What does conservation biology focus on?

Conservation biology is a multidisciplinary field that emphasizes the preservation, protection, and restoration of biodiversity. It aims to understand the dynamics of ecosystems, the relationships within them, and the various factors threatening biodiversity, such as habitat destruction, climate change, and overexploitation of resources. This field advocates for strategies to sustain the variety of life on Earth, encompassing not only endangered species but also healthy populations and ecosystems that contribute to ecological balance.

The focus on biodiversity ensures that both species and genetic variation within species are conserved, as these are vital for ecosystem resilience, human well-being, and future resource availability. Conservationists implement scientific research and use ecological principles to develop management practices and policy recommendations that promote sustainable interactions between people and nature.

In contrast, other options may address specific components of conservation but do not capture its comprehensive aim. For instance, while the study of endangered species is important, it represents merely a subset of conservation biology's broader scope focused on the entirety of ecosystems and biodiversity. The systematic elimination of invasive species is one aspect of managing ecosystems but does not encompass the full range of conservation efforts. Likewise, discussing the economic benefits of natural resources addresses the utilization of nature rather than the holistic approach aimed at preserving its integrity and diversity.