Tegundafjölbreytileiki

Tegundafjölbreytileiki, commonly translated as species diversity, refers to the number of different species within a given area or ecosystem. It is a fundamental concept in ecology and a key indicator of the health and stability of an environment. A higher species diversity generally suggests a more robust and resilient ecosystem, capable of withstanding environmental changes and disturbances.

Measuring species diversity involves cataloging all the different species present and often considering their relative abundance. This can be done through surveys, sampling, and various scientific methods. The diversity can vary significantly across different geographical locations and habitats, influenced by factors such as climate, resource availability, and historical events.

Biodiversity encompasses not only species diversity but also genetic diversity within species and the diversity of ecosystems themselves. However, species diversity is often the most readily understood and measured component. Protecting and maintaining species diversity is crucial for ecosystem services, which are the benefits that humans derive from natural environments, including pollination, water purification, and climate regulation. Loss of species diversity can have cascading negative effects throughout an ecosystem and can impact human well-being.