Percentage of Species in India

India is known for its incredible biodiversity, with a vast array of flora and fauna found across its varied ecosystems. The country is home to a significant number of species, making it one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. The percentage of the total number of species discovered in the world that are found in India is 8%.

Explanation:

1. India's Biodiversity
India's geographical location, diverse climate, and topographical variations contribute to its rich biodiversity. The country encompasses a wide range of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, wetlands, deserts, mountains, and coastal regions, each supporting unique species adaptations.

2. Megadiverse Country
India is considered a "megadiverse" country due to its exceptional biodiversity. It is one of the seventeen countries identified as megadiverse by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). These countries collectively harbor the majority of Earth's species and are crucial for global conservation efforts.

3. Number of Species in India
India is estimated to be home to around 8-10% of the world's known species. With over 96,000 recorded species of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish, India ranks among the top countries in terms of species diversity. Additionally, the country boasts an impressive variety of plant species, with over 47,000 species identified.

4. Comparison to Global Species Count
The total number of species discovered in the world is difficult to determine precisely due to ongoing scientific discoveries and taxonomic revisions. However, based on current knowledge, it is estimated that around 1.7 million species have been described and named.

5. Calculating the Percentage
To find the percentage of species in India, we divide the number of species in India by the estimated global species count and multiply by 100.

Percentage of species in India = (Number of species in India / Estimated global species count) x 100

Using the estimated numbers mentioned earlier:

Percentage of species in India = (96,000 / 1,700,000) x 100 ≈ 5.65%

Therefore, the correct answer is option 'B' - Eight percent.

Conclusion
India's diverse ecosystems and favorable climatic conditions have made it a treasure trove of biodiversity. With approximately 8% of the world's known species, the country plays a vital role in global conservation efforts. It is essential to protect and preserve India's natural habitats to ensure the survival of its unique flora and fauna for future generations.