, biodiversity supports
from plastics and chemicals;
agriculture, fisheries, and tourism.
overexploitation of species through
Medically, many medicines are
hunting, fishing, and trade; and the
derived from plants and animals.
introduction of invasive species
Culturally, diverse species are
that outcompete native organisms. integral to the traditions and spiritual
These factors lead to declining beliefs of many communities.
populations, extinction, and Biodiversity also holds intrinsic value,
THREATS
TO
BIODIVERSITY
 HABITAT LOSS AND
FRAGMENTATION
1-Habitat
The destruction or severe alteration of natural environments,
reducingLoss
the space and resources available for species.
Threat to Biodiversity:
Displacement of Species: Species lose their homes and resources, often
leading to migration or extinction if they cannot adapt.
Reduction of Ecosystem Services: With fewer habitats, essential services like
pollination, water purification, and soil fertility decline, impacting species
that depend on them.
2. Habitat
The division of large, continuous habitats into smaller, isolated patches, usually due to human
Fragmentation
activities like urbanization and agriculture.
Threats to
Biodiversity:
Isolation of Populations: Fragmented habitats restrict species’ movement, making it hard
to find mates or resources, leading to smaller, more vulnerable populations.
Reduced Genetic Diversity: Isolation limits genetic exchange between populations,
increasing inbreeding and vulnerability to diseases and environmental changes.
 CLIMATE CHANGE
Long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns
caused largely by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and
deforestation.
Threat to
Habitat Biodiversity:
Shifts: Species are forced to relocate as their habitats change,
such as polar species losing ice environments or marine life facing warmer
oceans.

Altered Ecosystems: Changes in climate can disrupt seasonal patterns, like

flowering or migration, leading to mismatches between species and
Increased Extinction
their food sources Risk: Rapid temperature changes can exceed
or habitats.
species' adaptability, leading to increased risk of extinction.

Reduced Resilience: Many ecosystems lose resilience, struggling to

recover from disturbances, which weakens overall biodiversity.
 Pollution
Pollution refers to the introduction of harmful substances or
contaminants into the environment, causing negative effects on air,
water, soil, and ecosystems. It can take various forms, such as air,
water, soil, and noise pollution, each causing damage in different
ways.

• Pollution harms biodiversity by contaminating air, water, and soil,

disrupting ecosystems and threatening species survival.
• Toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and nutrients from industrial and
agricultural activities can poison habitats, while pollution such as
plastic waste and noise disrupts animal behavior and migration.
• Acid rain and climate change further alter habitats, making them
unsuitable for many species.
• As pollution degrades ecosystems, it leads to the loss of species,
reduced genetic diversity, and the collapse of critical ecosystem
services, ultimately diminishing the variety of life on Earth.
 Overexploitation of
biodiversity
Overexploitation of biodiversity refers to the unsustainable use of natural resources, such as
plants, animals, and ecosystems, beyond their capacity to regenerate. This excessive
harvesting, hunting, fishing, and logging can lead to the depletion or even extinction of
species, disrupt ecosystems, and reduce biodiversity.
Key Causes:
Overfishing: Harvesting marine species faster than they can reproduce.
Illegal Wildlife Trade: Poaching and trafficking of endangered species for
profit.
Deforestation: Unsustainable logging and land conversion for agriculture.
Unsustainable Agriculture: Overuse of land and resources for crops and
livestock.
Overharvesting of Medicinal Plants: Excessive collection of plants for
commercial use.

Consequences:
Species Extinction: Many species face extinction due to unsustainable
exploitation.
Ecosystem Disruption: Loss of biodiversity weakens ecosystems, disrupting
services like pollination, water purification, and climate regulation.
Loss of Genetic Diversity: Decreases species' ability to adapt to
 Invasive Species Disease and
what are invasive
Invasive species are non-native organisms that Pathogens
species cause harm to the environment, economy, or
human health.
• They are introduced (intentionally or accidentally) into ecosystems where they do not
naturally occur, and can rapidly spread, often outcompeting native species.
How invasive species threaten
biodiversity
• Competition: Invasive species often outcompete native species for resources like food,
habitat, and space.
• Predation: Some invasive species prey on native species, disrupting food webs.
• Habitat Alteration: Invasive species can alter ecosystems (e.g., by changing soil composition
or water quality), making it difficult for native species to survive.

