What is one of the benefits of maintaining biodiversity in ecosystems?

Maintaining biodiversity in ecosystems is crucial for enhancing their stability and resilience. A diverse array of species contributes to the complex interconnections within an ecosystem, allowing it to adapt to environmental changes and disturbances more effectively. For example, diverse plant species can support various herbivores, which in turn support a range of predators, creating a balanced food web. This interconnectedness helps ecosystems recover from stresses such as climate change, disease outbreaks, or invasive species.

Biodiverse ecosystems are typically more productive and can provide essential services, such as clean air and water, pollination of crops, and regulation of the climate. They are better equipped to withstand shocks. In contrast, ecosystems with low biodiversity may struggle to recover from disturbances, leading to declines in species and ecosystem services.

As for the other options, increased pollution levels, greater reliance on chemical inputs, and reduction in natural habitats all indicate a degradation of ecosystem health rather than a benefit, further emphasizing the importance of maintaining biodiversity.