The difference between two or more species of plants or animals is called species diversity. It is also called interspecific diversity. The main components of species diversity are two. (species richness) and species evenness. The role that species play in the ecosystem is called ecological niche. Areas where species diversity is high are considered biodiversity hotspots. Species diversity is higher in regions where nutrients and climate are favorable. For example, tropical regions.
Measurement of species diversity
Animal species diversity is measured by species diversity index. The most commonly used index to measure species diversity is Simpson’s Diversity Index. It is expressed by D = ∑(n/N)2. n is the number of a particular animal species, N is the sum of all animal species and D is the value of animal diversity. The value of D ranges from 0-1. The higher the value of D at a site, the greater the animal diversity. In 1990, scientist Norman Myer (1990) called the world’s biodiversity hot spot. Dr. Siddiq Publications
Importance of species diversity
(i) Species diversity drives energy capture and storage, biomass production and decomposition, and water and nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
(ii) Species diversity increases the productivity of ecosystems.
(iii) Species diversity prevents soil erosion and pest control.
(iv) Species diversity controls the amount of gaseous substances in the atmosphere.