Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of life on Earth, encompassing the differences in genetics, species, and ecosystems. It is measured at multiple levels, including:

1.Genetic variability: Differences in genetic makeup within and between populations of species.

2.Species diversity: The variety of species within a region.

3.Ecosystem diversity: The range of different ecosystems in a particular area.

Distribution of Biodiversity

Biodiversity is unevenly distributed across the planet. Generally, tropical regions, known for their warm climates and high primary productivity, exhibit greater biodiversity. For instance, tropical forest ecosystems cover less than 10% of the Earth's surface but harbour approximately 90% of the world's species. Marine biodiversity is highest in regions like the Western Pacific, where the sea surface temperature is warmest, and in the mid-latitude bands of oceans. Biodiversity also varies with latitude, with species diversity often increasing as one moves from the poles towards the equator. Over time, biodiversity has increased, but human activities such as deforestation pose significant threats to this trend.

Global Biodiversity

Scientists estimate there are about 8.7 million species of plants, animals, and microbes on Earth, though only about 1.75 million species have been scientifically described.