Biodiversity (OCR GCSE Biology A (Gateway Science Suite)): Revision Notes

7.3.1 Biodiversity

Importance of Biodiversity

• Ecosystem Stability: High biodiversity increases the stability and resilience of ecosystems, helping them withstand environmental changes and disturbances.
• Interdependence: Species depend on each other for food, shelter, and other vital services. A diverse ecosystem ensures that these relationships are maintained.
• Resources: Biodiversity provides humans with resources such as food, medicine, and raw materials.
• Cultural Value: Many cultures are closely connected to their natural environments and the biodiversity within them.

Threats to Biodiversity

• Habitat Destruction: Deforestation, urbanisation, and agriculture can destroy habitats, leading to loss of species.
• Climate Change: Changes in temperature and weather patterns can alter habitats and force species to migrate or face extinction.
• Pollution: Air, water, and soil pollution can harm organisms and reduce biodiversity.
• Overexploitation: Overfishing, hunting, and logging can deplete species populations, sometimes leading to extinction.
• Invasive Species: Non-native species introduced to new environments can outcompete, prey on, or bring diseases to native species.

Conservation of Biodiversity

• Protected Areas: Establishing national parks, nature reserves, and marine protected areas helps safeguard habitats and species.
• Sustainable Practices: Promoting sustainable agriculture, forestry, and fishing can help maintain biodiversity.
• Legislation: Laws and treaties, such as the Endangered Species Act and the Convention on Biological Diversity, aim to protect species and habitats.
• Education and Awareness: Raising public awareness about the importance of biodiversity can encourage conservation efforts.