Final answer:
We use plants and animals to create synthetic products, mainly medications derived from plant compounds and animal toxins, and antibiotics from microbes. Biodiversity conservation is crucial for sustaining these natural resources and potential new discoveries.
Step-by-step explanation:
Humans utilize plants and animals to create a variety of synthetic products. For instance, many medications are developed from compounds originally found in nature. Plants produce secondary metabolites like alkaloids, which serve as deterrents to predators but have been harnessed by humans as drugs. Medicines such as aspirin, codeine, digoxin, atropine, and vincristine are notable examples of plant-derived pharmaceuticals. Beyond plants, animal venoms and toxins have also been a focus of research for their pharmaceutical potential, leading to the development of treatments for conditions like hypertension and chronic pain.
Additionally, microbial sources such as bacteria and fungi are exploited for antibiotics, arguably one of the most significant advancements in public health. The diversity of life contributes to the development of vital products, including enzymes for industrial processes, biogas for energy, and biotechnological applications in environmental remediation. Conservation of biodiversity is therefore critical, both for maintaining our supply of natural resources and for the potential discovery of new beneficial compounds.