Invasive Species and Ecosystem

Imbalance
• Invasive species can reduce biodiversity by displacing native species and diminishing the
resilience of ecosystems.
• The loss of native species reduces the functional diversity of an ecosystem, weakening ecosystem
services (such as pollination, water purification, and soil health).
 Introduction of Disease and
• Invasive species can introduce new diseases and pathogens to native species, causing
Pathogens
rapid declines in population.
• Pathogens include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites that native species have no
Case Study 1: Batrachochytriumimmunity to.
dendrobatidis (Chytrid Fungus)
• Host: Amphibians (frogs, salamanders)
• Impact: The chytrid fungus has caused mass mortality in amphibian populations globally,
leading to declines in biodiversity in many ecosystems.
• Mechanism: The pathogen affects the skin of amphibians, disrupting respiration and leading to
death.
Case Study 2: The Role of Invasive Plants in Disease Transmission
• Example: The introduction of non-native plants like Eucalyptus in certain regions has altered
the balance of ecosystems and facilitated the spread of new pathogens.
• Impact: These plants can host pathogens that infect native species, further contributing to
biodiversity loss.
Pathogens as Emerging Threats to Biodiversity
• Pathogens introduced by invasive species can:
⚬ Spread rapidly in new environments (often aided by global trade and travel).
⚬ Cause irreversible damage to ecosystems and native species, reducing biodiversity and
resilience.
Addressing the Threat
• Prevention and Early Detection: Managing the movement of species across borders, along with
early detection systems, is crucial.
• Biological Control: Research into natural predators or competitors to control invasive species
can be an important tool in restoring balance.
VALUES
OF
BIODIVERSIT
Y
 AESTHETIC
VALUES
The aesthetic values of biodiversity refer to the ways in which the
variety of life on Earth enhances our lives through beauty, inspiration,
and a sense of wonder. These values are often subjective, deeply tied to
human emotions, and contribute to cultural and spiritual experiences
that foster appreciation for nature. Here are some key aspects of the
•aesthetic values
Natural Beauty: of biodiversity:
Diverse ecosystems and landscapes provide unique and beautiful views. Forests,
coral reefs, mountains, and grasslands, each with their unique array of species, offer visual and
emotional richness that people find calming, refreshing, and awe-inspiring.

• Artistic Inspiration: Biodiversity has been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, musicians,
and photographers throughout history. The variety of colors, shapes, and sounds in nature fuels
creativity across art forms. From nature-themed paintings to nature-inspired poetry and music,
biodiversity serves as a creative muse.

• Sense of Connection and Well-being: Observing and interacting with nature can improve mental
health by reducing stress and increasing feelings of peace and contentment. This sense of
connection to other forms of life can deepen an individual’s appreciation for biodiversity, often
translating into a desire to protect it.

• Ecotourism and Recreation: Biodiversity is a primary attraction for ecotourism, which allows
people to experience diverse ecosystems, see exotic species, and explore different habitats.
 INFORMATIONAL
VALUES
The informational values of biodiversity refer to the knowledge and understanding that
we gain from studying various species and ecosystems. This value is essential for
science, medicine, agriculture, and technology, as it provides critical insights that help
humanity thrive. Here are some key aspects of the informational values of biodiversity:

• Scientific Research: Biodiversity is a living library of species, each with unique

genetic material and adaptations. Studying these organisms provides valuable
information about evolution, genetics, physiology, and ecology, helping us
understand fundamental processes of life.

