Chapter 01: Biological Diversity or Biodiversity
The concept of biodiversity has provoked considerable debate and misunderstanding
among the general public, decision-makers, and even the scientific community.
Much has been published on the subject since its first appearance at the National
Forum on BioDiversity in September, 1986, the proceedings of which became the
best-seller, BioDiversity. But what is biodiversity, what threatens it, why is it
important?
Biodiversity is the variety of living organisms existing on Earth. Biodiversity is
composed of the variety of genes, species, and ecosystems. The central element is
the species, as genes in general do not occur isolated in single individuals; they rather
exist in combinations particular to each species. Of equal importance are ecosystems
that provide the basis for the existence of species. Their destruction also very often
threatens the existence of species that depend on them.
On the other hand, the loss of species also threatens the existence of many
ecosystems. The high value of biodiversity for humanity stems from its functions in
stabilizing the biosphere, particularly the global climate, providing direct resources
for consumption, and supporting production. Meanwhile, the objective is globally
recognised that biodiversity must be conserved. The basis of all conservation
measures is a comprehensive inventory and assessment of biodiversity.
The "Convention on Biological Diversity", adopted at the United Nations
Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in June, 1992 in Rio de
Janeiro, created for the first time a comprehensive global foundation for various
international endeavours to protect nature.
Biodiversity can be measured at most important levels, such as the genetic variation
of populations, the number, relative abundance, and uniqueness of species, the
extent and condition of ecosystems, the interrelationships between biodiversity and
ecosystems, and the like.
Estimates of the effects of climate change on crop yields are mainly negative for
the tropics, particularly when considering the description and direct effects of CO2
on plant processes. Ecological output and biodiversity will be untouched by climate
change and sea-level rise, with an amplified risk of destruction of some vulnerable
species. Estimates suggest that human action could lead to the eradication of 20 to
30 million species within the next generation. Natural systems are vulnerable to
climate change, wild tiger numbers have fallen by about 95% over the past 100
years. Tiger survive in 40% less area than they occupied a decade ago. Therefore,
it is of supreme importance to protect our environment by safeguarding our valuable
biodiversity. Biodiversity is imperative not just from of perspective of
conservation.
Terms
Biodiversity: The range of variation found among microorganisms, plants, fungi,
and animals. Also the richness of species of living organisms.
Ecosystem: An ecosystem is a geographic area where plants, animals, and other
organisms, as well as weather and landscapes, work together to form a bubble of
life.
Species: A group of populations of similar organisms that reproduce among
themselves, but do not naturally reproduce with any other kinds of organisms.
Ecology: Ecology is the study of the relationships between living organisms,
including humans, and their physical environment. It helps us understand how
organisms live with each other in unique physical environments.
Community: Populations of organisms of different species that interact with one
another.
Organism: An individual living thing.
Population: A group of individuals belonging to one species living in an area.
Gene: A unit of inherited material. An organism’s collection of genes determines
what it is, what it looks like, and often how it behaves.
Basic Criteria/Type
Definition: "Biological diversity describes life in all the fascinating variety in which
it manifests itself. As defined by the agreement, biological diversity means the
variety of living organisms of any origin, including terrestrial, marine, and other
aquatic ecosystems, as well as the ecological complexes in which they are part of.
This encompasses the diversity both within a given species and among species, as
well as the diversity of ecosystems.”
Types of Biodiversity/ Biodiversity comprises - as stated above - the following
elements:
a. Diversity of genes
b. Diversity of species
c. Diversity of ecosystems
Species diversity
Species diversity refers to the variety of different types of species found in a
particular area. It is the biodiversity at the most basic level. It includes all the species
ranging from plants to different microorganisms.
No two individuals of the same species are exactly similar. For example,
humans show a lot of diversity among themselves. It can vary across different
geographical locations, and the environment influences its variations. For example,
Hilsha is only found in the Padma River.
