ABSTRACT

This chapter explains the number of species preserved. Biodiversity is naturally in a mild state of flux, with some species becoming extinct and new species emerging. The richest biology on Earth, and the largest number of species living nowhere else, is found in the “biodiversity hotspots” marked in red. Biodiversity can be quantified in terms of genetic variation, types of ecosystems, or the number of families or species. Cost-benefit analysis is central to the determination of appropriate levels of biodiversity. Policies that affect biodiversity are available at every expense level, and decision makers must decide which efforts are worthwhile. Some forms of biodiversity are traded in the marketplace; many others have associated market products. Exotic orchids, birds, fish, and reptiles, among many plants and animals, are bought and sold like televisions. The market prices of health products, food, and clothing attributable to biodiversity indicate the minimum valuation current users place on the sources of those products and services.