Olympiad Test: Conservation Of Plants And Animals - 2 - Class 8 MCQ

Total number of national parks in India
There are 104 national parks in India.

Endangered Species:
- Tiger: The tiger is an endangered species due to habitat loss, poaching, and illegal trade. There are several subspecies of tigers, and all of them are facing threats to their survival.
- Elephant: The elephant is also an endangered species, mainly due to habitat loss, poaching for ivory, and human-wildlife conflict. There are two main species of elephants, the African elephant and the Asian elephant, both of which are under threat.
- Peacock: The peacock is not considered an endangered species. It is a common bird found in various parts of the world, known for its beautiful plumage.
- Monkey: Monkeys, in general, are not endangered species. There are numerous species of monkeys found in different habitats around the world, and while some may face local threats, they are not globally endangered.
Conclusion:
Based on the given options, the endangered species is the tiger.

The correct answer is B: extinct species.

Explanation:
To determine the correct answer, let's define the terms provided in the options:
- Endangered species: A species that is at risk of becoming extinct in the near future.
- Extinct species: A species that no longer exists and has no living members.
- Vulnerable species: A species that is considered to be at risk of becoming endangered in the future.
- Critically endangered species: A species that is at an extremely high risk of becoming extinct in the wild.
Based on this information, we can conclude that Dodo is an extinct species because it no longer exists and has no living members. The Dodo, scientifically known as Raphus cucullatus, was a flightless bird that inhabited the island of Mauritius and became extinct in the late 17th century due to human activities such as hunting and habitat destruction.
Therefore, the correct answer is B: extinct species.

WWF stands for World Wide Fund for Nature (formerly World Wildlife Fund)
The correct answer is option A: World Wide Fund for Nature. Here is a detailed explanation of why this is the correct answer:
Introduction:
The WWF is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to environmental conservation, founded in 1961. It is one of the world's largest and most respected independent conservation organizations.
Explanation:
The acronym WWF stands for World Wide Fund for Nature. The organization originally started as the World Wildlife Fund, but later changed its name to World Wide Fund for Nature to reflect its broader conservation efforts beyond just wildlife.
Key points:
- The correct expansion of WWF is World Wide Fund for Nature.
- The organization is focused on conservation efforts for the environment and its biodiversity.
- WWF works towards sustainable development, tackling issues such as deforestation, climate change, habitat destruction, and species extinction.
- It collaborates with governments, businesses, local communities, and individuals to find practical solutions to environmental challenges.
- WWF operates in more than 100 countries and has a global network of offices and supporters.
- The organization raises awareness, conducts scientific research, implements conservation projects, and advocates for policy change.
- WWF's iconic panda logo is recognized worldwide and symbolizes the organization's commitment to protecting nature.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, WWF stands for World Wide Fund for Nature. The organization is dedicated to conserving the environment and its biodiversity through various initiatives and collaborations.

WWF's Work in Wildlife Conservation

• WWF, or the World Wildlife Fund, primarily focuses on wildlife conservation efforts around the world.


• The organization aims to protect and preserve endangered species, their habitats, and the biodiversity of ecosystems.


• WWF works on various aspects of wildlife conservation, including:




• Protecting endangered species: WWF focuses on conserving iconic and threatened species such as tigers, elephants, pandas, and whales.


• Preserving habitats: The organization works to safeguard and restore critical habitats such as forests, wetlands, coral reefs, and freshwater ecosystems.


• Combating illegal wildlife trade: WWF works to stop the illegal trade of endangered species and their parts, which threatens their survival.


• Addressing human-wildlife conflict: WWF promotes sustainable solutions to reduce conflicts between humans and wildlife, minimizing negative impacts on both.


• Supporting conservation research and initiatives: The organization funds scientific research and collaborates with local communities, governments, and other stakeholders to implement effective conservation measures.




• WWF's wildlife conservation efforts aim to ensure the long-term survival of species, maintain ecological balance, and protect the natural resources vital for the well-being of both wildlife and humans.

In conclusion, WWF primarily works in the field of wildlife conservation, focusing on protecting endangered species, preserving habitats, combating illegal wildlife trade, addressing human-wildlife conflict, and supporting conservation research and initiatives.

