The animal kingdom is vast and complex, home to an incredible diversity of organisms. The International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES) estimates that there are approximately 8.7 million species of organisms on Earth, but the scientific community suggests that this number may exceed 1 trillion, including microorganisms that have not yet been discovered.
Among these kingdoms the animals They represent a relatively small part and impress with their diversity. Let's explore which animal group holds the title of most diverse.
Mammals: small part
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Starting with mammals, which includes us, we are not the most diverse group.
Characterized by the presence of mammary glands, fur, and the ability to breastfeed young, there are approximately 6,500 to 7,000 species of mammals worldwide.
Despite our remarkable diversity, the numbers reveal that true diversity lies in other groups.
Pisces: Masters of the Oceans
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In the seas, fish take the lead, with approximately 33,000 known species.
Aquatic vertebrates with gills, scales, and a body structure adapted for swimming, fish form a diverse group spanning freshwater, saltwater, and transitional environments between the two.
Insects: the most diverse animal group
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However, no group matches the diversity found among insects. With about 3 million known species, they represent nearly half of all animal species on Earth.
Among them, beetles stand out, with approximately 400 thousand species, making up a third of all known animal species.
Explain this diversity
The long existence of insects, some 500 million years ago, is the key to their amazing diversity. During this extended period, species split and adapted to different locations and forms of survival.
Furthermore, the short lifespan of most insects allows for a high reproductive rate, leading to genetic mutations and the emergence of new species.
The vital role of insects on Earth
Although many consider Insects As a nuisance, they play vital roles in maintaining biological processes.
With 1.4 billion insects for every human on Earth and a total weight exceeding 70 times that of a human, these tiny creatures contribute significantly to pollination, soil enrichment and the global food chain.
Challenges for humanity
However, the disappearance of entire groups of insects, such as bees, raises concerns. Interruption of these biological processes could undermine the structure that supports life on the planet.
Thanks to their vital role in pollination and maintaining biodiversity, insects are not just a piece of the puzzle, but are actually the true owners of the land. The current challenge is to balance coexistence with these critical organisms to ensure a sustainable future.
