According to Norman Myers, a renowned environmentalist and biodiversity expert, there are 34 hotspots of biodiversity in the world. These hotspots are areas that contain exceptional concentrations of endemic species and are under significant threat due to human activities.

The concept of biodiversity hotspots was first introduced by Myers in a scientific paper published in 1988. He defined these hotspots as regions that meet two key criteria: they must have at least 1,500 species of vascular plants as endemics, and they must have lost at least 70% of their original habitat.

To identify these hotspots, Myers and his team analyzed data on species distributions and habitat loss from around the world. They focused on areas with high levels of species endemism and high levels of habitat loss, as these are the areas that are most in need of conservation efforts.

The 34 hotspots identified by Myers are spread across the globe and include regions such as the Western Ghats and Sri Lanka, the Mediterranean Basin, the Caribbean Islands, the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, and the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa, among others.

These hotspots are not only important for their high levels of biodiversity but also for the ecosystem services they provide. They support the livelihoods of millions of people by providing clean water, food, and other resources. They also play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by storing carbon and regulating the climate.

Conservation efforts in these hotspots are essential to preserve the unique species and ecosystems found there. By protecting these areas, we can safeguard biodiversity and ensure the long-term health and resilience of our planet.

In conclusion, Norman Myers has identified 34 hotspots of biodiversity in the world. These hotspots are areas that are rich in endemic species and face significant threats. Conservation efforts in these areas are crucial for preserving biodiversity and maintaining the health of our planet.