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1) Deforestation : The clearing of forests and using the land for other purposes is called deforestation.

 The causes for deforestation are:

 i) Procuring land for cultivation.

 ii) Building houses and factories.

iii) Using wood as fuel or making furniture etc.  The natural causes of deforestation are forest fires and draught.

2) Consequences of deforestation :

The consequences of deforestation are :

i) Increase in the temperature and pollution level on the earth.

ii) Increase in the level of carbon dioxide in the  atmosphere leading to global warming.

iii) Lowering of ground water level.

iv) Disturbs the balance in nature.

v) Decrease in rainfall leading to draught.

vi) Soil erosion and decrease in soil fertility leading to desertification.

vii) Decrease in the water holding capacity of soil leading to   floods. 

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3) Conservation of forest and wildlife:

Forest and wildlife can be conserved by setting up areas like Biosphere reserves Wildlife sanctuaries, National parks, etc.

i) Biosphere reserves are large areas of protected land for conservation of biodiversity and the traditional life of the tribals living there.

ii) National parks are areas reserved for wildlife where they can freely use the habitats and natural resources.

iii) Wildlife sanctuaries are areas where animals are protected from any disturbance to them or their habitat. 

4) Biosphere Reserve:

i) Biosphere reserves are large areas of protected land for conservation of biodiversity and the traditional life of the tribals living there. 

ii) Biodiversity is the variety of plants, animals and microorganisms found in the area. The Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve consists of a National park called Satpura and two wildlife sanctuaries called Bori and Pachmarhi.  

5) Flora and fauna:  

i) Flora are the plants found in a particular area.

ii) Fauna are the animals found in a particular area. Eg: The flora of Pachmarhi consists of sal, teak, wild mango, jamun, silver ferns etc.

The fauna of Pachmarhi consists of wild dog, cheetal, wolf, leopard, blue bull, barking deer etc.

6) Endemic Species: Endemic species are those species of plants and animals found only in a particular area and not found anywhere else. Eg: Sal and wild mango are the endemic flora of  Pachmarhi. Bison, Indian giant squirrel and flying squirrel are the endemic fauna of this area


7) Wildlife Sanctuary: Wildlife sanctuaries are areas where animals are protected from any disturbance to them or their habitat. The killing or capturing of animals in wildlife sanctuary is strictly prohibited.

8) National Park are areas reserved for wildlife where they can freely use the habitats and natural resources. Eg: Satpura National Park is the first Reserve Forest in India.

9) Endangered Animals are those animals whose numbers are diminishing and might face extinction. Eg: Tiger is one of the many animals which are slowly diminishing. To protect the tigers in our country the government launched the Project Tiger to ensure the survival of tiger population.

Dinosaurs have already become extinct. Red Data Books are books which keeps a record of all endangered plants and animals. 

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10) Ecosystem: An ecosystem consists of all the plants, animals and microorganisms living in an area along with the non living components like climate, water, soil etc. 

11) Migration is the movement of animals from its own habitat to some other habitat for a particular time period every year due to climatic changes or for breeding. Birds which fly very long distances to reach another land are called migratory birds.

12) Recycling of paper: About seventeen full grown trees are required to produce one tonne of paper. Paper can be recycled about five to seven times for use. We should save, reuse and recycle paper to save not only trees but also to save the energy, water and chemicals used to make paper.

13) Reforestation: Reforestation is the restocking of destroyed forests by planting new trees. We should plant at least as many trees as we cut. We have already caused a lot of damage to our forests. If we have to regain our green wealth, reforestation is the only option.

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FAQs on Important Definitions - Conservation of Plants & Animals - Class 8

1. What is conservation of plants and animals?
Ans. Conservation of plants and animals refers to the protection and preservation of various plant and animal species to ensure their survival and prevent them from becoming extinct. It involves the management of natural resources, habitats, and ecosystems to maintain a balance between human activities and the well-being of the environment.
2. Why is conservation of plants and animals important?
Ans. Conservation of plants and animals is important for several reasons. It helps in maintaining biodiversity, which is essential for the overall health and sustainability of ecosystems. Conservation also ensures the preservation of genetic diversity, which is crucial for the adaptation and evolution of species. Additionally, it helps in the preservation of natural resources, provides ecological and economic benefits, and contributes to the overall well-being of human society.
3. What are the threats to plants and animals that require conservation?
Ans. There are several threats to plants and animals that necessitate their conservation. These threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation, urbanization, and land-use changes. Pollution, climate change, invasive species, overexploitation, and poaching are also significant threats. Additionally, human activities such as hunting, agriculture, and industrialization contribute to the decline of various plant and animal species.
4. What are the methods used for conservation of plants and animals?
Ans. Several methods are employed for the conservation of plants and animals. These include the establishment of protected areas such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves. Conservation breeding programs, habitat restoration, and afforestation efforts are also important. Public awareness campaigns, legal frameworks, and international agreements play a crucial role in promoting conservation. Additionally, sustainable management practices, research, and monitoring are essential for effective conservation efforts.
5. How can individuals contribute to the conservation of plants and animals?
Ans. Individuals can contribute to the conservation of plants and animals in various ways. They can support and participate in local conservation initiatives, volunteer for wildlife and habitat restoration projects, and raise awareness about the importance of conservation among their communities. Additionally, individuals can make sustainable choices in their daily lives, such as reducing waste, using eco-friendly products, conserving water and energy, and supporting organizations working towards conservation goals.
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