Protecting biodiversity and the genetic resources they contain is important because many genes are useful in ______.

Protecting biodiversity and the genetic resources they contain is important because many genes are useful in various fields such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental management.

1. Medicine: Many medicines are derived from genetic resources. For example, the rosy periwinkle plant contains genes that produce compounds used in drugs to treat cancer. By protecting biodiversity, we ensure that these valuable genetic resources are not lost.

2. Agriculture: Genetic diversity is crucial for the development of new and improved crop varieties. It can provide resistance to diseases, pests, and changing climate conditions. For instance, wild relatives of crops often carry beneficial traits that can be bred into commercial varieties.

3. Environmental Management: Biodiversity plays a crucial role in ecosystem functions such as nutrient cycling, climate regulation, and pollination. Protecting genetic resources helps maintain these functions and the services they provide to humans.

Therefore, protecting biodiversity and the genetic resources they contain is important for human health, food security, and environmental sustainability.