The term 'biodiversity' is regarded not only as the diversity of species, b
ut also as the intraspecific diversity as well, as the diversity of ecosyst
ems. The aim to conserve biodiversity and the need to produce food for the
increasing population of man may cause conflicts which have to be solved. V
arious aspects of the utilization of ecosystems by agriculture, forestry an
d fisheries are described with emphasis on biodiversity. Different reasons
for keeping biodiversity on a high level are discussed and ways of conserva
tion are outlined.