Africa's biodiversity in‐between ecology and economy

Abstract

Although numerous definitions have been proposed in recent decades for the term 'Biodiversity' (Deans et al., 2012;Redford & Richter, 1999), there is consensus that it can be defined as the assortment, multiplicity, or variety of life. Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms within a particular ecosystem and the interactions between them (e.g. communities, guilds). It encompasses all levels of biological organisation, from individual species to entire communities. This concept is essential for understanding the complex relationships and dynamics of life on Earth (Contoli & Luiselli, 2016).It includes genetic diversity within animal and plant populations, the diverse species composition that characterises communities, as well as entire ecosystems. Biodiversity conservation seeks to protect the natural diversity of living organisms, maintaining, as far as possible, the original composition and functioning of ecosystems. This effort is vital for sustaining ecosystem balance and providing essential services that support human well-being (Wilson, 1988). According to this perspective, biodiversity is considered a fundamental component of natural capital, attracting attention not only from scientists but also from economic and socio-political sectors.The study of biodiversity is a multidisciplinary endeavour that integrates insights from various scientific fields, such as ecology, genetics, taxonomy, and conservation biology. Its objective is to investigate patterns, processes, and interactions among diverse life forms and the myriad factors that influence their existence. This interdisciplinary approach employs a range of methodologies that include field surveys, molecular techniques, remote sensing, statistical modelling, and other innovative methods (e.g.