As we continue to lose species at a rapid rate, we must discover which losses will have the most deleterious consequences on ecosystems. At present, we know little, and what we do have is information on short-term, small-scale experimental plots.We need to know more, much more. It is vital to realize, then, that biodiversity does not mean simply the number
and kinds of living organisms present. Biodiversity depends upon the habitats and ecosystems which support them.