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Biodiversity

Definition

Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms found in a given area or on Earth. It encompasses the diversity of species, genes, and ecosystems.

Analogy

Think of biodiversity as a big box filled with different types of candies. The more types of candies you have in the box, the higher the biodiversity. A box with only one type of candy has low biodiversity, while a box with many different types has high biodiversity.

Related terms

Ecosystem: An ecosystem is a community of living organisms in conjunction with their non-living environment. (e.g., a forest or coral reef)

Species: A species is a group of similar organisms that can interbreed to produce fertile offspring.

Genetic Diversity: Genetic diversity refers to the variation in genetic material within and between populations of organisms.

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Practice Questions (1)

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.