Genetic diversity
It refers to the variations among the genetic resources of the organisms.
Every individual of a particular species differs from each other in their genetic
constitution. That is why every human looks different from each other. Similarly,
there are different varieties in the same species of rice, wheat, maize, barley, etc.
Different color of roses.
Ecological diversity
Variety of living organisms at ecosystem level. An ecosystem is a collection
of living and non-living organisms and their interaction with each other. Ecological
biodiversity refers to the variations in the plant and animal species living together
and connected by food chains and food webs. Bangladesh has different ecosystems,
such as the Sundarbans and the Hill Tracts area.
What are the Threats to Biodiversity?
The loss of biodiversity is a significant issue for scientists and policy-makers and
the topic is finding its way into living rooms and classrooms. Species are becoming
extinct at the fastest rate known in geological history and most of these extinctions
have been tied to human activity.
Habitat loss and destruction, usually as a direct result of human activity and
population growth, is a major force in the loss of species, populations, and
ecosystems.
Alterations in ecosystem composition, such as the loss or decline of a species, can
lead to a loss of biodiversity. For example, efforts to eliminate coyotes in the canyons
of southern California are linked to decreases in song bird populations in the area.
As coyote populations were reduced, the populations of their prey, primarily
raccoons, increased. Since raccoons eat bird eggs, fewer coyotes led to more
raccoons eating more eggs, resulting in fewer song birds.
The introduction of exotic (non-native) species can disrupt entire ecosystems and
impact populations of native plants or animals. These invaders can adversely affect
native species by eating them, infecting them, competing with them, or mating with
them.
The over-exploitation (over-hunting, over-fishing, or over-collecting) of a species
or population can lead to its demise.
Human-generated pollution and contamination can affect all levels of biodiversity.
Global climate change can alter environmental conditions. Species and populations
may be lost if they are unable to adapt to new conditions or relocate.
Importance of Biodiversity
Biodiversity and its maintenance are very important for sustaining life on Earth. The
diversity of life enriches the quality of our lives in ways that are not easy to quantify.
Biodiversity is intrinsically valuable and is important for our emotional,
psychological, and spiritual well-being. Some consider that it is an important human
responsibility to be stewards for the rest of the world’s living organisms.
Diversity breeds diversity. Having a diverse array of living organisms allows other
organisms to take advantage of the resources provided. For example, trees provide
habitat and nutrients for birds, insects, other plants and animals, fungi, and microbes.
A few of the reasons explaining the importance of biodiversity are:
Maintenance of Ecological Stability
Every species has a specific role in an ecosystem. They capture and store energy and
also produce and decompose organic matter. The ecosystem supports the services
without which humans cannot survive. A diverse ecosystem is more productive and
can withstand environmental stress. If one of elements of biodiversity is missing it
can create an ecological imbalance. Sometimes species has a food chain.
Economic Importance
Biodiversity is a reservoir of resources for the manufacture of food, cosmetic
products and pharmaceuticals. Crops livestock, fishery, and forests are a rich source
of food. Wild plants such as Cinchona and Foxglove plant are used for medicinal
purposes. Wood, fibres, perfumes, lubricants, rubber, resins, poison and cork are all
derived from different plant species. The national parks and sanctuaries are a source
of tourism. They are a source of beauty and joy for many people.
Ethical Importance
All species have a right to exist. Humans should not cause their voluntary extinction.
Biodiversity preserves different cultures and spiritual heritage. Therefore, it is very
important to conserve biodiversity.
Biodiversity Data
Global Biodiversity Species Global database includes over 600,000 species,
including arthropods, mollusks, plants and fungi, across terrestrial, freshwater, and
marine environments, alongside more traditionally-represented vertebrates
(amphibians, birds, fish, reptiles, and mammals). The figure below shows the
composition of our dataset. This expanded database reveals global distribution
patterns, enhancing conservation planning. Among these 70% are animals including
insects, microorganisms and 22% are plants.
