Biodiversity and species diversity

In short: Biodiversity covers the variety of species, habitats and the genetic differences within species. It stabilises ecosystems and provides food, medicine and clean air.

In more detail: The more species-rich a system, the better it copes with disturbances such as drought or pests.

In detail

• Number of species: About two million species are described; several million more are estimated to exist.
• Threats: Main causes are habitat loss, overuse, climate change, pollution and introduced species.
• Hotspots: Tropical rainforests, coral reefs and wetlands hold especially many species.
• Protection: Protected areas, sustainable farming, restoration and species protection agreements.
• In everyday life: Buy regionally, avoid peat, keep gardens close to nature and seal less surface (insekten-und-bestaeuber).