The correct answer is C: red data book.
The book that classifies different species into different threat categories for different countries is called the Red Data Book. Here's a detailed explanation:
- Red Data Book: The Red Data Book is a comprehensive compilation of data on different species that are at risk of extinction. It provides information on the conservation status of various species, including plants, animals, and fungi.
- Threat Categories: The Red Data Book classifies species into different threat categories based on their conservation status. These categories include critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, near threatened, and least concern.
- Country-specific Classification: The Red Data Book takes into account the specific conservation status of species in different countries. It recognizes that the threats faced by species can vary depending on the geographical location and environmental factors of each country.
- Conservation Efforts: The information provided in the Red Data Book helps in identifying species that require urgent conservation efforts. It serves as a valuable resource for conservationists, researchers, and policymakers to prioritize their conservation actions and allocate resources effectively.
In conclusion, the book that classifies different species into different threat categories for different countries is the Red Data Book.

Endangered Animal:
- Asiatic Lion: The Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) is an endangered animal species. It is primarily found in the Gir Forest National Park in Gujarat, India. Here are some key points about the Asiatic lion:
- The Asiatic lion is one of the five major big cat species found in the world.
- It has a smaller population compared to its African counterparts.
- The primary threats to the Asiatic lion's survival include habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts with humans.
- Conservation efforts, such as protected areas and breeding programs, are in place to save the species from extinction.
- The IUCN Red List categorizes the Asiatic lion as endangered.
- Dodo: The dodo (Raphus cucullatus) is an extinct flightless bird that was endemic to the island of Mauritius. It became extinct in the late 17th century due to human activities, such as hunting and habitat destruction. The dodo is not an endangered animal as it is already extinct.
- Gorilla: Gorillas are not considered endangered as a whole, but certain subspecies are critically endangered. For example, the mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) is critically endangered, primarily due to habitat loss, poaching, and civil unrest in their native range.
- Sikkim Stag: The Sikkim stag (Cervus canadensis hanglu) is a species of deer found in the Himalayan region. It is currently listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The primary threats to its population include habitat loss, poaching, and competition with livestock.
In conclusion, the correct answer is B: Asiatic lion, as it is an endangered animal species. The dodo is already extinct, while the gorilla and Sikkim stag have certain subspecies that are endangered or vulnerable.

India's Asiatic Lions
Location:
- Asiatic lions are found in India.
- They are specifically found in the Gir forest in Gujarat state.
Gir Forest:
- The Gir forest is a wildlife sanctuary and national park located in Gujarat.
- It is the only place in the world where wild Asiatic lions are found.
- The area is a mix of dry deciduous forests, savannahs, and grasslands, providing a suitable habitat for lions.
Conservation Efforts:
- The Asiatic lion population in Gir forest faced the threat of extinction in the past, with only a few individuals remaining.
- However, due to dedicated conservation efforts, their numbers have increased over the years.
- The Gir forest is now a protected area, and various measures have been taken to ensure the conservation of these majestic creatures.
Importance:
- The Asiatic lion is an important symbol of wildlife conservation in India.
- It is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List, making its conservation crucial for the preservation of biodiversity.
In conclusion, Asiatic lions are found in India, specifically in the Gir forest of Gujarat. The conservation efforts in this region have played a vital role in protecting and increasing the population of these magnificent animals.

The flora and fauna of a country are among the most important natural resources. Let's break down the given options to determine which one is the correct answer:
A. Renewable: This refers to resources that can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar energy or wind power. While some aspects of flora and fauna can be renewable (e.g., certain plant species), this does not encompass the entire range of flora and fauna.
B. Non-renewable: This refers to resources that cannot be replenished once they are depleted, such as fossil fuels or minerals. Flora and fauna are living organisms that can reproduce and replenish themselves, so they are not considered non-renewable.
C. Perishable: This refers to resources that have a limited shelf life or are easily spoiled, such as fresh produce. While individual organisms within the flora and fauna category may be perishable, it does not apply to the overall concept of flora and fauna as natural resources.
D. Exhaustible: This refers to resources that can be used up or depleted over time, such as groundwater or forests. Flora and fauna can be impacted by human activities and face threats of extinction, but they are not considered exhaustible resources.
Based on the explanations above, the correct answer is A. Renewable. While not all aspects of flora and fauna are renewable, the overall category encompasses living organisms that have the ability to reproduce and replenish themselves, making them an important natural resource.