Bangladesh is very rich in biodiversity although it was much enriched earlier. Due
to its unique geographic location, climatic condition and large seasonal variability,
diverse ecosystems are naturally created that support rich biodiversity. The various
ecosystems found in the country include hills, forests (Evergreen and Semi-
evergreen forests, Dry-deciduous and Moist deciduous forests), Grasslands,
Reedlands, floodplains, rivers, low-lying islands (Charlands), Ox-bow lakes (Baors),
River-back swamps (Haors), open woodlands (Village groves), low-lying deep
depressions (Beels), ponds, canals, ditches, estuary, coastal mudflats, coastal
islands, mangrove swamps, coral-bearing island and marine ecosystems. The
ecosystems of Bangladesh are broadly clustered as (a) Terrestrial, (b) Inland Water,
and (c) Coastal and Marine. Blessed with diversity in habitats, the country supports
a rich biodiversity. The Encyclopedia of Flora and Fauna of Bangladesh (2007-2009)
recorded 3,611 taxa of angiosperms from the territory of Bangladesh. It has been
noted that, between June 2009 and June 2013, 64 angiosperm species were recorded
from the country and 8 were described as new to science (Irfanullah, 2013). In
addition to that, Bangladesh National Herbarium (BNH) reported 50 angiosperm
species as new records for the country (Ara and Khan, 2015). Thus, the total number
of angiosperm species identified so far in Bangladesh is 3,733.
Bangladesh harbors rich faunal diversity in its wide range of ecosystems. A
comparison of faunal diversity of Bangladesh with that of the world showed
tremendous diversity in the small geographical area of the country with at least 5,000
arthropod, 475 marine fish, 267 fresh water fish, 479 mollusk, 650 birds, 154
reptiles, and 128 mammal species (DoE, 2015). Moreover, as inventorying goes on,
the list of species might continue to increase. This biodiversity provides human
being with the basic needs of foods, medicines, cloths and shelters as well as livable
environment for existence. However, although once very rich in biodiversity, the
country has been facing various threats to its biodiversity. Given these scenarios,
Bangladesh has to conserve and safeguard its biodiversity for the betterment of its
citizens.
Why Bangladesh has rich biodiversity?
To understand the question, we must understand Latitudinal Diversity Gradient
(LDG).
This is the most well-defined and well-known pattern of biodiversity studies to date.
According to this pattern, the species diversity follows a regular pattern as we move
from the equator to the polar regions. The plant and animal diversity are observed to
be maximum at the equator and it decreases as we move towards the poles. There
might be an exception to a few species, but apart from that, it is a generally observed
trend. We find species richness in plants and animals at the equator. Bangladesh,
located in the tropical regions, shows high species richness. However, the great
Amazon rainforests show maximum biological diversity in terms of the number of
species residing in that region. It is believed that in spite of being the region with the
highest biodiversity, many species in the Amazon are yet to be discovered and
identified. The reason for this increased level of biodiversity in the tropics is thought
by ecologists to be as follows:
• Tropical areas have a more stable climate compared to that of temperate areas.
As a result, the tropics succeed in supporting a higher number of species as
the species do not have to keep adapting to a changing season.
• Temperate regions have suffered a lot of glaciations in the recent past as a
result of which they have had a very unstable environment. Whereas, the
tropics have been comparatively stable. Thus, speciation has been more
favoured in the tropics compared to the temperate lands.
• The tropical regions are comparatively more susceptible to solar energy. As a
result, the plants in this region receive more energy during photosynthesis.
This, in turn, transfers more energy to the successive trophic levels in the food
chain. Thus, more energy supports more diversity.
As the species diversity follows a regular pattern that we move from the equator to
the polar regions. The plant and animal diversity is the maximum at the equator and
decreases as we move towards the poles. Bangladesh is close to equator line that’s
why it has high diversity.
