Crop failure signals biodiversity crisis

摘要

Crop failures have pushed up food prices globally (Nature 472, 169; 2011). Human well-being depends on biodiversity and natural habitats as a source of food. Ironically, the countries harbouring these vital natural assets are also those currently facing the most severe food crises. A report from the investment bank Nomura (go.nature.com/ pwrlc9) introduces a global index for measuring nations' food vulnerability. The most vulnerable depend totally on imported food, and citizens spend more than one-third of their salaries on it.