mangfold

Mangfold is a term used in Norwegian and Danish to denote diversity, particularly in ecological and environmental contexts. In English, it is commonly translated as biodiversity, though mangfold can also refer to broader forms of variety, including cultural or genetic diversity within human societies. In ecology, mangfold comprises three interrelated levels: genetic diversity within species, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. Genetic diversity underpins a population’s ability to adapt to changing conditions; species diversity refers to the number and distribution of species in a landscape; ecosystem diversity encompasses the variety of habitats, ecological processes, and interactions among them.

The maintenance of mangfold is widely regarded as crucial for the resilience and functioning of natural systems, and for the ecosystem services on which people depend—such as food, clean water, pollination, climate regulation, and opportunities for recreation and inspiration. Biodiversity supports medicine and agricultural resilience by providing genetic resources for crops and livestock.

Threats to mangfold include habitat loss, climate change, pollution, overexploitation, and invasive species. Conservation and sustainable management aim to protect and restore mangfold through protected areas, habitat restoration, sustainable agriculture and fisheries, and measures to safeguard genetic resources. International frameworks such as the Convention on Biological Diversity guide national policies and monitoring programs, alongside national biodiversity strategies.

In everyday language, mangfold can also describe the diversity of cultures, languages, and practices within a society, underscoring the social dimension of overall diversity. Effective protection of mangfold requires data, inclusive governance, and long-term commitment.