Worksheet Solutions: Biodiversity and Conservation | Geography Class 11 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

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Q1: Biodiversity is a combination of two words, "Bio" meaning ______ and "diversity" meaning ______.
Ans: life, variety
Biodiversity is the variety of life forms on Earth.

Q2: Genetic biodiversity refers to the variation of ______ within species.
Ans: genes
Genetic biodiversity relates to the diversity of genes within a particular species.

Q3: Species diversity relates to the number of species in a defined area and can be measured through its ______, ______, and ______.
Ans: richness, abundance, and types
Species diversity considers the variety of species in a specific region, including their numbers and different types.

Q4: Areas rich in species diversity are often called ______.
Ans: hotspots
Hotspots are regions with exceptionally high species diversity.

Q5: Biodiversity has contributed to the development of human ______ and human communities have played a role in shaping the diversity of nature.
Ans: culture
Biodiversity has influenced human culture through its impact on art, traditions, and knowledge.

Q6: The economic role of biodiversity includes the importance of 'crop diversity,' also known as ______.
Ans: agro-biodiversity
Crop diversity, or agro-biodiversity, is crucial for agriculture and food production.

Q7: The International Union of Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) classifies threatened species into ______ categories.
Ans:  three
IUCN categorizes species as Endangered, Vulnerable, or Rare based on their conservation status.

Q8: Endangered species are those in danger of ______.
Ans: extinction
Endangered species face a high risk of becoming extinct.

Q9: Biodiversity conservation efforts require the involvement and cooperation of ______ and ______.
Ans: local communities and individuals
Local communities and individuals play a significant role in conserving biodiversity through sustainable practices.

Q10: The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 in India led to the establishment of ______ and ______.
Ans: national parks and sanctuaries
This legislation in India created protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, to conserve wildlife and their habitats.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: Genetic diversity is essential for a healthy breeding population of species.
Reason: Genetic diversity results from the differences in physical characteristics among species.
(a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (b)
Genetic diversity is crucial for healthy breeding populations, but it is primarily related to genetic variations within species, not physical differences among species.

Q2: Assertion: Biodiversity plays ecological, economic, and scientific roles.
Reason: Economic role of biodiversity includes the manufacture of food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products.
(a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (a)
 Biodiversity indeed plays ecological, economic, and scientific roles, and the economic role involves the use of biodiversity for various products.

Q3: Assertion: Conservation of biodiversity requires the involvement and cooperation of local communities and individuals.
Reason: The critical problem in conservation is the continuation of the process.
(a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The involvement of local communities and individuals is essential in conservation, and the critical problem in conservation is indeed the continuation of the process.

Q4: Assertion: The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, in India led to the establishment of national parks and sanctuaries.
Reason: These establishments aim to regulate international trade in wild plants and animals.
(a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (b)
The Wild Life (Protection) Act led to the establishment of protected areas, but its primary purpose was domestic wildlife conservation.

Q5: Assertion: Hotspots are defined according to their vegetation.
Reason: In Madagascar, about 85 per cent of the plants and animals are found elsewhere in the world.
(a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (a)
Hotspots are defined based on their unique vegetation, and Madagascar's high endemism supports this assertion.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Define biodiversity.
Ans: Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms present in a particular ecosystem, including plants, animals, microorganisms, and their interactions with their environment.

Q2: Explain genetic biodiversity.
Ans: Genetic biodiversity refers to the variety of genes within a species. It encompasses the genetic variations and differences that exist among individuals of the same species.

Q3: Define species diversity.
Ans: Species diversity refers to the variety of different species present in a given area or ecosystem. It takes into account the number of species and their relative abundance.

Q4: What are hotspots of biodiversity?
Ans: Hotspots of biodiversity are regions that have a high concentration of endemic species (species found nowhere else) and are under threat from human activities. These areas are considered to be of significant conservation value.

Q5: List the three levels at which biodiversity can be discussed.
Ans: Biodiversity can be discussed at three levels: genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity.

