All questions of Biodiversity and its Conservation for NEET Exam

Clarias Gariepinus

7 million !!!

Character of a stable community

A stable community refers to a balanced and functioning ecosystem where various species interact with each other and their environment. The character of a stable community can be determined by several factors, including its productivity, resilience to disturbances, and ability to resist invasions by alien species.

1. Year-to-year productivity
A stable community should not show too much variation in its year-to-year productivity. This means that the overall productivity of the community remains relatively constant over time. Fluctuations in productivity can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem and affect the populations of different species. Therefore, a stable community strives to maintain a consistent level of productivity to support the organisms living within it.

2. Resistance to natural or man-made disturbances
Another important characteristic of a stable community is its ability to withstand occasional natural or man-made disturbances. Natural disturbances such as hurricanes, wildfires, or droughts can temporarily disrupt the community's balance. Similarly, human activities like deforestation, pollution, or habitat destruction can also have negative impacts on the ecosystem. A stable community is resilient and can recover from such disturbances, returning to its original state over time.

3. Resistance to invasions by alien species
Invasions by alien species, also known as invasive species, can pose a significant threat to the stability of a community. These species are typically introduced from outside the ecosystem and can outcompete native species for resources, disrupt ecological interactions, and alter the overall structure and function of the community. A stable community has mechanisms in place to resist invasion by alien species, either through competitive exclusion or by maintaining a diverse and robust native species population that can resist the establishment of invaders.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the character of a stable community encompasses several key features. It should exhibit minimal year-to-year variations in productivity, be resilient to natural or man-made disturbances, and have the ability to resist invasions by alien species. These traits ensure the long-term sustainability and functioning of the ecosystem, allowing the various species within the community to thrive.

Understanding Invasive Species
Invasive species are organisms that are introduced to a new environment where they are not native. These species can disrupt the local ecosystem, leading to several ecological issues. Here’s a detailed look at invasive species:
Definition of Invasive Species
- An invasive species is an exotic (non-native) species that spreads rapidly in its new habitat.
- These species often lack natural predators or controls in their new environment, allowing them to thrive.
Impact on Native Species
- Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources such as food, water, and space.
- They may introduce diseases that native species are not equipped to handle.
- The result can be the decline or extinction of native species, disrupting the ecological balance.
Characteristics of Invasive Species
- Rapid reproduction: They often reproduce quickly, leading to large populations.
- Adaptability: These species can thrive in various environmental conditions.
- Aggressive growth: They may grow faster than native plants, overshadowing them and limiting their sunlight access.
Examples of Invasive Species
- Zebra mussels in North America: They clog waterways and disrupt local aquatic ecosystems.
- Kudzu in the southeastern United States: This plant grows aggressively, choking out native flora.
- Burmese python in Florida: This predator threatens local wildlife populations.
Conclusion
Recognizing and managing invasive species is crucial for preserving biodiversity and maintaining the health of ecosystems. Conservation efforts aim to control or eradicate these species to protect native wildlife and habitats.

Organisms Protected by the Bishnoi Community of Rajasthan

The Bishnoi community of Rajasthan is known for its deep-rooted traditions and religious beliefs that emphasize environmental conservation and protection of wildlife. They have been actively involved in safeguarding various organisms and habitats from harm. Two key organisms that are protected by the Bishnoi community are the Prosopis cineraria tree and the Black buck.

1. Prosopis cineraria:
The Prosopis cineraria, commonly known as the Khejri tree, is a native species to the arid regions of Rajasthan. It holds immense importance in the lives of the Bishnoi people. They consider the Khejri tree as sacred and worship it as part of their religious rituals. The Bishnoi community has been actively involved in the conservation and protection of this tree species for centuries. They believe that cutting down a Khejri tree is equivalent to killing a person from their own community. The Bishnoi community has played a significant role in preventing the indiscriminate felling of Khejri trees and raising awareness about their ecological importance.

