However, some rarer species may be important in the recovery processes following ecosystem disturbance. Change in the future is inevitable and likely to be rapid. Today's rare plant and animal species may become tomorrow's keystone species as conditions change. In addition to the above reasons, many Australians wish to conserve the plants and animals of their country because of pride in their natural heritage. It is also important to maintain the full range of genetic diversity within individual species.
Small populations lose genetic diversity over time.
Without genetic variability a species cannot evolve or adapt to changing environments, and it is vulnerable to new conditions such as climatic change or new diseases. Adequate levels of genetic diversity can only be maintained if species are conserved as viable populations in the wild - zoos and botanic gardens can assist this process, not replace it. The rapidly developing techniques of the new science of biotechnology also depend on genetic diversity. Responsibility for endangered species conservation The conservation of endangered species is the responsibility of all levels of government and the wider community. The States, through their constitutional responsibility for land use and management, are the major participants, and States and Territories have passed some legislation relating to wildlife conservation.