Q6: Give an example of an endangered species.
Ans: One example of an endangered species is the Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), found in China. Its population has declined due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Q7: Explain the economic role of biodiversity.
Ans: Biodiversity has economic importance as it provides various ecosystem services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, water purification, and climate regulation. These services have direct and indirect economic benefits, contributing to sectors like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and more.

Q8: What is the significance of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972?
Ans: The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is a legislation in India that provides legal protection to wildlife and their habitats. It aims to prevent hunting, poaching, and illegal trade of wildlife, promoting their conservation and sustainable use.

Q9: What are mega diversity centers?
Ans: Mega diversity centers are regions or countries that exhibit exceptionally high levels of biodiversity. These areas are characterized by a large number of species and high endemism.

Q10: Why is biodiversity conservation important for human existence?
Ans: Biodiversity conservation is important for human existence as it provides essential ecosystem services, including clean air and water, pollination for food production, climate regulation, and natural resources. It also supports livelihoods, cultural values, and overall ecological balance.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Discuss the ecological role of biodiversity.
Ans: Biodiversity plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance and functioning of ecosystems. It supports various ecological processes such as nutrient cycling, pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control. Biodiversity ensures the stability and resilience of ecosystems, making them more resistant to environmental disturbances. It also provides numerous ecosystem services that are vital for human well-being, including clean air and water, climate regulation, and food production.

Q2: Explain the concept of agro-biodiversity and its importance.
Ans: Agro-biodiversity refers to the variety of plant and animal species that are cultivated and managed in agricultural systems. It includes different crop varieties, livestock breeds, and other organisms in agroecosystems. Agro-biodiversity is important for sustainable agriculture as it enhances the resilience of crops and livestock to pests, diseases, and environmental changes. It also provides a diverse range of food sources, ensures genetic resources for future breeding, and supports cultural and traditional practices related to agriculture.

Q3: Describe the categories of threatened species according to IUCN.
Ans: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies threatened species into three categories: Critically Endangered, Endangered, and Vulnerable. Critically Endangered species are at an extremely high risk of extinction. Endangered species are at a very high risk, and Vulnerable species are at a high risk of extinction. These categories are based on factors such as population size, habitat loss, and declining trends in population.

Q4: How does the loss of biodiversity affect ecosystems?
Ans: The loss of biodiversity has significant impacts on ecosystems. It disrupts ecological processes, reduces ecosystem resilience, and can lead to the collapse of entire ecosystems. The loss of key species can disrupt food chains and affect the abundance and distribution of other species. It can also result in the proliferation of certain species, leading to imbalances and negative cascading effects. Additionally, the loss of biodiversity reduces the ability of ecosystems to provide essential services, such as water purification and climate regulation.

Q5: Discuss the role of local communities and individuals in biodiversity conservation.
Ans: Local communities and individuals play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation. They possess traditional knowledge and practices that have been developed over generations and are often tailored to specific ecosystems. Local communities are often the guardians of biodiversity-rich areas and can contribute to the sustainable management of natural resources. Individuals can also make a difference through their choices and actions, such as supporting sustainable products, practicing responsible tourism, and engaging in conservation initiatives.

Q6: Explain the importance of international trade regulation in biodiversity conservation.
Ans: International trade regulation is important in biodiversity conservation as it helps prevent the unsustainable exploitation of species and ecosystems. It ensures that trade in wildlife, plants, and their products is legal, sustainable, and does not contribute to the decline of species. International agreements, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), regulate the trade of endangered species and their derivatives, promoting conservation efforts and preventing illegal trade.

Q7: What are the key steps suggested by the world conservation strategy for biodiversity conservation?
Ans: The World Conservation Strategy suggests three key steps for biodiversity conservation: preserving essential ecological processes and life-supporting systems, maintaining genetic diversity, and ensuring the sustainable utilization of species and ecosystems. These steps emphasize the importance of protecting critical habitats, preventing the extinction of species, and promoting sustainable practices in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and other sectors. The strategy also highlights the need for international cooperation and the involvement of local communities in conservation efforts.

