Biological diversity (biodiversity) is the variability of animals, plants and micro-organisms at the genetic, species and ecosystem levels. All levels of biodiversity are fundamental for the normal functioning of ecological processes. For example, a broad gene pool in a population allows species to adapt to changing conditions and environmental stresses (such as extremes of temperature, drought, diseases and competition). At the species level: the diversity of organisms contribute to important ecosystem functions such as nutrient cycling, pest and disease regulation, and pollination. At the ecosystem level biological diversity is important in reducing the vulnerability of an ecosystem and enhancing the adaptability of ecosystems to changes in the environment.

There is growing concern over the current loss of biodiversity which has already been classified as the first human induced mass-extinction. It is unclear what consequences a rapid decline in biodiversity may have on essential biosystem functions. The main concerns are in safeguarding human well being and future production. Of equal importance is the need to preserve individual species and their habitats. These concerns have led to the signing of international agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and Agenda 21. Parties to these conventions are now committed to identify and monitor biodiversity, for both conservation and sustainable use. This has resulted in a great intensification in research and data gathering but there is still little understanding on the functioning of ecological systems and the interaction of living organisms with each other and the rest of the environment.


Acquiring biodiversity data

Even though there is increasing international interest in biodiversity there is very little and fragmented knowledge on the subject. Only a small fraction of the existing small-sized organisms, such as bacteria, mirco-arthropods and insects, have been discovered and described. Even less is known on the functions that these organisms might have in habitats and global cycles. Data on biodiversity is needed to be able to assess the rate of extinction and evaluate the effects of change on ecosystems. The fist step is therefore the identification and naming of microorganisms, plants, and animals. In addition to this identification process it is important to determine: the key indicator species for a habitat; the biological resources which are threatened; and the likely effects of climate change on ecosystem function.

As can be seen measuring biodiversity is a complex task, and the selection of indicators is difficult. A number of institutions have developed a large number of indicators for biodiversity but there is still no scientific or political consensus on which indicators are the most relevant and which measurement methods should be used. Standardization of measurement methods is essential for the compatibility and analysis of biodiversity data from different sources but there is still a reluctance of ecologists to adopt an agreed standard of methods.

Biodiversity module in TEMS

The TEMS biodiversity module has been developed to facilitate access to biodiversity relevant data. The module contains seven core variable relevant to biodiversity and provides links to data holders and major institutions involved in biodiversity. The module also includes a literature and glossary section.