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Biodiversity

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is necessary for life to thrive on Earth.

Aldo Leopold, one of the great thinkers of conservation, observed more than half a century ago the importance of protecting species. "To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering," he wrote. Losing species is like throwing away one by one the engine parts of an airplane while flying.

Biodiversity is a major initiative of Conservation International.

Biodiversity conservation provides substantial benefits to meet immediate human needs, such as those for clean, consistent water flows; protection from floods and storms; and a stable climate. 

Curated by mokiethecat

Saving Howlers, Jaguars and More From Pet Trade
December 07, 2022

Mexico's rich biodiversity, home to howler monkeys and jaguars, is severely threatened by illegal wildlife trade. Thousands of animals are poached from their habitats annually, suffering and dying to be sold as exotic pets, often facilitated through social media.

An undercover investigation by the Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit, exposed widespread trafficking. Devastating footage of kidnapped baby howler monkeys, used to entice buyers, can be seen in this video. Learn more about this issue: biodiv.us/3Fe3gBq.

The Center works through science, law, and media to protect all species and their habitats, ensuring a wild world for future generations. For more information, visit our website: biologicaldiversity.org.