Biodiversity: Principles and Conservation

Biological diversity term was first of all put forward by Norse and Mc Manus (1980). It contains two concepts i.e. genetic diversity and ecological diversity. Biodiversity or Biological Diversity a sum of all the different species of animals, plants, fungi, and microbial organisms living on Earth and the variety of habitats in which they live. Scientists estimate that upwards of 10 million–and some suggest more than 100 million–different species inhabit the Earth. Each species is adapted to its unique niche in the environment, from the peaks of mountains to the depths of deep-sea hydrothermal vents, and from polar ice caps to tropical rain forests. Any biodiversity conservation programme cannot succeed without the awareness and involvement of local people. The theme of the conservation must be in the sentiments of people. It is a crucial thing for success of any conservation programmes. Sustainable development has became key word is every policy of Government. But in present population explosion scenario, it is important to provide alternative means to the ever increasing population, otherwise all policies will be a eyewash only.