biological integrity

Biological integrity refers to the ability of an ecosystem to support and maintain a balanced community of organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, in their natural habitat. It reflects the health and functionality of ecosystems, indicating that they can sustain their biodiversity and ecological processes over time. High biological integrity means minimal human impact, allowing natural interactions to occur, while low biological integrity suggests pollution, habitat loss, or invasive species have disrupted these systems. Ensuring biological integrity is crucial for preserving the planet's biodiversity and ecosystem services, which humans rely on for clean air, water, and food.