Conservation biology
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Conservation biology is the study and preservation of habitat for the purpose of conserving biodiversity.
The term "conservation biology" refers to the science and sometimes is used to encompass also the application of this science. In simple terms, conservation biology is scientific study of the phenomena that affect the maintenance, loss, and restoration of biological diversity.
Philosophically, the concern of this branch of biology is generally to help save the diversity of life on Earth through applied conservation research. In the realm of research, biologists seek creative and effective ways to address a wide diversity of ecological problems, ranging from endangered species to regional conservation planning. This translates to developing better conservation tools, analyses, and techniques.
Sometimes the practical aim of the whole field is cast in sweeping terms like: “to stop what has been called the sixth great extinction episode on Earth.” But in practice, the objective is necessarily a small bit of this grandiose vision, a project in a specific place.
Both research and education in conservation biology require a cumulative aspect. The analysis and collation of research consolidates what has been learned, and this informs researchers, while educators can transfer this knowledge to college and university students, to in-the-field professionals. Various journals, societies, and lectures also inform the broader conservation community.
In the applied dimension, the understanding and methods developed in conservation biology are of interest to resource managers and government and private conservation workers.
One theoretical tool useful in conservation biology is the Unified neutral theory of biodiversity.
External links
- Conservation Biology Institute (CBI) (http://www.consbio.org/)
- Society for Conservation Biology (SCB) (http://www.conbio.org/)
- LookSmart - Conservation Biology Academic Programs (http://search.looksmart.com/p/browse/us1/us317836/us317912/us10012545/us279024/us282618/us282624/us280696/us280697/)
- LookSmart - Conservation Biology Organizations (http://search.looksmart.com/p/browse/us1/us317836/us317914/us53774/us518031/us330278/us931308/)