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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

"King of Sting," Dr. Justin Schmidt, hands child a scorpion
March 02, 2023

Dr. Justin O. Schmidt, a renowned entomologist and ally of the Center for Biological Diversity, famously endured approximately 1,000 insect stings to create his unique Pain Index. This index comically rated and described the intensity of stings, from the "light, ephemeral" sweat bee to the "pure, intense" bullet ant. Dr. Schmidt passed away on February 18, 2023, at 75.

The Center for Biological Diversity is a Tucson-based 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to protecting all species and their habitats. We believe human welfare is deeply linked to nature's diversity, working through science, law, and creative media to secure a wild future for generations to come.

Learn more about our mission at biologicaldiversity.org or contact us with questions at center@biologicaldiversity.org.