__________ is not generally seen in biodiversity hotspots.a)Endemismb)...
Understanding Biodiversity Hotspots
Biodiversity hotspots are regions that are both rich in species diversity and significantly threatened by human activities. These areas are characterized by high levels of endemism and species richness but face considerable loss of biodiversity.
Key Characteristics of Biodiversity Hotspots:
- Endemism:
Endemic species are those that are not found anywhere else in the world. Biodiversity hotspots typically have a high number of endemic species due to their unique ecosystems.
- Species Richness:
These regions often contain a large variety of species, including both flora and fauna, making them vital for ecological health.
- Loss of Diversity:
Biodiversity hotspots are under threat from habitat destruction, climate change, and other anthropogenic factors, leading to a significant loss of species and genetic diversity.
Why Lesser Interspecific Competition is Not Generally Seen:
In biodiversity hotspots, interspecific competition—the competition between different species for the same resources—is often prevalent due to:
- High Species Density:
The abundance of species leads to competition for food, space, and other resources.
- Diverse Ecological Niches:
While there may be many species, they occupy different ecological niches which can still lead to competition within and between species.
- Impact of Human Activity:
Habitat degradation can force species to compete more intensely for limited resources, contrary to having lesser competition.
In conclusion, option 'D'—lesser interspecific competition—is not generally found in biodiversity hotspots because these regions are characterized by high species density and competition for resources.