All questions of Biodiversity and its Conservation for ACT 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. 

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.

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

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.

Tropics have more biodiversity due to warm temperature and high humidity.

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.

Beatles show maximum diversity in species as they represent the largest order of insects.

The regression slope in the species-area relationship indicates how species richness increases with increasing habitat area. A steeper slope suggests a higher rate of species accumulation as area increases.

Function of Pollinators in Ecosystems
Pollinators play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, primarily through their contribution to plant reproduction.
Key Role in Plant Reproduction
- Pollination Process: Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, birds, and bats, transfer pollen from the male parts of flowers (anthers) to the female parts (stigmas). This process is essential for fertilization and the production of seeds.
- Diversity of Plants: By enabling the reproduction of flowering plants, pollinators contribute significantly to biodiversity. Healthy populations of pollinators support a wide variety of plant species, which in turn sustain other organisms in the ecosystem.
- Food Production: Many crops and fruits depend on pollinators for their reproduction. Without them, the yield of essential food sources would drastically decline, impacting food security and human nutrition.
Impact on Ecosystem Health
- Habitat Creation: Pollinated plants provide habitats and food sources for various animals, insects, and microorganisms, playing a vital role in the overall health of ecosystems.
- Ecosystem Stability: A diverse range of plants contributes to ecosystem stability. Pollinators help ensure that various plants can reproduce, thus maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
In contrast, options such as regulating temperature, controlling pests, and filtering water are functions associated with other organisms and ecological processes. Thus, the correct answer is indeed option 'C', as pollinators are fundamental to facilitating plant reproduction, which is essential for sustaining ecosystems.

Species area relationship is the relationship between
the area and the particular habitat. It was first studied by Alexander Von Humbolt. He observed that within a region species richness increased with increasing explored area, but only up to a limit. It is dependent on immigration, extinction and clustering etc. So, the correct answer is option 'A'.

Understanding Species Loss
Species loss is a critical issue driven by several major factors. However, not all listed factors contribute equally to this decline. Let's explore the reasons behind the correct answer: option 'D'.
Major Causes of Species Loss
- Habitat Loss and Fragmentation:
This is the primary cause of species extinction. Human activities such as urban development, agriculture, and deforestation lead to the destruction and fragmentation of habitats. When ecosystems are disrupted, species lose their homes and resources, which can lead to population declines.
- Over-exploitation of Resources:
Overfishing, hunting, and harvesting of plants can deplete species faster than they can reproduce. Unsustainable practices result in the extinction of vulnerable species and disrupt ecological balance.
- Biological Invasions:
Non-native species can outcompete, prey on, or bring diseases to native species, leading to declines or extinctions. Invasive species can alter habitat conditions, making it difficult for local species to survive.
Species-Area Relationship
- Increased Species-Area Relationship:
This concept refers to the idea that larger areas typically support more species due to greater habitat diversity. While it is a useful ecological principle, it does not directly cause species loss. In fact, conserving larger areas can help preserve biodiversity by providing more habitat for various species.
Conclusion
In summary, options A, B, and C are significant contributors to species loss, while option D, the increased species-area relationship, is not a direct cause. Instead, it highlights the importance of habitat size in biodiversity conservation. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for effective conservation strategies.

Due to habitat loss animals migrate and lose their favourable condition, food, temperature, water that makes it difficult to survive and become extinct.

Understanding Paul Ehrlich's Analogy
Paul Ehrlich's analogy highlights the importance of species in ecosystems and their functionalities. Let's break down the provided options and clarify why option 'D' is considered incorrect.
Key Species vs. Less Important Species
- Option (a) states that the loss of key species, which drive major ecosystem functions, poses a greater threat to ecosystem stability than the loss of less important species. This is accurate; key species often play critical roles (e.g., pollinators, top predators) that maintain ecological balance.
Initial Ecosystem Resilience
- Option (b) suggests that the proper functioning of an ecosystem may initially remain unaffected by species loss. This is also valid; ecosystems can often absorb some level of species loss without immediate impact, showcasing resilience.
Long-Term Effects of Continuous Species Loss
- Option (c) emphasizes that continuous species loss will eventually impact ecosystem health over time. This is correct, as prolonged loss can disrupt food webs and ecological processes.
Misconception of Insignificant Species
- Option (d) claims that even the loss of not very significant species can lead to critical damage to ecosystems. This statement is misleading. While all species contribute to ecosystem dynamics, not all species have equal impact. Some species may be redundant and their loss may not result in immediate critical damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, option 'D' is considered incorrect because it overemphasizes the significance of lesser species in causing critical damage to ecosystems. The reality is that while biodiversity is crucial, not all species hold equal weight in maintaining ecosystem stability.

