Biosphere: Ecosystems and Biodiversity Loss

Biosphere: Ecosystems and Biodiversity Loss (Our Fragile Planet) by Dana Desonie
Chelsea House Publications | 2007-12-30 | ISBN: 0816062196 | 232 pages | PDF | 12 MB


Earth is the only planet known to harbor life; it is the only planet that has a biosphere. Not only is Earth inhabited, it is inhabited on a grand scale, with an unimaginable diversity of life forms. There is hardly a location or set of conditions that does not have an organism that has evolved to live in it. Viruses invade the cells of other organisms. The fungi that cause athlete’s foot (Trichophyton) thrive in the damp spots between a person’s toes. Epiphytes grow atop other plants. Tuna race across the oceans in search of their prey. Giraffes munch leaves no other animals can reach. Desert beetles collect dew on their bodies as their only source of water. Bats snap insects from the air. Humans use intelligence to gather food, avoid predators, and create comfortable living and working environments.

Organisms live together in varied and unique ecosystems. Coral reef ecosystems are supported by the structure created by small coral animals that build their homes on top of one another; such as reef ecosystems are inhabited by an incredible assortment of fish and invertebrates. The scrubby plants of the tundra support a diverse array of birds and large mammals, many of which migrate out of the area for the frigid winters. Desert animals survive long droughts by utilizing the water found in seeds, fruits, or bodies of well-adapted desert plants. The most amazing biodiversity is found in the tropical rain forests, where temperatures are moderate, water is often abundant, and food is plentiful. Every sort of creature—including creeping vines, flying birds, swinging monkeys, and bacteria—all make their homes in and on the varied trees of the rain forest. The Earth’s natural biological systems perform essential services for the planet. Plants convert the Sun’s energy to food energy that can be used by other organisms and provide homes in which other organisms can live. Wetlands ecosystems filter water, provide flood control, and serve as nurseries for fish and other animals. Tropical rain forests absorb carbon dioxide and thus keep global temperatures from rising. Humans use the Earth’s biodiversity for food, clothing, shelter, medicines, and fuel.

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