• Medicinal Knowledge: Many medicines are derived from plants, animals, and
microorganisms. By studying biodiversity, scientists discover new compounds for
treating diseases, managing pain, and improving health. For example, plants like the
rosy periwinkle contain compounds used to treat cancer
ECONOMIC VALUES
The economic values of biodiversity refer to the direct and indirect financial benefits
that humans derive from ecosystems and the variety of life within them. Biodiversity
plays a crucial role in supporting economic activities, industries, and livelihoods across
the globe. Here are some key aspects of the economic values of biodiversity:
• Provision of Resources: Biodiversity provides essential resources, such as food, medicine, timber, fiber, and fuel. Many
industries, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, forestry, and fisheries, depend on diverse species for raw materials. For
example, crops, livestock, and medicinal plants directly contribute to the economy and provide livelihoods for millions.

• Genetic Resources for Agriculture: Biodiversity provides genetic material used to improve crop resilience, increase yield,
and enhance nutritional value. By cross-breeding plants with wild relatives or introducing genes from other species,
scientists can develop crops better suited to withstand diseases, pests, and climate changes, ultimately contributing to
food security and agricultural sustainability.

• Raw Materials for Innovation: Various species have unique chemical compounds, structural features, and behaviors that
inspire new products and technologies. For example, studying spider silk has led to innovations in materials science, and
learning from microorganisms has advanced biotechnology. These discoveries fuel industries like biomedicine, agriculture,
and engineering.

• Climate Regulation and Disaster Mitigation: Forests, wetlands, mangroves, and coral reefs act as natural barriers,
protecting coastal areas from storm surges, floods, and erosion, which would otherwise result in costly damages. Forests
store large amounts of carbon, which helps to regulate the global climate, and wetland ecosystems absorb excess rainfall,
reducing the risk and costs associated with flooding.

• Job Creation: Biodiversity-based sectors, such as sustainable forestry, fishing, agriculture, and tourism, create jobs and
improve livelihoods. Many people depend directly on biodiversity for their work, especially in rural and indigenous
 ECOLOGICAL
VALUES
Ecosystem Stability: Biodiversity maintains ecosystem
resilience, enabling ecosystems to respond to
environmental changes and disturbances like climate
shifts or natural disasters.
Nutrient Cycling: Various species contribute to essential
processes like decomposition, nutrient cycling, and soil
fertility, all of which sustain plant and animal life.
Pollination: Biodiversity supports pollinators (e.g., bees,
butterflies) that are essential for the reproduction of
many crops and wild plants.
Climate Regulation: Diverse ecosystems, especially
forests and wetlands, help regulate the Earth's climate by
storing carbon and balancing atmospheric gases.
 ETHICAL VALUES
Ethical value relates to the inherent rights of species to exist, irrespective of their utility
to humans. This perspective argues that all living beings have an intrinsic right to thrive
and that humans have a moral duty to protect biodiversity.

• Respect for Life: Protecting endangered species like tigers and

pandas due to their inherent right to survive, rather than any direct
benefit to humans.
• Future Generations: Preserving biodiversity so that future
generations can experience and benefit from the natural world in its
richness.
• Cultural Reverence: Indigenous communities often view certain
species as sacred or hold a deep respect for the interconnectedness
of life, which guides conservation efforts.
 SOCIAL VALUES
Biodiversity provides social value by enhancing human well-being, culture, and
livelihoods. It supports industries, creates jobs, and is deeply intertwined with
cultural identities and practices.

• Ecotourism: Protected areas and natural reserves like the Great Barrier
Reef or the Amazon rainforest attract millions of tourists, supporting
local economies and raising awareness about conservation.
• Traditional Medicine: Many communities use native plants for medicinal
purposes. For example, the neem tree is used in India for its
antibacterial properties.
• Cultural Identity: Certain species and ecosystems hold symbolic
importance within various cultures. For instance, the bald eagle is a
national symbol in the United States, and the lotus flower is significant
in Indian culture.