Biodiversity is the richness and variety of life forms found in different ecosystems across the planet. It includes genetic diversity (variations within species), species diversity (variety of species within ecosystems), and ecosystem diversity (different ecosystems such as forests, deserts, wetlands, etc.). Biodiversity is essential for maintaining ecological balance, providing food, medicine, and raw materials, and supporting vital ecosystem services like pollination, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation. Conserving biodiversity is crucial for sustainable development and protecting natural habitats from human exploitation.