Introduction:
The excessive exploitation of species has led to a significant reduction in their population size, making them vulnerable to extinction. The world is currently experiencing accelerated rates of species extinctions, primarily due to human interference. This answer will explain why habitat destruction is the first major cause of species extinction.

Habitat Destruction:
- Habitat destruction refers to the alteration, fragmentation, or complete destruction of natural habitats. This process directly impacts the ability of species to survive and thrive in their native environments.
- Human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and industrialization have resulted in the destruction of various habitats, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands.
- When habitats are destroyed, species lose their homes and essential resources like food, water, and shelter. This disruption often leads to a decline in the population size of affected species.
- Many species have specific habitat requirements and are unable to adapt to new or altered environments. As a result, they face difficulties in finding suitable habitats to survive and reproduce.
- The loss of habitat also disrupts ecological interactions and food chains, affecting the entire ecosystem. This can have cascading effects on other species, leading to a decline in their populations as well.

Impact on Species Extinction:
- Habitat destruction is considered the primary cause of species extinction because it directly eliminates the habitats required for their survival.
- As habitats are destroyed, species become more vulnerable to other threats such as predation, competition, and disease.
- Additionally, habitat destruction reduces the available space for species to live and reproduce, leading to population declines and, eventually, extinction.
- The loss of habitats is particularly detrimental to specialist species that have specific requirements and cannot easily adapt to new environments.
- Numerous examples throughout history, such as the extinction of the Dodo and passenger pigeons, highlight the devastating consequences of habitat destruction on species survival.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, habitat destruction is the first major cause of species extinction. Human activities that result in the alteration, fragmentation, or complete destruction of habitats directly impact the ability of species to survive and reproduce. This disruption leads to population declines and vulnerability to other threats, ultimately resulting in extinction. It is crucial to address habitat destruction and implement conservation measures to protect and preserve the biodiversity of our planet.

Steller's sea cow has become extinct in the last 500 years due to overexploitation by humans.

Understanding Ex-Situ Conservation
Ex-situ conservation refers to the protection and conservation of species outside their natural habitats. This method is essential for species that are endangered or threatened due to habitat destruction, climate change, or other human activities.
Key Features of Ex-Situ Conservation:
- Definition: Ex-situ conservation involves relocating species to controlled environments such as botanical gardens, zoos, aquariums, or seed banks.
- Purpose: The primary aim is to safeguard biodiversity by creating a backup for species that face extinction in their natural habitats.
- Methods:
- Captive breeding programs help increase population numbers.
- Seed banks preserve genetic material for plants.
- Aquatic species can be maintained in controlled aquatic systems.
Advantages of Ex-Situ Conservation:
- Protection from Extinction: Provides a safe environment away from threats like poaching and habitat loss.
- Research Opportunities: Facilitates scientific research on species’ behaviors, genetics, and reproductive methods.
- Education and Awareness: Zoos and aquariums serve as educational platforms to raise awareness about conservation issues.
Limitations of Ex-Situ Conservation:
- Limited Genetic Diversity: Captive populations may suffer from inbreeding.
- Reintroduction Challenges: Animals bred in captivity may struggle to adapt to wild conditions.
- Resource Intensive: Ex-situ conservation often requires significant financial and logistical resources.
In summary, ex-situ conservation plays a crucial role in the overall strategy for biodiversity conservation, complementing in-situ efforts by providing a safety net for vulnerable species.

Understanding Biodiversity and the Correct Statements
The question presents three statements regarding biodiversity, and the correct answer is option 'A', which states that both statements b and c are correct. Let's explore each statement:
Statement A: Biodiversity and Latitude
- Biodiversity generally decreases as one moves from the equator towards the poles.
- Tropical regions at low latitudes are rich in species diversity, while higher latitudes tend to have fewer species.
- Therefore, statement A is incorrect.
Statement B: Rivet Popper Hypothesis
- The rivet popper hypothesis, proposed by Paul Ehrlich, uses the metaphor of rivets on an airplane wing to illustrate the importance of biodiversity.
- In this analogy, each rivet represents a species; losing species (or rivets) can lead to the failure of the ecosystem (or airplane).
- The key species in this analogy are not referred to as "rivets on the wings," making statement B incorrect.
Statement C: Species Diversity in India
- India is recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, containing approximately 8.1% of the world's species diversity.
- This statistic reflects the rich variety of flora and fauna in the country, making statement C correct.
Conclusion
- Therefore, the correct answer should highlight that statement C is correct, while statement A and B are incorrect.
- As per the question's assertion, the answer should be 'd' (a and c only) if it were accurate, but given the context, it's clear that the understanding of the statements needs clarification.
In summary, while the correct answer provided is option 'A', it should be noted that the statements regarding biodiversity and the rivet popper hypothesis need to be carefully evaluated for accuracy.

