Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
3.
Importance of Protecting Endangered Species
Hundreds of animals (including fish, birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibi-
ans, insects, and aquatic invertebrates) and thousands of plants have been
named as endangered or threatened species under the provisions of the Endan-
gered Species Act. Some of these animals and plants are ones that everyone
knows about, such as the bald eagle. Others are tiny, little-known creatures
that may rarely be seen by anyone except trained naturalists.
Endangered Species Restriction
Under the Endangered Species Act, it is a Federal offense
to use any pesticide in a manner that results in the death
of a member of an endangered species. Prior to making
applications, the user must determine that endangered spe-
cies are not located immediately adjacent to the site to be
treated. If the users are in doubt whether or not endangered
species may be affected, they should contact the regional
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office (Endangered Spe-
cialist) or personnel of the State Fish and Game Office.
Regardless of the size or apparent significance of these endangered species,
it is important that each is allowed to survive—mankind's well-being depends
on maintaining
biological diversity.
Biological diversity is the variety and
differences among living things, and the complex ways they interact. Diver-
sity is necessary for several reasons.
a.
Agriculture
Nearly all of today's crops started as wild species. Genes from wild spe-
cies often are used to create new hybrids that have resistance to plant diseases
and insects, better climatic tolerance, and higher yields. Having different va-
rieties available is necessary insurance against devastating crop failures caused
by climate extremes or major pest outbreaks.
b.
Medicine
Many of today's most important medicines come from obscure plant and
animal species. A mold is the source of penicillin, the miracle drug; an herb
is the source of quinine, a cure for malaria. Scientists are testing countless
plant and animal species around the world for sources of cures for major dis-
eases.
