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The word 'biodiversity' is short for 'biological diversity' and was first put together by an American scientist called Walter G Rosen for the "National Forum on BioDiversity" in September 1986.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of all living things on our planet and the patterns they form. It includes the differences between species, the difference within species, and the range of habitats in which they live.
The biodiversity we see today is the fruit of millions of years of evolution. It has been shaped by natural processes and, increasingly, by the influence of humans. So far, about 1.75 million species have been identified. Scientists believe there are actually about 13 million species.
Stop and take a good look around you and your school. What are the living things that make up your environment?
All these things are part of our biodiversity. It is our natural heritage and is the result of millions of years of evolution.
With thanks to Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Biodiversity Forum for their contribution to the biodiversity content of this website.
