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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

Wild & Weird: How Leopard Slugs Mate
August 26, 2020
The mating ritual of leopard slugs is beautifully bizarre. Each individual has both male and female sex organs — and although they can fertilize themselves, they seem to prefer coupling. Under the cover of night, they climb up a tree or rock or fence post and then lower themselves on a mucus tether, entwining their bodies. Why hang upside-down? Because gravity helps the slugs lower their oversized penises, which emerge through an opening on the right side of their heads. Coitus complete, both snails head back up the mucous tether, with the one bringing up the rear eating it. Learn more at the BBC: https://biodiv.us/3huTRs2 Thanks to www.bernoid.com for the footage.