Final answer:
Natural ecosystems with higher biodiversity tend to be more stable than artificial ecosystems. Biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience and productivity, which is essential for long-term stability. The psychological and moral value of biodiversity also supports its importance for human well-being and conservation efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is not accurate to assert that natural ecosystems with lower biodiversity are inherently more stable than artificial ecosystems. A wealth of research, including studies by Tilman in 1996 and others, indicates that biodiversity often enhances ecosystem productivity and stability, making ecosystems more resilient to disturbances such as drought. Ecosystems with a rich variety of species tend to exhibit less variation in productivity and are better able to withstand environmental stresses compared to those with fewer species. This is supported by both field experiments and theoretical models.
The construction of artificial ecosystems by humans, including cities and agricultural systems, does not typically account for sustainable principles that nature inherently balances through natural selection. Such systems have not proven to be as resilient or sustainable as natural ecosystems over time. Conservation biology increasingly recognizes the need to harmonize human activities with the natural world to ensure the continuity and stability of ecosystems.
Additionally, there is evidence suggesting that biodiversity has psychological benefits for humans, as proposed by E. O. Wilson, indicating that humans have evolved to thrive in a biodiverse world. The psychological well-being and the moral value of preserving biodiversity also play a role in the discussions around ecosystem management and the long-term viability of both natural and artificial systems.