Endemic Species
- Endemic species are species that are confined to a specific geographic area or region.
- They are found only in that particular area and are not naturally found anywhere else in the world.
- These species have evolved and adapted to the specific environmental conditions of their restricted habitat.
- Endemism can occur at various scales, from small islands to mountain ranges or even specific ecosystems.
- The restricted range of endemic species makes them vulnerable to habitat loss, fragmentation, and other threats.
- Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these species and their unique habitats.
- Examples of endemic species include the Galapagos tortoise, Komodo dragon, and the Hawaiian honeycreeper.
- The term "endemic" is derived from the Greek word "endēmos," meaning "native" or "belonging to a particular people or country."
- Endemic species play a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance and biodiversity of their respective habitats.

Biosphere Reserve
A large protected area, set aside for conservation of wildlife, plants and animal species and the traditional life of the tribals living there, is termed as a Biosphere Reserve.
Explanation:
A Biosphere Reserve is an area that is designated and managed to promote conservation of biodiversity and its sustainable use. It encompasses three main zones:
1. Core Zone: This is the central area of the reserve that is strictly protected and serves as a reference area for scientific research and monitoring. Human activities are minimal or restricted in this zone.
2. Buffer Zone: This zone surrounds the core area and acts as a transition zone between the core and the outermost zone. It allows for limited human activities, such as sustainable use of resources and traditional practices.
3. Transition Zone: This is the outermost zone of the biosphere reserve where sustainable development practices are encouraged. Local communities are actively involved in conservation efforts and are supported in their traditional livelihoods.
Key features of a Biosphere Reserve include:
- Conservation of biodiversity: Biosphere Reserves aim to protect and conserve the diverse range of plant and animal species found within their boundaries.
- Sustainable use of resources: These reserves promote the sustainable use of natural resources, ensuring that local communities benefit while maintaining ecological balance.
- Traditional knowledge and cultural preservation: Biosphere Reserves recognize and support the traditional knowledge and cultural practices of indigenous communities living within their boundaries.
- Research and education: These reserves serve as important sites for scientific research and provide educational opportunities to raise awareness about biodiversity conservation.
Overall, Biosphere Reserves play a crucial role in conserving natural ecosystems, protecting endangered species, and preserving the cultural heritage of local communities.

Answer: D. Sariska National Park
Explanation:
The National Park located in Rajasthan is Sariska National Park. Here are some key details about Sariska National Park:
- Location: Sariska National Park is located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, India.
- Distance: It is situated around 107 kilometers from Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan.
- Area: The park covers an area of approximately 866 square kilometers.
- Tiger Reserve: Sariska National Park is also a tiger reserve, aiming to protect and conserve the Bengal tigers.
- Wildlife: The park is home to various species of animals, including tigers, leopards, hyenas, jackals, sambar deer, chital deer, wild boars, and many more.
- Bird species: Sariska National Park is also known for its diverse bird population, with over 200 species of birds found in the park.
- Vegetation: The park consists of dry deciduous forests, grasslands, rocky landscapes, and hilly terrains.
- Historical significance: The area surrounding Sariska National Park has historical importance, with the presence of ancient temples, forts, and ruins of medieval structures.
Visiting Sariska National Park provides an opportunity to witness the beauty of nature, observe wildlife, and explore the historical heritage of the region.

Animals that begin to die, as they cannot adjust themselves to environmental changes, resulting in their population becoming very small, are called as endangered.

Explanation:

When animals are unable to adapt to changes in their environment, they may face various threats to their survival, such as loss of habitat, pollution, or climate change. As a result, their population starts declining, and if the decline continues, they may become endangered. Here is a detailed explanation of the terms mentioned:

1. Extinct: Refers to a species that no longer exists on Earth. When a species is extinct, it means that every individual of that species has died.

