Assertion: The pattern of species diversity on earth is not uniformly ...
The pattern of species diversity on earth is not uniformly distributed. Species variation is generally highest in the tropics and decreases towards the poles due to variation in temperature.
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Assertion: The pattern of species diversity on earth is not uniformly ...
Assertion: The pattern of species diversity on earth is not uniformly distributed.
Reason: Species variation is generally highest in the tropics and decreases towards the poles.
The correct answer is option 'C', that is, both the assertion and the reason are correct.
Explanation:
- The assertion states that the pattern of species diversity on earth is not uniformly distributed. In other words, species diversity varies across different regions of the planet.
- The reason given for this assertion is that species variation is generally highest in the tropics and decreases towards the poles. This means that the number of species found in tropical regions is higher compared to polar regions.
Evidence supporting the assertion:
1. Biodiversity hotspots: The tropics, particularly areas such as the Amazon Rainforest, Congo Basin, and Southeast Asia, are known as biodiversity hotspots. These regions have a high concentration of species and are characterized by diverse ecosystems.
2. Species richness gradients: Studies have shown that species richness tends to decrease as one moves away from the equator towards the poles. This is known as a latitudinal gradient in species richness.
3. Species-area relationship: The number of species in an area is often positively correlated with the size of the area. Since the tropics cover a larger area compared to polar regions, they have a higher number of species.
Factors contributing to higher species diversity in the tropics:
1. Climate: The warm and stable climate in the tropics provides favorable conditions for a wide range of species to thrive.
2. Habitat complexity: Tropical ecosystems, such as rainforests, are structurally complex, providing a variety of niches and habitats for different species.
3. Evolutionary history: The tropics have been stable and relatively undisturbed for longer periods, allowing for greater speciation and evolutionary diversification.
Reason for the assertion:
The reason provided in the question correctly explains the pattern of species diversity on earth. The higher species variation in the tropics can be attributed to a combination of factors such as climate, habitat complexity, and evolutionary history. As one moves towards the poles, the conditions become less favorable for many species, resulting in lower species diversity.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the pattern of species diversity on earth is not uniformly distributed. The assertion is supported by evidence such as biodiversity hotspots, species richness gradients, and the species-area relationship. The reason given for the assertion, which states that species variation is generally highest in the tropics and decreases towards the poles, is also correct.