Q8: Explain the concept of hotspots and their significance in biodiversity conservation.
Ans: Hotspots refer to regions with exceptionally high levels of biodiversity and high rates of habitat loss. These areas are characterized by a large number of endemic species, which are found nowhere else. Hotspots are significant in biodiversity conservation because they represent irreplaceable reservoirs of unique and threatened species. By focusing conservation efforts on these hotspots, it is possible to protect a large number of species with relatively limited resources. Preserving hotspots also helps safeguard important ecological processes and maintain the overall health of ecosystems.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Discuss the various factors that contribute to the loss of biodiversity, including human activities and natural calamities.
Ans: There are several factors that contribute to the loss of biodiversity, including both human activities and natural calamities.
Let's discuss them in detail:

• Habitat Destruction: One of the primary reasons for the loss of biodiversity is the destruction and degradation of habitats. This includes deforestation, urbanization, land conversion for agriculture, mining, and infrastructure development. These activities result in the loss of crucial habitats for many species, leading to their decline or extinction.
• Pollution: Pollution, whether it be air, water, or soil pollution, has detrimental effects on biodiversity. Contamination from chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial waste can cause direct harm to organisms, disrupt ecosystems, and degrade habitats. Polluted environments become unsuitable for many species to survive and reproduce.
• Overexploitation: Unsustainable exploitation of natural resources such as overfishing, illegal hunting, and logging can lead to the decline of species and their habitats. When species are harvested or extracted beyond their reproductive capacity, it disrupts the balance within ecosystems and can result in the extinction of certain species.
• Invasive Species: Introduction of non-native species into new environments can have devastating effects on native biodiversity. Invasive species often outcompete native species for resources, prey on native species, or introduce diseases that the native species are not adapted to. This disrupts the natural balance of ecosystems and can lead to the loss of native species.
• Climate Change: The changing climate patterns pose a significant threat to biodiversity. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, changing precipitation patterns, and sea-level rise can impact ecosystems and species' ability to adapt and survive. Climate change alters habitats, disrupts migration patterns, and affects the availability of food and resources, leading to biodiversity loss.
• Natural Calamities: Natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, wildfires, and volcanic eruptions can cause significant loss of biodiversity. These events can result in the destruction of habitats, direct mortality of organisms, and disruption of ecosystems. While natural calamities are a natural part of the Earth's processes, their frequency and intensity can be exacerbated by human-induced climate change.
  
  

Q2: Describe the roles of genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity in biodiversity.
Ans: Biodiversity encompasses three main levels: genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity.
Let's explore the roles of each in more detail:

• Genetic Diversity: Genetic diversity refers to the variation of genes within a species. It is crucial for the long-term survival and adaptation of populations. Genetic diversity allows species to adapt to changing environments, resist diseases, and respond to natural selection. It provides the raw material for evolution and enables species to evolve and persist over time. Without genetic diversity, species become more vulnerable to extinction as they lack the ability to adapt to changing conditions.
• Species Diversity: Species diversity refers to the variety and abundance of different species within a particular area or ecosystem. It is a measure of the number of species present in an ecosystem and their relative abundance. Species diversity is essential for ecosystem stability and functioning. Each species plays a unique role in the ecosystem, contributing to nutrient cycling, pollination, seed dispersal, and maintaining ecological balance. Higher species diversity also enhances ecosystem resilience and productivity, making it more resistant to disturbances.
• Ecosystem Diversity: Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of ecosystems present in a region or on the planet. It encompasses different types of habitats, such as forests, wetlands, grasslands, coral reefs, and deserts. Ecosystem diversity is vital for maintaining ecological processes, such as nutrient cycling, water purification, carbon sequestration, and climate regulation. Each ecosystem provides specific services and benefits to humans, including food production, clean water, climate regulation, and cultural values.

Overall, genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity are interconnected and mutually dependent. They contribute to the stability and functioning of ecosystems, support human well-being, and play a crucial role in the sustainability of our planet.