2. Endangered: Describes a species that is at risk of becoming extinct in the near future. The population of endangered species is small, and they face significant threats to their survival.

3. Critically Endangered: This term is used to classify species that are at an extremely high risk of extinction. They have a very small population, and immediate conservation efforts are required to prevent their extinction.

4. Vulnerable: Refers to species that are at a relatively lower risk compared to endangered or critically endangered species. However, they still face threats that may lead to their decline if not addressed.

Based on the given information, the correct answer is endangered (B) as it describes animals that cannot adjust to environmental changes and have a small population.

Conservation of Forests

Forests can be conserved by:

• Planned harvesting of trees: This involves carefully managing the process of cutting down trees to ensure sustainable timber production while minimizing the impact on the forest ecosystem.


• Afforestation and control of overgrazing: Afforestation refers to the process of establishing new forests in areas where they did not previously exist. This helps to increase the overall forest cover and preserve biodiversity. Additionally, controlling overgrazing by implementing proper grazing management practices prevents the degradation of forested areas.


• Protection from fire, pests, and insects: Implementing measures to prevent and control forest fires, such as creating firebreaks and conducting regular monitoring, helps to protect the forest ecosystem. Additionally, implementing pest and insect control measures, such as the use of biological controls or targeted pesticide application, can help prevent the destruction of forests by these organisms.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D: all of these.

By adopting these conservation practices, we can ensure the sustainable use and preservation of forests for future generations. Forests play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, regulating the climate, providing ecosystem services, and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people. It is essential to balance the economic benefits derived from forests with their long-term conservation to achieve sustainable development.

Conserving Wildlife:

Wildlife conservation is crucial to preserving the biodiversity and ecological balance of our planet. There are several ways in which wildlife can be conserved:

• Habitat Preservation: Protecting and preserving natural habitats is essential for wildlife conservation. This involves conserving forests, wetlands, grasslands, and other ecosystems that serve as homes for various species. It includes:




• Preventing deforestation and habitat destruction


• Creating protected areas such as national parks and reserves


• Implementing land-use planning to minimize human encroachment





• Building Wildlife Sanctuaries: Establishing wildlife sanctuaries provides safe havens for endangered and vulnerable species. These areas are protected from hunting, poaching, and other human activities that can harm wildlife. Wildlife sanctuaries also promote breeding and population growth for species at risk.



• Implementing Hunting Regulations: Regulating hunting practices is necessary to ensure sustainable wildlife management. Hunting regulations can help prevent overhunting and illegal wildlife trade. It includes:




• Setting hunting seasons and bag limits


• Enforcing strict penalties for illegal hunting and poaching


• Promoting responsible hunting practices

In conclusion: Wildlife conservation requires a combination of habitat preservation, building wildlife sanctuaries, and implementing hunting regulations. These measures help protect wildlife and ensure the survival of diverse species for future generations.

The wide range of different animal species, plants, grass, and birds in an area constitute the biodiversity of that area. Let's break down the answer into heading and HTML bullet points to provide a detailed solution:
Biodiversity:
- Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms (both plant and animal species) present in a particular ecosystem or on Earth as a whole.
- It includes the diversity of genes, species, and ecosystems.
- Biodiversity is crucial for the functioning of ecosystems and provides numerous ecosystem services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and water purification.
- It contributes to the stability and resilience of ecosystems, making them more resistant to environmental changes.
Flora and Fauna:
- Flora refers to the plant life or vegetation present in a particular area.
- Fauna refers to the animal life or the collection of animal species found in a specific region.
- Together, flora and fauna represent the different species of plants and animals in an area.
- The presence of diverse flora and fauna indicates a healthy and thriving ecosystem.
Biosphere:
- The biosphere refers to the global sum of all ecosystems on Earth, including all living organisms, their interactions, and their environments.
- It encompasses all the different habitats and ecosystems where biodiversity exists.
- The biosphere is composed of various biomes, such as forests, grasslands, deserts, oceans, and freshwater systems, each with its own unique flora and fauna.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the wide range of different animal species, plants, grass, and birds in an area constitute both biodiversity and the flora and fauna of that area. Biodiversity is essential for the sustainability and functioning of ecosystems, while the presence of diverse flora and fauna indicates a healthy and thriving ecosystem. The biosphere encompasses all the different habitats and ecosystems on Earth, where biodiversity exists.

