Earth: what a unique planet we live on. Here, life exists in a great variety of fascinating and exquisite forms. Every plant and animal found in the many habitats of our planet is part of an interconnected and complex tapestry of life. This intricate relationship among plants, animals and their environments is known as biological diversity - or "biodiversity" for short.

This "living fabric" has evolved over billions of years, yet the balance is so fragile its threads can unravel in an evolutionary blink of an eye. Humans are part of this complex tapestry and have greatly affected the biodiversity on Earth.

Everyday activities - washing a car, brushing one's teeth, going to the grocery store - can affect the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink and the soil we depend on for our food. As the world becomes more developed, it is important that we take time to examine how our personal choices can affect the health of the Earth.

Human activities have contributed to the loss of many species of plants and animals on Earth. Because of the integrated relationship among living things in Nature, the current loss of biodiversity is quickly becoming one of the world's most pressing problems.

It is hard to pinpoint what exactly compels us to hike Mt. Rainier on a hot summer day, to sit quietly on the beach to listen to the surf and admire the setting sun, or to stare in awe at a pod of whales frolicking in the cold waters of the San Juan Islands. But it is certain that we humans are drawn to and are a part of Nature.

With some effort, we can continue to enjoy and preserve a lasting legacy of the Earth's natural wonders for future generations.

Now, come learn how
insects dominate in the
biodiversity arena.