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6. INDIA AS A MEGA DIVERSITY NATION

India is a biodiversity hotspot and is considered a 'mega-diversity nation' due to its rich flora and fauna, hosting over 75,000 species of animals and 45,000 species of plants. Key biogeographical zones contribute to the endemic species richness, particularly in the Western Ghats and Eastern Himalayas. However, biodiversity faces significant threats from habitat destruction, poaching, invasive species, and pollution, prompting urgent conservation efforts both in-situ and ex-situ.

Sections

INDIA AS A MEGA DIVERSITY NATION

India is recognized as one of the world’s 'megadiversity' nations, home to a significant variety of flora and fauna across different biogeographic zones.

6.2.3 Section Overview

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6.2.3.1 Biogeographic regions of India

India is recognized as a mega-diversity nation, encompassing 10 distinct biogeographic regions that support a rich variety of flora and fauna.

HOT SPOTS OF BIODIVERSITY

This section discusses biodiversity hot spots in India, emphasizing the significance of endemic species and the areas that exhibit high species richness.

6.2.4 Section Overview

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6.2.4.a Eastern Himalayas

The Eastern Himalayas are a critical hotspot of biodiversity, characterized by high endemism and significant ecological diversity.

6.2.4.b Western Ghats

The Western Ghats region boasts significant biodiversity and endemism, housing a vast array of unique species.

THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY

This section discusses the various threats to biodiversity, emphasizing accelerated extinction rates due to human activities.

6.2.5 Section Overview

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6.2.5.1 Habitat destruction

Habitat destruction is a critical threat to biodiversity, primarily caused by human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and urbanization.

6.2.5.2 Poaching

This section discusses poaching as a significant threat to biodiversity, highlighting illegal wildlife trade and its consequences.

6.2.5.3 Man-Wildlife Conflicts

The section discusses the challenges and implications of man-wildlife conflicts in India, highlighting the reasons behind such conflicts and its impact on both species.

6.2.5.3.1 Invasive Non-Native Species

Invasive non-native species can rapidly destabilize ecosystems by altering habitats and food webs.

6.2.5.3.2 Pollution/Litter

Pollution, especially litter, significantly impacts ecosystems and contributes to the decline of numerous animal and plant species worldwide.

6.2.5.3.3 Land Use Change/Increased Infrastructure Development

Land use change and increased infrastructure development significantly impact biodiversity, leading to habitat destruction and species loss.

6.2.5.3.4 Intensive Farming Practices

Intensive farming practices lead to reduced biodiversity due to monoculture and excessive use of chemicals.

ENDANGERED AND ENDEMIC SPECIES

This section explores the definitions and classifications of endangered and endemic species in India, highlighting their significance to biodiversity conservation.

6.2.6 Section Overview

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6.2.6.1 Endangered species

This section outlines endangered species in India, their classification, and the significance of endemic species.

6.2.6.2 Endemic species of India

India is home to a significant number of endemic species, particularly in biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats and Eastern Himalayas, contributing to its unique ecological spectrum.

CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY

The section discusses the strategies and importance of conserving biodiversity in India through various initiatives and projects.

6.2.7 Section Overview

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6.2.7.1 In-situ conservation

In-situ conservation involves the protection of species in their natural habitats, focusing on maintaining biodiversity within ecosystems.

6.2.7.2 Ex-situ conservation

Ex-situ conservation refers to the preservation of biodiversity outside of its natural habitat, essential for protecting endangered species.

Learning Objectives

  • India is classified as one of the world's 'megadiversity nations' due to its vast array of unique species.

  • Significant threats to biodiversity include habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, and poaching.

  • Conservation strategies in India emphasize both in-situ and ex-situ methods to protect endangered species.

Key Concepts

Biodiversity Hotspots

Areas that exhibit significant levels of species richness and endemism, crucial for conservation efforts.

In-situ Conservation

The preservation of species in their natural habitats, such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

Ex-situ Conservation

The conservation of species outside their natural habitats, often in controlled environments like zoos and seed banks.

Practice Exercises

Total Questions

2

Estimated Time

4 min

Passing Score

70%

Instructions

  • Read each question carefully
  • You can use hints if you need help
  • Complete all questions before submitting
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