Why is biodiversity so important? The higher the biodiversity in an ecosystem, the more stable it is. The loss of one species changes the way the other species interact. species depend on one another A disease that affects one species will have less effect on an ecosystem if there are many species. Biodiversity also has a value as a source of recreation for people. People seek educational and adventurous ways to spend their leisure time. For example, they may hike through a rain forest to observe unique animals, such as the pangolin shown on the front of this card, in their natural habitats. This kind of tourism brings jobs to people. Earth's biodiversity is a source of many products that people use. It provides people with food, medicines, and clothing. A cure for cancer may exist in the chemistry of an unknown plant in a rain forest.