What is the primary benefit of preserving entire ecosystems over focusing only on individual species?

Preserving entire ecosystems provides a broader range of benefits by maintaining the complex interrelationships among the species within that environment. By focusing on ecosystems rather than individual species, conservation efforts can protect essential habitats and the ecological processes that sustain various organisms. This holistic approach may indeed help in saving a larger population of species, as it keeps the whole system intact. An ecosystem supports not just one or two species, but a multitude of organisms that rely on each other for food, shelter, and pollination, among other interactions.

Additionally, ecosystems provide critical services, such as nutrient cycling, water purification, and climate regulation, which benefit all species living in that system. By safeguarding these processes, the health and resilience of the entire ecosystem are maintained, thus enhancing the chances of survival for many species collectively. This interconnectedness demonstrates why preserving ecosystems is essential for long-term biodiversity conservation.