2. Black buck:
The Black buck (Antilope cervicapra) is a species of antelope found in the Indian subcontinent, including the arid regions of Rajasthan. It is known for its distinctive black coat and spiraled horns in males. The Bishnoi community holds the Black buck in high regard and considers it a symbol of grace, beauty, and peace. They have a deep connection with this species and have taken several measures to protect it from hunting and poaching. The Bishnoi community has historically resisted the killing of Black bucks and has even sacrificed their lives to protect them. They have set up sanctuaries and conservation areas to provide a safe habitat for these animals.

Conclusion:
The Bishnoi community of Rajasthan plays a crucial role in the conservation and protection of various organisms, especially the Prosopis cineraria tree and the Black buck. Their religious beliefs and deep-rooted traditions guide their commitment to environmental conservation. Through their collective efforts, the Bishnoi community has successfully contributed to the preservation of these species and their habitats, ensuring a sustainable future for both nature and mankind.

B) as plants have evolved earlier on the earth than animals and as plants are autotrophs ( they can produce their own food with the help of inorganic substances) plants are therefore found mostly in every part of the eart and outnumber animal species which depends on plants to get their foods,,

Ex situ conservation is a conservation method where threatened or endangered species of animals and plants are conserved outside their natural habitat. This method involves the removal of individuals from the wild and placing them in a controlled environment to protect them from threats or to support breeding programs. The correct answer to the question is option (c) because ex situ conservation is mainly used for the conservation of threatened animals and plants.

Reasons why ex situ conservation is used for threatened animals and plants:

1. Protection from threats: Ex situ conservation provides a controlled environment where endangered species can be protected from threats such as habitat destruction, pollution, hunting, and disease.

2. Breeding programs: Ex situ conservation can involve breeding programs where individuals are selected for their genetic diversity to increase the chances of producing healthy offspring. This can help to increase the population size of threatened species.

3. Research: Ex situ conservation provides an opportunity for researchers to study endangered species and their behavior in a controlled environment. This can help to develop conservation strategies for the species in the wild.

Examples of ex situ conservation:

1. Zoos and aquariums: These facilities often have breeding programs for endangered species and provide education for the public about the importance of conservation.

2. Botanical gardens: These gardens can house endangered plant species and provide opportunities for research and education.

3. Seed banks: These facilities store seeds from endangered plant species for future use in conservation efforts.

In conclusion, ex situ conservation is an important conservation method used to protect threatened animals and plants. It provides a controlled environment where breeding programs, research, and education can take place to increase the chances of survival for endangered species.

Bioprospecting
Bioprospecting refers to the exploration of biodiversity for new resources, such as medicinal plants or compounds. While bioprospecting can lead to valuable discoveries, it is not a broadly utilitarian argument for the conservation of biodiversity. This is because bioprospecting focuses on the potential benefits that humans can derive from biodiversity, rather than considering the intrinsic value of biodiversity itself.
Pollination
Pollination is a key ecosystem service provided by biodiversity. Many plants rely on pollinators to reproduce, and without them, food production would be severely impacted. By conserving biodiversity, we ensure that pollinators continue to thrive and support agricultural systems.
Aesthetic Value
The aesthetic value of biodiversity is another important reason for conservation efforts. Many people derive joy and inspiration from the beauty of nature, whether it's through observing diverse plant and animal species or exploring natural landscapes. Preserving biodiversity allows for future generations to experience and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
Climatic Regulation
Biodiversity plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate. Forests, for example, act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to mitigate climate change. By protecting biodiversity, we can maintain these important ecosystem functions and contribute to global efforts to address climate change.
In conclusion, while bioprospecting focuses on human-centric benefits, the broader utilitarian argument for the conservation of biodiversity includes pollination, aesthetic value, and climatic regulation as key reasons for preserving the diversity of life on Earth.

Statement 1: Tropical rainforests are disappearing rapidly from developing countries such as India.

