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Biodiversity

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is necessary for life to thrive on Earth.

Aldo Leopold, one of the great thinkers of conservation, observed more than half a century ago the importance of protecting species. "To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering," he wrote. Losing species is like throwing away one by one the engine parts of an airplane while flying.

Biodiversity is a major initiative of Conservation International.

Biodiversity conservation provides substantial benefits to meet immediate human needs, such as those for clean, consistent water flows; protection from floods and storms; and a stable climate. 

Curated by mokiethecat

Baby Leafcutter Bee Emerges from Their Cozy Bee-rito
April 27, 2023

Leafcutter bees are solitary, gentle pollinators that construct leaf-based egg chambers, provisioning them with nectar and pollen. A female may create up to 20 such cells, like the one seen in this footage of a bee emerging in the UK. Many species exist globally, including 63 in Florida. (Thanks to Emily Doorish: [Twitter](https://twitter.com/EDoorish), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/EmiliagoXD)).

Bees are also remarkably complex. Expert Stephen Buchmann notes they feel emotions, process long-term memories during sleep, and may even dream, raising ethical questions about their treatment. Learn more about bee intelligence: [here](https://biodiv.us/3n2sePr).

The Center for Biological Diversity, a 501c3 nonprofit, works to secure a future for all species by protecting the lands, waters, and climate they need. Discover more: [biologicaldiversity.org](https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/).