All questions of Biodiversity and its Conservation for NEET Exam

Deforestation is the process of cutting down trees and clearing forests or woodlands, typically to make way for agricultural or urban development. This process has a significant impact on the environment and can result in the extinction of many species. The following are the reasons why deforestation is the main reason for species extinction:

1. Loss of habitat: Deforestation leads to the destruction of natural habitats of many species. Trees provide homes for animals, birds, and insects. When these habitats are destroyed, the animals are forced to migrate, which can lead to the extinction of the species.

2. Fragmentation of ecosystems: Deforestation fragments ecosystems, creating isolated pockets of habitat that are too small to sustain a viable population of many species. As a result, many species become extinct due to the lack of genetic diversity and the inability to find mates.

3. Climate change: Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen. The destruction of forests leads to an increase in carbon dioxide levels, which contributes to climate change. Climate change can cause the extinction of many species that cannot adapt to the changing environment.

4. Hunting and poaching: Deforestation also leads to an increase in hunting and poaching activities, as many species are displaced from their natural habitats. This further increases the risk of extinction for many species.

In conclusion, deforestation is the main reason for species extinction as it leads to the loss of habitat, fragmentation of ecosystems, climate change, and an increase in hunting and poaching activities. It is, therefore, essential to implement measures to protect forests and prevent their destruction to conserve biodiversity and prevent the extinction of many species.

Presently, 12% all the birds species, 23% all mammals species, 31% all gymnosperms species and 32% all amphibian species in world face the threat of extinctions.

Rauwolfia vomitoria is the source of active chemical drug reserpine, which is prescribed in hypertension and act as tranquilliser. 

Obviously wheat in following option .. but max diversity. found in india that is rice.

36 bio diversity hotspots in world...

Fungi represent the highest number of species in the world. Overall fungi have a worldwide distribution, around 1,20,000 species of fungi have been described by taxonomists.

Red Data Book is a state document established for documenting rare and endangered species of animals, plants and fungi, as well as some local subspecies (such as the Ladoga seal) that exist within the territory of the Russian Federation and its continental shelf and marine economic zone. The book has been adopted by Russia and all CIS states to enact a common agreement on rare and endangered species protection.

Red data books are produced by IUCN, which stands for the International Union for Conservation of Nature. These books are a type of conservation tool used to identify and assess the conservation status of various species around the world.

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species is the most well-known red data book produced by the organization. This list provides a comprehensive overview of the conservation status of tens of thousands of species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and plants.

The main purpose of red data books is to provide information on species that are at risk of extinction or are already extinct. This information can be used to inform conservation efforts, such as habitat preservation, captive breeding programs, and wildlife reintroduction programs.

Red data books typically include information on the following:

- The scientific name of the species
- The common name of the species
- The population size of the species
- The geographic range of the species
- The habitat of the species
- The reasons why the species is at risk of extinction
- The conservation measures that are being taken to protect the species

In addition to the IUCN Red List, other organizations also produce red data books that focus on specific regions or groups of species. For example, the European Red List is produced by the European Commission and includes information on the conservation status of European species.

Overall, red data books are an important conservation tool that helps to raise awareness about the plight of endangered species and inform conservation efforts around the world.

The species of an organism lasting with the change in suitable condition of survival with the time. Such species are called critically endangered.

Clarias Gariepinus

There are more than 30 biodiversity hot-spots in the world. India has 4 biodiversity hot-spots.

7 million !!!

River dolphin is India's national aquatic animal. To save dolphins from extinction, the Union government has declared them as the national aquatic animal.

Diversity of plants and animals in the ecosystem is called ecological diversity.

Legal Conversion of Land into the Status of Royal Forest

The legal conversion of land into the status of royal forest refers to the process of designating a particular piece of land as a royal forest through legal means. This status grants the land special protections and regulations, primarily aimed at preserving and promoting the growth of trees and forests. The correct answer to this question is option 'B', which is afforestation. Let's explore this answer in detail.

Afforestation:
Afforestation is the process of establishing a forest, or stand of trees, in an area where there was no forest. It involves planting trees in an area that was previously devoid of significant tree cover. Afforestation is a proactive approach to combat deforestation and promote environmental sustainability. By converting land into a royal forest, afforestation efforts are legally recognized and supported.