Statement 2: No value is attached to these forests because they are poor in biodiversity.

The correct option is C: Statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is incorrect.

Explanation:
- The first statement is correct, as tropical rainforests are indeed disappearing rapidly from developing countries like India. This is due to various factors such as deforestation, urbanization, agriculture expansion, logging, and infrastructure development.
- However, the second statement is incorrect. Tropical rainforests are extremely rich in biodiversity, making them one of the most valuable ecosystems on Earth. They are home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, many of which are unique and found nowhere else. Rainforests play a crucial role in maintaining global climate stability, providing habitat for wildlife, and sustaining local communities.
- The biodiversity found in tropical rainforests is invaluable in terms of ecological services and potential for scientific discoveries. These forests support a complex web of interdependent species, contributing to the overall health of the planet. The loss of these forests has far-reaching consequences for both local and global ecosystems.
- Therefore, it is incorrect to say that no value is attached to tropical rainforests due to their supposed lack of biodiversity. On the contrary, their high biodiversity is one of the main reasons why these forests deserve protection and conservation efforts.

In conclusion, statement 1 is correct, but statement 2 is incorrect as tropical rainforests are highly valued for their rich biodiversity and ecological importance.

Introduction:
The question asks about the number of plant and animal species that have been discovered and described so far. The correct answer is option 'A', which states that 1.5 million species have been discovered and described.

Explanation:
Here is a detailed explanation of why option 'A' is the correct answer:

1. The Known Species:
- Scientists estimate that there are approximately 8.7 million species of plants and animals on Earth.
- However, the exact number is difficult to determine as new species are constantly being discovered, and some may become extinct before they are even identified.

2. Discovery and Description Process:
- Discovering and describing a new species is a complex and time-consuming process.
- Scientists rely on various methods, including fieldwork, DNA analysis, and museum collections, to identify and describe species.
- This involves studying the physical characteristics, behavior, habitat, and genetic makeup of the organisms.

3. Cataloging and Classification:
- Once a new species is discovered and described, it is cataloged and classified into the existing taxonomic system.
- The taxonomic system organizes species into groups based on their evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics.
- This helps scientists understand the diversity of life and how different species are related to each other.

4. Number of Described Species:
- As of now, scientists have described and named approximately 1.5 million species of plants and animals.
- This includes both terrestrial and marine species from various regions around the world.
- The number of described species is constantly increasing as new discoveries are made and existing species are better understood.

5. Unexplored Biodiversity:
- Despite the progress made in discovering and describing species, there is still a vast amount of biodiversity that remains unexplored.
- Many regions, especially in tropical rainforests and deep oceans, are still relatively unexplored, and countless new species are waiting to be discovered.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the number of plant and animal species that have been discovered and described so far is approximately 1.5 million. However, this represents only a fraction of the estimated 8.7 million species on Earth. The process of discovering and describing species is ongoing, and scientists continue to explore and catalog the Earth's biodiversity.

The correct answer is option 'B' - 34.

Biodiversity hotspots refer to areas with high levels of biodiversity that are also under significant threat from human activities. These hotspots are identified based on certain criteria such as the number of endemic species (species found nowhere else in the world), the degree of habitat loss, and the level of threat to the biodiversity present.

Here is a detailed explanation of the answer:

1. Definition of biodiversity hotspots:
- Biodiversity hotspots are regions that are biologically rich and have a high level of endemism.
- They are characterized by a large number of unique plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.
- These hotspots are also under threat due to human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change.

2. Criteria for identifying biodiversity hotspots:
- Biodiversity hotspots are identified based on two main criteria: species richness and degree of threat.
- Species richness refers to the number of species present in an area, while the degree of threat refers to the level of risk faced by the biodiversity due to human activities.

