The richest sources of biodiversity on Earth are primarily found in what locations?

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Prepare for the UCF INR2002 International Relations exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations. Get ready to excel!

The richest sources of biodiversity on Earth are primarily found in rainforests and oceans due to their unique ecosystems that support a vast array of plant and animal life. Tropical rainforests, such as the Amazon, are renowned for their dense vegetation and complex canopy layers, providing habitats for countless species, many of which are not found anywhere else. The high levels of rainfall and warm temperatures in these regions create ideal conditions for a diverse range of organisms to thrive.

Similarly, oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth's surface and are home to a significant portion of Earth's biodiversity. They contain various habitats, including coral reefs, kelp forests, and deep-sea environments, which support a wide variety of species ranging from the microscopic to the colossal. Coral reefs, in particular, are often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea" due to their incredible diversity of life.

In contrast, deserts and mountains typically have harsher climates that limit the types and number of species that can survive there, while grasslands and savannas are important ecosystems with their own unique diversity but do not compare to the sheer abundance found in rainforests and oceans. Urban areas, although they may have some biodiversity, primarily support species that are highly adaptable to