Final answer:
A major public park within an urban area provides recreational and aesthetic benefits, as well as serving as a habitat for endangered species by maintaining biodiversity and offering a connection within ecological networks. Urban parks are important in mitigating habitat loss and supporting biodiversity in densely populated areas. Additionally, these parks confer psychological and moral value, supporting human well-being and ethical responsibilities towards environmental conservation.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major public park located in an urban area serves not only as a recreational and scenic value to the people but also as a crucial habitat for endangered species. The presence of such a park within the city limits provides a much-needed refuge for biodiversity in an environment that is often dominated by concrete and steel. According to research such as the studies by Koh and Sodhi, urban parks, especially those adjoining forests, can exhibit high levels of biodiversity. These parks act as extended habitats for various species, including native butterfly species that thrive on the ornamental plants found in urban parks. Furthermore, the introduction of carefully selected plant species can significantly enhance the conservation value of these urban green spaces.
From an ecological perspective, urban areas are often considered extreme cases of human-modified land uses that can replace natural habitats and cause long-term impacts on native species. However, urban parks can mitigate these effects by maintaining fragments of biodiversity and serving as vital connections within ecological networks. The psychological and moral value of these parks cannot be understated either. As Harvard entomologist E. O. Wilson points out, humans benefit psychologically from living in a biodiverse world, suggesting that there are regenerative benefits from natural landscapes. Additionally, there is a strong moral argument for protecting biodiversity, emphasizing the notion that humans have an obligation to inflict minimal harm on other species.