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Diversity means variety. Just as diversity enhances the richness of human communities, diversity among species in plant and animal communities helps to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Exotic species can invade and increase in population, crowding out native species and reducing diversity. This brings us to the question, "How important is biological diversity when considering weed control?" There are multiple views even among experts: Background: Currently the loss of diversity is estimated to be more than 3 species extinctions per hour or more than 72 per day. The main reasons for species extinction are habitat loss and exotic species. In unspoiled ecosystems, native species fill most of the niches and form food webs. The relationship among these organisms maintains the function of the ecosystem. Against Control: There are open niches and increasing species richness (the number of species) increases biological diversity and results in better ecological performance (increased productivity, nutrient retention, etc.). Diversity from exotic species provides the ability to maintain ecosystem functions during environmental changes caused by natural (succession) or human activities. Biological diversity provided by exotic species acts as insurance against loss of ecosystem function during these changing environmental conditions. Non-native immigration is a natural process which brings about co-evolution and the formation of new species. Natural selection and competition promote the best species and extinction is a natural outcome. For Control: Invasive weeds reduce biodiversity by outcompeting other plants. Mammals, reptiles, insects, microbes, and other members of the ecosystem that depend on specific plants diminish when exotic plants remove native vegetation. New and established invasive species reduce biodiversity and cause economic damage through the loss of natural products and scenic beauty. Because humans cause problems and alter ecosystems, they have the responsibility to appropriately manage the earth and preserve natural communities for future generations. Weed control is necessary to prevent the loss of native species. See also the Role of Ecology Back to the ethics page The 4th letter of the password – H |
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