Reasons for Legal Conversion:
There are several reasons why land may be legally converted into the status of royal forest:

1. Conservation: Royal forests are established to conserve and protect the natural environment, particularly forests and associated biodiversity. This legal status ensures that the land is managed and protected according to specific regulations and guidelines.

2. Environmental Benefits: Afforestation and the establishment of royal forests contribute to various environmental benefits. These include carbon sequestration, soil erosion prevention, water cycle regulation, habitat preservation, and climate regulation.

3. Historical and Cultural Significance: Some royal forests have historical and cultural significance, often dating back centuries. By preserving and protecting these areas, their historical and cultural value is upheld.

4. Sustainable Resource Management: Royal forests are often managed sustainably to ensure the long-term availability of forest resources such as timber, non-timber forest products, and wildlife. Proper management practices help strike a balance between resource utilization and conservation.

5. Recreation and Tourism: Many royal forests are open to the public and provide recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. These areas also attract tourists, contributing to local economies.

Conclusion:
The legal conversion of land into the status of royal forest refers to the process of designating a specific piece of land as a protected forest area. This status promotes afforestation efforts, conservation, sustainable resource management, and environmental benefits. By legally recognizing and supporting the establishment of royal forests, authorities ensure the long-term preservation and sustainable use of these valuable natural resources.

There are many reasons behind the loss of biodiversity among them habitat loss is one, others are over-exploitation, alien species invasions, co-extinctions.

Assertion (A): Tropics have more biodiversity.
- The assertion is true.
- Tropical regions, characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity, support an extensive variety of species.
- Factors like consistent sunlight, abundant rainfall, and stable temperatures create an ideal environment for diverse ecosystems.
Reason (R): Climate of the tropical region is more seasonal.
- The reason is false.
- Unlike temperate regions, tropical climates are not significantly seasonal; they typically experience a wet and dry season rather than marked seasonal changes.
- This consistent climate allows for year-round growth and reproduction of many species, contributing to higher biodiversity.
Conclusion:
- Since the assertion is true and the reason is false, the correct answer is option 'C': "Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false."
- Understanding the distinction between the biodiversity of tropical regions and their climate patterns is crucial for ecological studies and conservation efforts.

Understanding Bioprospecting
Bioprospecting is the process of exploring biodiversity for new resources that can be utilized for various human needs, particularly in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and biotechnology. The primary aim of bioprospecting is encapsulated in option 'B':
Exploring Molecular and Genetic Diversity for Economic Benefits
Key Objectives of Bioprospecting:

• Utilization of Natural Resources: Bioprospecting seeks to discover new biochemical compounds and genetic materials that can lead to innovative products, especially in medicine and agriculture.
• Economic Incentives: By tapping into the molecular and genetic diversity present in various organisms, bioprospecting aims to create economic opportunities through the development of new drugs, agricultural products, and industrial applications.
• Innovation in Biotechnology: The exploration of unique genetic traits can lead to breakthroughs in biotechnology, including the development of new crop varieties that are more resilient to pests and climate change.
• Conservation and Sustainability: Although primarily focused on economic benefits, bioprospecting encourages the sustainable use of biodiversity, ensuring that natural resources are not depleted in the process.

Conclusion
In summary, the essence of bioprospecting lies in its capacity to harness the vast molecular and genetic diversity of life for economic gain, fostering innovation while promoting responsible stewardship of the planet's biodiversity. This makes it a crucial endeavor in the fields of science, medicine, and sustainable development.

• Birds are known for their extensive diversity, with over 10,000 species worldwide, adapting to almost every environment on Earth.
• Mammals also exhibit significant diversity, with approximately 6,400 species identified, ranging from the smallest bumblebee bat to the largest blue whale.
• Reptiles include a wide variety of lizards, snakes, turtles, and crocodiles, with over 10,000 species. They are diverse but not as widely distributed as birds and mammals, especially in colder climates.
• Amphibians, which include frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts, have around 8,000 species. They are generally more sensitive to environmental changes and habitat destruction, making them more vulnerable to extinction.

Ratio of plants and species in India is 2 : 1.

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.