what are the causes of loss of biodiversity

what are the causes of loss of biodiversity

1 year ago 67
Nature

Biodiversity loss refers to the decline or disappearance of biological diversity, which is the variety of living things that inhabit the planet, its different levels of biological organization, and their respective genetic variability, as well as the natural patterns present in ecosystems. Biodiversity loss is a complex issue involving many overlapping processes, and the main causes of biodiversity loss are:

  • Habitat loss and degradation: This is any thinning, fragmentation, or destruction of an existing natural habitat, which reduces or eliminates the food resources and shelter that species need to survive.

  • Climate change: This is a significant driver of biodiversity loss, as it alters the temperature, precipitation, and other environmental conditions that species need to survive.

  • Pollution: This includes widespread pollution of air, water, and soil, which can harm or kill species and disrupt ecosystems.

  • Invasive alien species: These are non-native species that are introduced to an ecosystem and can outcompete native species for resources, leading to their decline or disappearance.

  • Overexploitation of the natural environment: This includes overfishing, overhunting, and overharvesting of resources, which can lead to the depletion of species and ecosystems.

Biodiversity loss has significant implications for human health, well-being, and economic development, as it affects the provision of ecosystem services such as air purification, carbon sequestration, and population control. Therefore, slowing down biodiversity loss is one of humanitys great challenges, and it requires a concerted effort to address the main drivers of biodiversity loss and set legally binding targets.

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