biodiversity
by-oh-dih-VER-sih-tee
/ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/
The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
Includes genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity.
The story behind the word. A relatively modern term, coined in the 1980s as a contraction of 'biological diversity'. It was popularized by biologist E.O. Wilson.
Word relationships
- biological diversity: The full, non-contracted form of the word.
- monoculture: The cultivation of a single crop or species.
Commonly confused with
- ecosystem: Biodiversity is the 'who' (the species), while ecosystem is the 'how' (the interactions).
Word family
- biodiverse (adjective): Rich in biodiversity.
Collocations
- loss of biodiversity
- rich biodiversity
- protect biodiversity
Example sentences
- "The preservation of biodiversity is essential for maintaining a healthy and resilient planet." Conservation science
- "Biodiversity is the totality of all inherited variation in the life forms of Earth." Scientific quote (E.O. Wilson, The Diversity of Life)
Memory hook
Bio (life) + Diversity (variety). Bio-Diversity = Life-Variety.
When not to use
Don't use when just talking about a large number of the same animal; it requires variety.
Fun facts
- Rainforests cover less than 2% of Earth's surface but house more than 50% of the world's plant and animal species.
Also appears in
- Technology → Ecology & Climate Science
- Nature → Ecology & Ecosystems
- Nature → Environmental Conservation
- Nature → Biodiversity & Species Conservation
- Environmental Policy & Sustainability Economics → Sustainable Agriculture & Farming
- Environmental Policy & Sustainability Economics → Marine Ecology
- Environmental Policy & Sustainability Economics → Eco-Tourism & Travel
- Food Science & Culinary Craft → Organic Farming Practices
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