Forest And Wildlife Resources -Olympiad Level MCQ, Class 10 SST - Class 10 MCQ

Major Factors Responsible for Depletion of Forest Resources:
There are several factors contributing to the depletion of forest resources, but the two major factors are:
1. Grazing:
- Uncontrolled grazing by livestock can have a significant impact on forest resources.
- Livestock, such as cattle, goats, and sheep, feed on vegetation and can cause damage to young trees, saplings, and undergrowth.
- Overgrazing can lead to soil erosion, loss of soil fertility, and prevent regeneration of forests.
2. Fuel-wood Collection:
- The collection of fuel-wood for cooking and heating purposes is another significant factor leading to the depletion of forests.
- In many rural areas, fuel-wood is the primary source of energy, and the demand for it is high.
- Indiscriminate and unsustainable collection of fuel-wood can result in deforestation and loss of forest resources.
It is important to note that while mining and flooding can also have negative impacts on forest resources, they are not the major factors responsible for their depletion as mentioned in the options provided.

Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest national park in India and was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park to protect the endangered Bengal tiger. It is located in Nainital district of Uttarakhand and was named after Jim Corbett who played a key role in its establishment.

Endemic species:
Endemic species are those that are native or restricted to a specific geographic region and are not found anywhere else in the world. They evolve in isolation and have unique adaptations to their local environment.
Examples of endemic species:
Among the given options, the example of an endemic species is:
- Mithun: Mithun, also known as the Gayal, is a semi-domesticated bovine species found in the northeastern region of India, particularly in the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. It is considered an endemic species because it is not found in any other part of the world.
Other options mentioned are not endemic species:
- Asiatic elephant: Asiatic elephants are found in various countries across Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar. They are not restricted to a specific geographic region and are not endemic to a particular area.
- Gangetic dolphin: Gangetic dolphins, also known as the Ganges river dolphins, are found in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna river systems in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. While they have a limited distribution range, they are not restricted to a single region and can be found in other parts of the world.
- Asiatic cheetah: Asiatic cheetahs are critically endangered and are currently found only in Iran. While their population is limited and restricted to a specific country, they are not considered endemic as they were historically found in other parts of Asia as well.
Therefore, the correct answer is C: Mithun as it is the example of an endemic species.

Explanation:
To determine which tree is not considered a sacred tree in India, we need to examine the options given and their significance in Indian culture.
Peepal:
- Considered sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
- It is believed to be the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
Neem:
- Considered a sacred tree in India.
- It has medicinal properties and is used in various traditional practices.
Banyan:
- Considered sacred in Hinduism and is often associated with Lord Shiva.
- It is believed to be the resting place of spirits and deities.
Mango:
- Considered a sacred tree in India, particularly in Hinduism.
- The mango tree is associated with fertility and love.
Based on the information provided, the correct answer is B: Neem. The neem tree is not considered a sacred tree in India.

Community famous for protecting the black buck in India:

The community in India that is famous for protecting the black buck is the Bishnois.

Explanation:

The Bishnois are a community in India known for their strong beliefs in environmental conservation and wildlife protection. They follow the teachings of their founder, Guru Jambheshwar, who preached about the importance of protecting nature and wildlife. The Bishnois have been practicing environmental conservation for more than five centuries.

One of the most notable examples of their commitment to wildlife protection is their protection of the black buck, a species of antelope found in the Indian subcontinent. The Bishnois consider the black buck sacred and have strict rules against harming or killing them. They believe in living harmoniously with nature and protecting all forms of life.

The Bishnois are known for their selfless acts to protect the black buck, even at the cost of their own lives. There are numerous stories of Bishnois sacrificing their lives to save black bucks from poachers or other threats. Their efforts have played a significant role in conserving the black buck population in India.

In conclusion, the Bishnois community in India is famous for their dedicated efforts in protecting the black buck and other wildlife species, showcasing their commitment to environmental conservation.

To determine which one of the following is an example of a rare species, let's examine each option:
A: Black Buck
- Black Buck is a species of antelope found mainly in India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
- It is considered a near-threatened species, meaning it is not yet rare but could become so in the future.
- Therefore, it is not an example of a rare species.
B: Blue Sheep
- Blue Sheep, also known as Bharal, is a species of sheep found in the Himalayan region of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.
- It is not considered a rare species and is classified as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
- Therefore, it is not an example of a rare species.
C: Hornbill
- Hornbills are a family of birds found in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and Melanesia.
- Some species of hornbills are indeed rare and endangered, such as the Helmeted Hornbill and the Sulu Hornbill.
- Therefore, the Hornbill is an example of a rare species.
D: Mithun
- Mithun, also known as the Gayal, is a domesticated bovine species found in Northeast India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
- While it may not be as well-known as other bovine species, it is not considered a rare species.
Therefore, the correct answer is C: Hornbill.