Evil quartet, i.e., four major causes of biodiversity loss are habitat loss and fragmentation, over exploitation, alien species invasion and co-extinction.

Understanding Biodiversity Loss
Loss of biodiversity refers to the decline in the variety of life on Earth, which can have significant ecological consequences. The effects of such loss can be profound, impacting ecosystems and human life alike.
Consequences of Biodiversity Loss
- Decline in Plant Production: A decrease in biodiversity can lead to lower plant productivity. Diverse ecosystems are more resilient and productive because they utilize resources more efficiently.
- Increased Variability in Water Use: Biodiversity contributes to the regulation of water cycles. A loss of species can lead to unpredictable changes in water availability and quality, affecting agriculture and drinking water sources.
- Increased Variability in Pest and Disease Cycles: Reduced biodiversity often results in an increase in pest and disease outbreaks. When natural predators or resistant plant varieties diminish, pests can thrive, leading to crop failures and health issues.
Why Increased Resistance is Incorrect
- Increased Resistance to Environmental Perturbance: This statement is incorrect because loss of biodiversity typically reduces an ecosystem's resilience. Diverse ecosystems have various species that can adapt to changes, providing stability and resistance to environmental stressors. When biodiversity declines, ecosystems become more vulnerable to disturbances like climate change, habitat loss, and pollution.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer is option 'B' because biodiversity loss does not lead to increased resistance; rather, it diminishes an ecosystem's ability to cope with environmental changes. Understanding these relationships is crucial for conservation efforts and maintaining ecological balance.

Biodiversity hotspots are a method to identify those regions of the world where attention is needed to address biodiversity loss and to guide investments in conservation. The idea was first developed by Norman Myers in 1988 to identify tropical forests hotspots characterised both by exceptional levels of plant endemism and serious habitat loss which he then expanded to a more global scope. A total of 34 hotspots in the world has been identified till date by Norman Myers, that cover only 2.3% of earth surface but are habitat for 77% of world's species.

Population traits which make species susceptible to extinction are: small population, higher status of trophic level and inability to switch over to alternate foods.

Insects have a powerful sense that could lead to something very dangerous and lead that person into a serious situation which meaning it’s has the highest number of species in the nature that we live in and on the planet we shall survive on! The answer would A!

Understanding Alien Species Invasions and Co-extinctions
Alien species invasions and co-extinctions are critical ecological issues impacting biodiversity. Let's analyze the statements provided:
Statement i: Nile Perch in Lake Victoria
- The introduction of Nile perch has indeed caused significant declines in indigenous cichlid fish species. This is a well-documented case of how an invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems and lead to the extinction of native species.
Statement ii: Invasive Weed Species
- This statement is incorrect. Invasive species like Lantana and water hyacinth pose substantial threats to native species by outcompeting them for resources, altering habitats, and disrupting local ecosystems. They can lead to the decline or extinction of native flora and fauna.
Statement iii: Co-extinctions
- Co-extinctions occur when the extinction of one species leads to the extinction of another that relies on it for survival, often seen in mutualistic relationships. This statement is correct, as the loss of a species can have cascading effects on its ecological partners.
Statement iv: African Catfish Introduction
- The African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) has been legally introduced into rivers in various regions for aquaculture. This statement is accurate and reflects the practice of using certain fish species to enhance aquaculture productivity.
Conclusion
- Based on the analysis, statements i, iii, and iv are correct, while statement ii is false. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A': i and iii.
Understanding these dynamics is crucial for conservation efforts and managing biodiversity effectively.

Endangered Species
Endangered species refer to the species whose number of individuals is greatly reduced to a critical level. These species are at risk of extinction in the near future if appropriate measures are not taken to protect and conserve them. The term "endangered" is used to describe the level of threat a species faces based on its population size and the potential risks it encounters in its natural habitat.

