Which term describes the diversity of species in an area?

• A. Biodiversity
• B. Fertilizer
• C. Pesticide
• D. Monocropping

Answer: (A)

Biodiversity is the term for the diversity of life in a given area. It includes the variety within species (genetic diversity), the number of different species (species diversity), and the variety of ecosystems (ecosystem diversity) present. When a landscape has high biodiversity, there are more species interacting in ways that support resilient ecosystems, such as better pollination, natural pest control, nutrient cycling, and overall stability in the face of change. In farming, this diversity helps ecosystems cope with pests, diseases, and weather variations, contributing to sustainable yields.

Fertilizer and pesticide relate to inputs and management practices rather than the variety of living things. Monocropping describes planting a single crop over a large area, which reduces species diversity.