The term wildlife is often used to refer only to the wide variety of animal species. However, this also includes the millions of species of plants and trees that still live in their natural state. Wildlife refers indiscriminately to species of fauna and flora that live without any alteration or intervention by man. Different species of wildlife make up what keeps the planet functioning, so their importance must be highlighted and here are eight reasons to understand the great importance of wildlife.
The basis of balance
Nature is wise and keeps all living beings connected, there is not a single species whose disappearance does not affect the ecosystem. Animals and vegetation are all part of the food chain, so their population health is the basis of the balance that keeps the planet functioning.
Diversity equals ecosystem health
Here another widely used term comes into play: . This refers to the large number of species that make up an ecosystem. Well, the greater the natural environments, the greater their health. More variety is synonymous with greater resistance.
A huge source of nutrients
Everything we consume has a natural origin, although today most of what is consumed is industrialized and is no longer part of wildlife, in the past it was. Therefore, protecting wildlife is synonymous with maintaining our own source of and strengthening food security around the world.
Medicine comes from wildlife
Since ancient times, humans have turned to nature to obtain its great healing wisdom. Although today medicine, like agriculture, is already industrialized, researchers continue to search nature for agents that will help them find a cure for those that afflict humanity.
A source of livelihood
In the world there are still populations that depend entirely on wildlife, such as indigenous communities from which they have lived sustainably for centuries. For them, the great richness of species in its purest state is not only vital as resources, but is part of their own identity as a species.
Less illnesses
The preservation of wildlife and its ecosystems is essential for human health. Research shows that in various protected natural areas, there are fewer cases of diseases such as malaria and Lyme disease. Intact ecosystems prevent more diseases from being exposed to humans and therefore maintaining wildlife reduces the possibility of zoonoses.
Cultural identity
Humanity at some point intermingled with wildlife, therefore it has been part of its own identity since millennia. Many philosophies are preserved today that see in wildlife a worldview that generates the idea of identity. For Hindus, for example, cows are sacred symbols. Preserving wildlife is also important on a cultural level.
Mental health
There are studies that suggest that staying in touch with nature helps mental health. People who live near natural environments tend to develop greater emotional strength that helps them find mental balance. Walking along a wooded trail makes a huge difference than living relegated to large man-made cities.