5.2.2.1.2. Productive Value

Some of the organisms are commercially usable where the product is marketed and sold. The animal products like tusks of elephants; musk from deer; silk from silkworm; wool from sheep or goats; fur of many animals etc all of which are traded in the market.

This section discusses how various organisms are not just part of the ecosystem, but also provide valuable products that can be harvested and sold. For example, the silk produced by silkworms is extensively used in making clothing. Similarly, products like tusks and musk are obtained from animals, which are then traded as luxury items. These products play a crucial role in human economies by creating jobs and contributing to economic growth.

Consider the case of honeybees. Not only do they pollinate flowers, enhancing biodiversity, but they also produce honey, which is a popular food item. Many beekeepers rely on honey production for their livelihood, demonstrating how organisms can provide commercial value.

Eg: Calabar bean was traditionally used as a poison in West Africa. Daisy plants were first used as a lice remedy in the Middle East and this led to the discovery of Pyrethrum. Mosquito coils made from Pyrethrum are sold in the market.

This chunk highlights specific examples of how certain plants have practical uses that extend beyond their natural roles. The Calabar bean was known for its toxic properties, historically used in hunting and other purposes in West Africa. Similarly, the daisy plant's extract led to the discovery of Pyrethrum, a natural pesticide found in many mosquito coils today. These examples illustrate the diverse applications of biological resources, showcasing how they can contribute to human needs, including health and security against pests.

Think of how we use common herbs in cooking or medicine. For example, basil is not only used in many dishes for flavor but also has antibacterial properties. Just like the daisy led to a practical solution for lice, many everyday plants contribute to our lives in significant ways, whether through culinary use or health benefits.

Drugs & medicines: About 75% of the world’s population depends upon plants or plant extracts for medicines. The drug Penicillin used as an antibiotic is derived from a fungus called Penicillium. Likewise, Tetracycline from bacteria which is used to cure malaria is obtained from the bark of cinchona tree.

This part emphasizes the importance of biodiversity in medicine. A large portion of the global population relies on natural substances for health and treatment. For instance, Penicillin, a major antibiotic, was discovered from a mold, emphasizing how organisms contribute to healthcare. Similarly, the cinchona tree has provided essential compounds used to treat malaria. This illustrates that preservation of biodiversity is critical not only for ecological balance but also for human health.

Imagine a virtual treasure hunt where the treasure is actually plants and fungi. Each organism can potentially lead to a new medicine that saves lives. Just as we uncover hidden gems, scientists explore different organisms to find new drugs, demonstrating the invaluable wealth found in nature.

Fuel: The fossil fuels like coal, petroleum products and natural gas are the products of biodiversity.

This section indicates the role of biodiversity in the formation of fossil fuels, which are derived from ancient organic matter, including plants and animals. Over millions of years, these organisms have transformed into coal, oil, and natural gas, which are vital energy sources today. Understanding this connection highlights the historical significance of biodiversity in our current energy landscape.

Think of burying treasure and how over time, the earth transforms it. Fossil fuels are like buried treasures from ancient ecosystems that provide us energy today. When we burn coal or oil for energy, we are literally using the ancient remains of biodiversity from millions of years ago.

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