India is divided into 10 biogeographical regions. Varying physical con...
Species diversity among vertebrates varies greatly across different groups, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The diversity can be measured in terms of the number of species within each group and their distribution across different habitats and geographical areas.
- 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.
Considering the numbers and the factors affecting their diversity, amphibians often represent the group with the minimum species diversity among vertebrates, especially when considering their vulnerability to environmental changes, habitat loss, and a higher rate of decline compared to birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Therefore, the correct answer is: Amphibians
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India is divided into 10 biogeographical regions. Varying physical con...
Explanation:
Species Diversity among Vertebrates:
Species diversity refers to the variety of different species present in a particular area or ecosystem. Vertebrates are a group of animals that possess a backbone or spinal column. In India, vertebrates include birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Minimum Species Diversity:
Among the different groups of vertebrates, mammals represent the minimum species diversity in India. This means that the number of different mammal species found in India is comparatively lower than the number of bird, reptile, and amphibian species.
Reasons for Minimum Species Diversity in Mammals:
There are several reasons for the relatively lower species diversity in mammals in India:
1. Habitat Fragmentation: India has experienced significant habitat fragmentation due to factors such as deforestation, urbanization, and industrialization. This fragmentation has resulted in the loss of natural habitats and disruption of ecological processes, negatively impacting mammal populations.
2. Human Activities: Human activities, such as hunting, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade, have severely affected mammal populations in India. Many mammal species are targeted for their fur, meat, or body parts, leading to population decline and reduced species diversity.
3. Competition with Humans: Mammals often compete with humans for resources such as food, water, and space. As human populations continue to grow, the competition intensifies, resulting in habitat degradation and reduced availability of resources for mammal species.
4. Sensitivity to Environmental Changes: Mammals, especially large mammals, are often more sensitive to environmental changes compared to other vertebrate groups. They require larger territories, specific habitat conditions, and are more susceptible to disturbances. These factors contribute to their lower species diversity compared to birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
In conclusion, among the different groups of vertebrates in India, mammals represent the minimum species diversity. This is primarily due to habitat fragmentation, human activities, competition with humans, and their sensitivity to environmental changes. Understanding and conserving mammal species is crucial for maintaining the overall biodiversity and ecological balance in India.
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