biodiversity

[ bahy-oh-di-vur-si-tee, ‑dahy‑ ]

noun

1. biological diversity among and within plant and animal species in an environment:

   Coral reefs are not just havens for marine biodiversity, they also underpin the economies of many coastal communities.

   Spiraling extinctions will continue diminishing biodiversity for hundreds of years.

biodiversity

/ ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪtɪ /

noun

1. the existence of a wide variety of plant and animal species in their natural environments, which is the aim of conservationists concerned about the indiscriminate destruction of rainforests and other habitats

biodiversity

/ bī′ō-dĭ-vûr′sĭ-tē /

1. The number, variety, and genetic variation of different organisms found within a specified geographic region.

biodiversity

1. A term that describes the number of different species that live within a particular ecosystem .

Notes

The preservation of biodiversity is considered by environmentalists to be a major goal of environmental policy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of biodiversity¹

An Americanism first recorded in 1985–90; bio(logical) ( def ) + diversity ( def )

Example Sentences

“I’m concerned and anxious about what the Trump administration could mean for water, and especially biodiversity protection in aquatic habitats.”

From Los Angeles Times

Dr Lizzy Pinkerton from the Belfast Hills Partnership said cattle were "basically the conservation tool" on the hills, where they help manage vegetation to support a healthy biodiversity.

From BBC

The cattle help manage vegetation to support a healthy biodiversity.

From BBC

While picking up the poo probably isn't anyone's favourite job, Mr McCammond said it was a must, to keep farming in the area viable and to protect biodiversity.

From BBC

"The judgment brings into focus a flawed understanding of the interplay between climate change, biodiversity and development issues," ecologist Debadityo Sinha wrote in a column.

From BBC