Surprising Biodiversity: Suburban Backyard Reveals Over 1,000 Species
Three researchers conducted a comprehensive biodiversity census of their suburban backyard in Brisbane, Australia, during the COVID-19 lockdowns and discovered over 1,150 unique species of animals, plants, and fungi, far surpassing initial predictions. The survey revealed a rich diversity of creatures, including moths, butterflies, spiders, reptiles, and birds. The researchers also identified three species not previously recorded in Australia's biodiversity database. The study highlights the potential for urban areas to support significant biodiversity and emphasizes the importance of maintaining low-maintenance gardens and eliminating pesticides to enhance ecological diversity in residential areas.