Biodiversity Matters
Biodiversity, or biological diversity, is the variety of life on Earth, from the smallest bacteria to the largest whales. It encompasses the diversity of genes, species, and ecosystems. A biodiverse ecosystem is more resilient to change and provides essential services that support all life, including clean air and water, pollination of crops, and climate regulation.
Threats to Biodiversity
- Habitat loss and fragmentation
- Climate change
- Pollution
- Invasive species
Why Protect Biodiversity?
- Maintains ecosystem balance
- Supports food security
- Provides medicines and resources
- Helps regulate climate
What is eDNA?
Environmental DNA (eDNA) refers to the genetic material shed by organisms into their environment. This can include anything from shed skin cells and hair to feces and mucus. By collecting and analyzing samples of water, soil, or air, scientists can detect the presence of a species without having to see or capture it.
- Monitoring invasive species
- Assessing endangered species populations
- Mapping biodiversity in aquatic and terrestrial environments
- Detecting pathogens and disease-causing organisms