Reasons for Endangerment
There are several factors that can contribute to a species becoming endangered. Some of the key reasons include:

1. Habitat loss: The destruction, degradation, or fragmentation of natural habitats due to human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and agriculture can eliminate or disrupt the habitats of many species.

2. Climate change: Alterations in temperature, precipitation patterns, and sea levels caused by climate change can negatively impact ecosystems and the species that rely on them.

3. Pollution: Pollution from various sources, such as industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and air pollution, can contaminate habitats, water bodies, and food sources, leading to the decline of species.

4. Overexploitation: Unsustainable hunting, fishing, and harvesting practices can deplete populations of certain species, pushing them towards endangerment.

5. Invasive species: The introduction of non-native species into ecosystems can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem and outcompete native species for resources, leading to the decline of the latter.

6. Disease and predation: Outbreaks of diseases or the presence of predators can have a significant impact on the population size of certain species, especially if they lack natural defenses or immunity.

Conservation Efforts
To prevent the extinction of endangered species, various conservation efforts are undertaken. These include:

1. Habitat protection: Establishing protected areas, national parks, and wildlife reserves to safeguard the habitats of endangered species from human encroachment and destructive activities.

2. Species reintroduction: Captive breeding programs and reintroduction initiatives help increase the population size of endangered species and reintroduce them into their natural habitats.

3. Conservation education: Raising awareness among the public about the importance of biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable practices helps garner support and promote responsible behavior towards endangered species and their habitats.

4. International agreements and legislation: Governments and organizations work together to develop and implement laws, regulations, and international agreements that protect endangered species and regulate activities that pose a threat to them.

5. Research and monitoring: Conducting scientific research, monitoring population trends, and assessing the threats faced by endangered species help in developing effective conservation strategies and management plans.

By implementing these conservation initiatives, it is possible to mitigate the risks faced by endangered species and work towards their recovery and long-term survival.

Understanding Species Diversity in Tropical Regions
The statements regarding the diversity of plants and animals in tropical regions have varying degrees of accuracy. Here's a detailed explanation of why options i, ii, and iii are correct, while iv is inaccurate.
i. Longer Evolutionary Timeframes
- Species diversity is indeed higher in tropical regions compared to temperate and polar areas.
- This is primarily because tropical regions have experienced fewer severe climate changes over time, allowing species to evolve and diversify more extensively.
ii. Niche Specialization
- Tropical environments are characterized by less seasonal variation.
- This stability promotes niche specialization, where species adapt to specific roles or habitats, leading to greater species diversity.
iii. Higher Solar Energy Availability
- Tropical regions receive more solar energy, which enhances productivity.
- Increased plant growth supports a larger and more diverse array of animal species, contributing to higher biodiversity.
iv. Misconception about Polar Regions
- Polar regions have been significantly affected by glaciation events, leading to lower species diversity.
- In contrast, tropical regions have maintained a more stable climate, fostering a rich variety of life forms.
Conclusion
So, the correct answer is option 'A' (i, ii, and iii) as these statements accurately reflect the reasons behind the higher biodiversity in tropical regions, while option iv is incorrect.

India's Species Diversity
India is renowned for its rich biodiversity, and the statements provided reflect various aspects of this diversity. Let's break down each statement to understand why options (i), (ii), and (iii) are correct.
Statement Analysis
- i. India accounts for 8.1% of global species diversity despite covering only 2.4% of the world's land area.
- This statement is accurate. India is one of the 17 megadiverse countries, hosting a significant percentage of the world’s total species despite its relatively small land area.
- ii. Approximately 45,000 plant species have been documented in India, along with twice as many animal species.
- This statement is also correct. India boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, with approximately 45,000 documented plant species and an estimated 91,000 animal species, highlighting its ecological richness.
- iii. According to global estimates, only 22% of all living species have been identified so far.
- This statement holds true as well. Global biodiversity studies indicate that a significant number of species remain undiscovered, emphasizing the ongoing need for research in biodiversity.
- iv. It is estimated that there are less than 100,000 undiscovered plant species in India.
- This statement is less accurate. Estimates suggest that there could be more undiscovered species, potentially exceeding 100,000, indicating that the actual number of undiscovered species could be higher than stated.
Conclusion
Based on this analysis, the correct answer is option A: i, ii, and iii are correct statements about biodiversity in India.