Humans and Biodiversity

Humans are part of Nature just like all other species but according to Humans (Homo sapiens), we are the most intelligent and brilliant species on this planet (even though we are not the only one). Hence according to us, we can show dominance over all the species all the time. Charles Darwin said that evolution works on the theory of survival of the fittest, It’s not the strong one or intelligent one that can survive but the ones who are responsive to change is able to survive. The fact is if you see history of geological Time scale from Paleozoic era to Cenozoic era and from Cambrian period to Quaternary period.

Each era or period shows the dominancy of different species if we consider the Mesozoic era it is called as Age of reptiles as the diversification and dominancy of reptiles took place in that period, the Jurassic is one of the well-known periods belonging to this era. The Cenozoic era is known as the Age of Mammals again in this era humans/mammals show dominancy in the quaternary period. As we are dominant in this period it doesn’t mean we always be there on the top. Just like Amphibians and reptiles, mammals may lose their place after a certain period of time. Right now we are facing Corona-like viruses which can easily destroy thousands of individuals in a very short period. In the future might be these
microorganisms like viruses and bacteria came over and show dominancy over all other animal groups including human beings. In the end, we need to realize that each and every species that is Biodiversity of this planet earth has its own role in nature and we have to respect them. As a human, if we are unable to protect them or conserve them at least we should not harm them for our benefit. We are continuously doing many things which are harmful to nature such as pollution and deforestation, According to us it is development but keeps one thing in mind NATURE ALWAYS WINS.

Ms. AMRUTA DAULAT PHARANDE
(The author is an Assistant Professor at Sathaye College, Vile-Parle (E), Mumbai)