Download Biological Diversity - New York State Museum

pheromones that direct specific ant activities and the discovery of many previously
unknown species of ants from around the world. He has also begun to unravel and
describe some of the complex social behaviors of these insects.
Although Wilson’s career continues to involve research on ants, he has also
recently assumed a new role as a leader in the crusade to save the world’s biodiversity.
In his book Biodiversity, he states: “… every scrap of biological diversity is priceless,
to be learned and cherished, and never to be surrendered without a struggle.” In
the pages that follow, Wilson describes why this is true. He explains how all aspects
of human well being are dependent on preserving the remaining biological resources
of our world, and why we can no longer ignore increased extinction rates that are
the result of anthropogenic activities. In the final pages of this book, Wilson offers
recommendations and a multi-disciplinary approach for the successful
conservation and use of biodiversity.
This book has been printed using funds from the New York State Biodiversity
Research Institute (BRI). The BRI was created during a time of increasing awareness
of the urgent need to preserve global and local biodiversity. State Education Law
(Section 235-a (2, 3)) of 1993 mandated the establishment of the BRI within the
New York State Museum to meet these demands. The BRI is funded through the
Environmental Protection Fund and includes a number of collaborators, including
the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the New York
Natural Heritage Program, and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and
Historic Preservation. Activities of the BRI are guided by an executive committee,
which is appointed by the legislature and the governor of New York. The major
objectives of the BRI include the following:
• promote and sponsor cooperative scientific and educational efforts to increase
our knowledge and awareness of biodiversity within New York state;
• advise the governor and officials of governmental agencies on biodiversity issues
within New York state;
• develop a comprehensive and readily accessible database on the status of
biodiversity within New York state; and
• identify areas within the state that lack adequate biodiversity information and
promote research in such areas.
B i o l o g i c a l viii D i v e r s i t y