Effect of Tourism on Biodiversity
Tourism has both positive and negative effects on biodiversity, depending on how
it is managed and the specific context of the tourist activities. Here are some of the
key effects of tourism on biodiversity:
Positive Effects
• Conservation Funding: Revenue generated from tourism, particularly
ecotourism, can contribute to funding conservation efforts and protected area
management. Entrance fees, permits, and taxes collected from tourists are
often reinvested into biodiversity conservation projects and habitat
restoration.
• Awareness and Education: Tourism can raise awareness about the
importance of biodiversity conservation among visitors, local communities,
and stakeholders. Interpretive centers, guided tours, and educational
programs in tourist destinations can help promote understanding and
appreciation of the natural environment, leading to increased support for
conservation initiatives.
• Species Protection: In some cases, the presence of tourists and tourism
infrastructure can act as a deterrent to illegal poaching, logging, and habitat
destruction in protected areas. Increased surveillance and monitoring
associated with tourism activities can help protect vulnerable species and
ecosystems from threats.
• Community Engagement: Responsible tourism practices can provide
economic opportunities for local communities living near biodiversity
hotspots. Community-based ecotourism initiatives empower local residents
to participate in tourism activities, share traditional knowledge, and conserve
natural resources while generating income and improving livelihoods.
Negative Effects
• Habitat Degradation: Unsustainable tourism practices, such as unregulated
infrastructure development, off-road driving, and waste generation, can lead
to habitat degradation and fragmentation in ecologically sensitive areas. Loss
of habitat can threaten biodiversity by reducing available resources and
disrupting ecological processes.
• Species Disturbance: High levels of tourist activity, noise, and human
presence can disturb wildlife and disrupt natural behaviors, particularly in
fragile ecosystems. Activities such as wildlife viewing, trekking, and boating
may inadvertently cause stress to sensitive species, leading to altered
movement patterns, breeding disruptions, or habitat abandonment.
• Invasive Species: Tourism can facilitate the introduction and spread of
invasive species through transportation of goods, vehicles, and equipment.
Invasive species can outcompete native flora and fauna, disrupt ecosystem
functioning, and pose a threat to biodiversity conservation efforts.
• Resource Overuse: Overexploitation of natural resources, such as water,
fuel wood, and wildlife, to meet the demands of tourism infrastructure and
services can deplete local ecosystems and compromise their resilience.
Pressure on scarce resources can exacerbate conflicts between tourism
development and conservation objectives.
• Climate Change: Tourism-related activities, including transportation,
accommodation, and recreational pursuits, contribute to greenhouse gas
emissions and climate change. Climate change can have profound impacts
on biodiversity, including altered habitat suitability, shifts in species
distributions, and increased frequency of extreme weather events.
Examples of Negative Impacts
• The mass killing of this bird caused a great famine in China: In 1958,
Mao Zedong's Great Sparrow Campaign aimed to eliminate pests but led to
ecological imbalance and a catastrophic famine. Sparrows were killed to
protect grain, igniting a locust infestation that devastated crops. With limited
food distribution and failed agricultural practices, millions perished.
• Bangladesh experienced the worst dengue outbreak on record in 2023. As of
December 31, 2023, a total of 321179 cases and 1705 deaths had been
reported. Atmospheric changes, high-density population, rapid and
unplanned urbanization, and the maximum number of dengue sub-types lead
to frequent and more intense dengue outbreaks in Bangladesh. The current
changes in the rainfall and hot weather trigger the extended dengue seasons
in Bangladesh and cause re-infection and death.
• The Kedarnath disaster, which occurred in June 2013, was one of the most
devastating natural calamities in recent Indian history. The disaster was
triggered by unprecedented heavy rainfall and cloudbursts in the region,
leading to flash floods and landslides. The fragile Himalayan ecosystem
suffered significant damage due to landslides and erosion, leading to
concerns about long-term ecological impacts.