3. Number of biodiversity hotspots:
- The concept of biodiversity hotspots was first introduced by Norman Myers in 1988.
- Initially, Myers identified 10 hotspots based on the above criteria.
- Later, the number of hotspots was revised to 25 in 1999, considering additional factors such as the importance of the areas for evolutionary processes.
- The hotspots cover only 1.4% of the Earth's land surface but support more than 60% of the world's plant, bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian species.

4. Revision of the number of hotspots:
- In 2000, the number of hotspots was further revised to 34 to include additional regions that met the criteria.
- These additional hotspots were identified based on updated data and improved understanding of biodiversity patterns.
- The revised list includes regions such as the Western Ghats and Sri Lanka, which were not included in the original list of 10 hotspots.

In conclusion, there are currently 34 recognized biodiversity hotspots in the world. These hotspots are important for global biodiversity conservation efforts as they harbor a significant proportion of the Earth's species and are under threat from human activities.

The correct answer is option 'D', which states that selective hunting of dangerous and threatening species is not an objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The CBD is an international treaty that aims to promote the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, as well as the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources.

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was adopted in 1992 during the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It has three primary objectives:

1. Conservation of Biodiversity:
The CBD seeks to conserve biodiversity, which refers to the variety of life on Earth, including ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity. It recognizes the intrinsic value of biodiversity and the need to maintain its ecological integrity. The conservation objective focuses on protecting and preserving natural habitats, ecosystems, and species to ensure their long-term survival.

2. Sustainable Use of Biodiversity:
The CBD promotes the sustainable use of biodiversity, which involves utilizing natural resources in a way that maintains their availability for future generations. It recognizes that human activities, such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and tourism, can have an impact on biodiversity. Therefore, the CBD encourages the adoption of sustainable practices that minimize negative impacts and ensure the continued provision of ecosystem services.

3. Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits:
The CBD emphasizes the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources. Genetic resources are the heritable material of plants, animals, and microorganisms that have potential value for human use. The CBD recognizes that the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity should be accompanied by the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits derived from accessing and utilizing these resources. This objective aims to ensure that countries and communities that hold genetic resources are fairly compensated for their contribution to scientific research, innovation, and commercialization.

Selective hunting of dangerous and threatening species, as mentioned in option 'D', does not align with the objectives of the CBD. The Convention focuses on conservation, sustainable use, and benefit-sharing rather than promoting hunting practices that may endanger species or disrupt ecosystems. The CBD aims to protect biodiversity as a whole and promote the long-term sustainability of ecosystems and the services they provide to humanity.

First Earth Summit for Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was held at Rio de Janeiro (1992), Brazil.

The First Earth Summit for the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992. The summit, also known as the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), brought together representatives from 172 countries, as well as numerous organizations and NGOs, to discuss global environmental issues and create a plan for sustainable development.

Key Points:
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: The summit was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which is known for its rich biodiversity and environmental conservation efforts. The city provided a fitting backdrop for the discussions on the Convention on Biological Diversity.

- United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED): The Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro was also known as the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). The conference aimed to address pressing environmental issues and promote sustainable development at a global level.

- Representatives from 172 countries: The summit brought together representatives from 172 countries, highlighting the international recognition of the need to address biodiversity loss and promote conservation efforts. The diverse participation ensured that a wide range of perspectives and experiences were considered during the discussions.

- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): The main focus of the summit was the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), an international treaty aimed at conserving and sustainably using the Earth's biodiversity. The CBD seeks to promote the conservation of ecosystems, species, and genetic resources, as well as the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their use.

- Objectives of the Summit: The Earth Summit had several objectives, including the adoption of the CBD and the negotiation of other agreements related to environmental protection and sustainable development. The summit also aimed to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and promote international cooperation in conserving and managing natural resources.

- Legacy of the Earth Summit: The Rio Earth Summit was a landmark event in the history of environmental governance. It led to the adoption of the CBD, which has since been ratified by nearly all countries. The summit also resulted in the creation of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the establishment of the Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD), both of which play important roles in promoting sustainable development worldwide.

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