Illegal hunting of animals is commonly referred to as poaching. Poaching is a serious issue that involves the illegal hunting, capturing, or killing of wildlife, often for their valuable body parts or for sport. Below are the reasons why the correct answer is option b:
1. Definition of poaching: Poaching specifically refers to the illegal hunting or capturing of wildlife, usually for commercial gain or personal satisfaction, without permission from authorities.
2. Illegal activity: Poaching is considered illegal in most countries and is punishable by law. It is a crime that disrupts ecosystems, threatens endangered species, and undermines conservation efforts.
3. Impact on wildlife: Poaching has devastating consequences for wildlife populations. It can lead to the decline or extinction of certain species, disrupt ecosystems, and upset the balance of nature.
4. Driven by demand: Poaching is often driven by the demand for wildlife products, such as ivory, rhino horns, tiger bones, and exotic animal skins. These products are highly sought after in illegal black markets.
5. Conservation efforts: Governments, organizations, and individuals work together to combat poaching through various conservation initiatives, including wildlife protection laws, anti-poaching patrols, and educational campaigns.
6. Alternative livelihoods: To tackle poaching effectively, it is important to address the underlying factors that drive individuals to engage in illegal hunting. Providing alternative livelihoods, such as sustainable tourism or community-based conservation programs, can help reduce the demand for poaching.
In conclusion, the term used to describe the illegal hunting of animals is poaching. It is a serious crime with significant impacts on wildlife populations and ecosystems. Efforts are being made globally to combat poaching and protect endangered species.

IUCN stands for International Union for Conservation of Natural Resources.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global organization dedicated to conserving nature and biodiversity. It is the world's largest and most diverse environmental network, with over 1,400 member organizations and government agencies.
Key Points:
- IUCN's primary goal is to promote the sustainable use and conservation of natural resources.
- It works towards achieving this goal through research, analysis, field projects, and policy development.
- The organization provides scientific expertise and advice to governments, businesses, and communities to help them make informed decisions regarding conservation and sustainable development.
- IUCN also plays a crucial role in identifying and assessing the conservation status of species, ecosystems, and habitats through its Red List of Threatened Species.
- The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, indigenous peoples, and local communities, to implement conservation initiatives and promote environmental sustainability.
- IUCN focuses on addressing global environmental challenges such as climate change, deforestation, habitat loss, pollution, and overexploitation of natural resources.
- The organization advocates for the integration of conservation principles into national and international policies, laws, and practices.
- IUCN's work spans various fields, including biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, sustainable development, environmental governance, and nature-based solutions.
- The organization also hosts the World Conservation Congress, a global forum that brings together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss and address pressing environmental issues.
In conclusion, IUCN, or the International Union for Conservation of Natural Resources, is a global organization dedicated to conserving nature and promoting sustainable development. It plays a crucial role in research, policy development, and advocacy to ensure the protection and wise use of natural resources for future generations.

Wild Animals Listed in the Red Data Book in India:
- Blackbuck
- Tiger
- Leopard
Wild Animal not listed in the Red Data Book in India:
- Flying squirrel

The organization that maintains a Red List is the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The IUCN is a global organization that focuses on the conservation of nature and sustainable use of natural resources. One of their key initiatives is the development and maintenance of the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

The IUCN Red List is a comprehensive inventory of the conservation status of plant and animal species around the world. It assesses the extinction risk of various species based on a set of criteria, including population size, habitat quality, and the presence of threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and overexploitation.

The Red List categorizes species into different categories, ranging from "Least Concern" to "Extinct," with various levels of threat in between. This information is crucial for understanding the status of biodiversity and prioritizing conservation efforts.

The IUCN regularly updates and publishes the Red List, providing valuable information for policymakers, conservationists, and researchers. The organization works closely with experts from around the world to gather data, assess species, and ensure the accuracy and reliability of the Red List.

By maintaining the Red List, the IUCN plays a vital role in raising awareness about species at risk and guiding conservation actions to protect biodiversity on a global scale.