Q3: Elaborate on the importance of biodiversity conservation for human existence, and discuss the role of the Convention on Biodiversity.
Ans: Biodiversity conservation is of paramount importance for human existence and well-being.
Here are some key reasons why biodiversity conservation is crucial:

• Ecosystem Services: Biodiversity provides a wide range of ecosystem services that are essential for human survival and development. These include the provision of food, clean water, clean air, climate regulation, soil fertility, natural resource availability, and waste decomposition. Without functioning ecosystems and diverse species, these services would be compromised, leading to detrimental effects on human health, livelihoods, and overall quality of life.
• Medicinal Resources: Many medicines and pharmaceuticals are derived from natural sources, particularly plants and microorganisms. Biodiversity is a vast repository of potential medicinal resources, with countless species yet to be discovered and studied. Conservation of biodiversity ensures the preservation of these valuable resources, which can be used to develop new drugs and treatments for various diseases.
• Economic Benefits: Biodiversity plays a significant role in supporting economies at both local and global levels. Many industries such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries, tourism, and biotechnology rely on biodiversity and ecosystem services for their operations. Conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity can contribute to economic growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and the overall well-being of communities.
• Cultural and Aesthetic Value: Biodiversity holds immense cultural and aesthetic value. It is deeply intertwined with the traditions, beliefs, and practices of indigenous communities and various cultures around the world. Biodiversity-rich areas, such as national parks, wildlife reserves, and natural landscapes, also attract tourists and provide recreational opportunities, enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities.

The Convention on Biodiversity (CBD) is an international treaty established in 1992 with the aim of conserving biodiversity, ensuring its sustainable use, and promoting fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from genetic resources. The CBD provides a framework for countries to develop national strategies, policies, and action plans for biodiversity conservation. It facilitates international cooperation, knowledge sharing, and capacity building in biodiversity-related issues. The CBD also emphasizes the involvement of local communities and indigenous peoples in decision-making processes, recognizing their traditional knowledge and practices in biodiversity conservation. It plays a crucial role in promoting global efforts to protect and sustainably manage biodiversity for the benefit of present and future generations.

Q4: Provide an overview of the challenges and strategies for biodiversity conservation, emphasizing the involvement of local communities and the significance of mega diversity centers.
Ans: Biodiversity conservation faces numerous challenges, but there are also strategies that can be employed to address them.
Here is an overview of the challenges and strategies, with an emphasis on the involvement of local communities and the significance of mega diversity centers:

• Challenges:
  • Habitat Loss and Fragmentation: The destruction and fragmentation of habitats pose a significant threat to biodiversity. Protecting and restoring habitats is crucial for conserving species and ecosystems.
  • Overexploitation and Illegal Wildlife Trade: Unsustainable harvesting and trade of wildlife, including poaching and illegal logging, contribute to the decline and extinction of species. Strengthening law enforcement and implementing sustainable practices are essential.
  • Climate Change: The impacts of climate change on biodiversity are significant. Mitigation and adaptation strategies, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing ecosystem resilience, are necessary.
  • Lack of Awareness and Education: Many people are unaware of the importance of biodiversity and the need for its conservation. Raising awareness, promoting education, and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship are vital.
• Strategies:
  • Protected Areas and Reserves: Establishing protected areas, such as national parks, wildlife reserves, and marine protected areas, is a fundamental strategy for conserving biodiversity. These areas provide safe havens for species, protect habitats, and enable sustainable use of natural resources.
  • Sustainable Land and Resource Management: Promoting sustainable agricultural practices, responsible forestry, and fisheries management can help mitigate the negative impacts of human activities on biodiversity.
  • Involvement of Local Communities: Engaging local communities in biodiversity conservation is crucial. Recognizing their rights, traditional knowledge, and practices can lead to more effective and sustainable conservation initiatives.
  • International Cooperation and Funding: Collaboration among nations, organizations, and stakeholders is essential for global biodiversity conservation. Adequate funding and support for conservation projects are necessary to achieve significant results.
  • Mega Diversity Centers: Mega diversity centers, regions with exceptionally high biodiversity, play a crucial role in global conservation efforts. These areas, such as the Amazon rainforest, Coral Triangle, and African savannas, require special attention and conservation measures due to their high species richness.

In conclusion, biodiversity conservation requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the challenges while involving local communities and recognizing the significance of mega diversity centers. By implementing sustainable practices, raising awareness, and promoting international cooperation, we can strive towards the preservation and sustainable use of Earth's rich biodiversity.