The UN opened the International Year of Biodiversity in Berlin today. The organisers say that human activity is leading to the increasing loss of an ever greater number of plants and animals.

Eight years ago, agreements were made at a UN conference in Johannesburg on reducing the loss of biodiversity. But even at this early stage, it is clear that this year's targets will not be met.

According to some experts, the number of endangered animal species has increased. The main causes are the expansion of cities, farmland and infrastructure.

Photo: biodiversity ( flickr / rainforest biodiversity group volunteer)