The Buxa Tiger Reserve is situated in the state of West Bengal.
Explanation:
- The Buxa Tiger Reserve is a protected area located in the eastern part of India.
- It is situated in the state of West Bengal.
- The reserve is spread over an area of about 760 square kilometers.
- It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various species of animals and plants.
- The reserve is named after the Buxa Fort, which is located within its boundaries.
- The Buxa Tiger Reserve is an important wildlife habitat and serves as a corridor for the movement of animals between India and Bhutan.
- It is also a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering opportunities for trekking and wildlife safari.
- The reserve is known for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers, as well as other species like elephants, leopards, Indian bison, and various species of birds and butterflies.
- The Buxa Tiger Reserve is a significant conservation area in West Bengal and plays a crucial role in preserving the region's natural heritage.

Declaration of Asiatic Cheetah Extinction in India
The Asiatic Cheetah, also known as the Iranian Cheetah, is a critically endangered subspecies of cheetah that was once found in various regions including India. However, it has been declared extinct in India. The exact year of its declaration varies in different sources, but it is generally recognized to have been declared extinct in India in the early 1950s.
Here is a detailed explanation of the timeline leading to the declaration of Asiatic Cheetah extinction in India:
1. Decline in Population:
- The Asiatic Cheetah population in India had been decreasing due to various factors such as habitat loss, hunting, and fragmentation.
- By the mid-20th century, the cheetah population in India had become critically low.
2. Last Sightings:
- The last confirmed sighting of an Asiatic Cheetah in India was reported in 1947 in the Chhattisgarh region.
- After this sighting, there were no further confirmed sightings or evidence of the presence of Asiatic Cheetahs in India.
3. Extinction Declaration:
- Based on the lack of sightings and evidence, wildlife experts and conservationists concluded that the Asiatic Cheetah had become extinct in India.
- The exact year of the declaration varies, with some sources stating 1952 and others suggesting the early 1950s.
It is important to note that while the Asiatic Cheetah is extinct in India, small populations of this subspecies still exist in Iran. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect and increase the population of Asiatic Cheetahs in their remaining range.

India's Percentage of Total Number of Species in the World
India is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. To determine the percentage of total number of species in the world that India possesses, we need to consider the following points:
1. Total Number of Species in the World:
- The total number of species in the world is estimated to be around 8.7 million.

2. Total Number of Species in India:
- India is one of the 17 mega-diverse countries in the world.
- It is estimated that India is home to around 8-10% of the global species.
- Considering the lower estimate of 8%, we can calculate the total number of species in India as follows:
Total number of species in India = 8% of 8.7 million = 0.08 * 8.7 million = 696,000 species.

3. Calculating the Percentage:
- To calculate the percentage of total number of species in the world that India possesses, we can use the following formula:
Percentage = (Total number of species in India / Total number of species in the world) * 100
- Plugging in the values, we get:
Percentage = (696,000 / 8,700,000) * 100
Percentage ≈ 7.99%

4. Answer:
- India has approximately 8% of the total number of species in the world.
- Rounding off, the answer is approximately 8%.
- Therefore, the correct answer is option C: 8.

Species of Fauna Found in Areas Separated by Natural or Geographical Barriers

When an area is separated by natural or geographical barriers, it can lead to the evolution of unique species of fauna. These species are known as endemic species, meaning they are found exclusively in that particular area.

Examples of fauna species that can be found in areas separated by natural or geographical barriers include:

- Birds: Some bird species may be endemic to specific islands or mountain ranges due to isolation caused by barriers such as oceans or high altitudes.
- Mammals: Certain mammals may have evolved separately in isolated areas, such as marsupials in Australia or lemurs in Madagascar.
- Reptiles: Islands can be home to unique reptile species due to their isolation, such as the Galapagos tortoise or Komodo dragon.
- Insects: Insects, such as butterflies or beetles, can also show high levels of endemism in isolated areas.
- Amphibians: Isolated habitats like rainforests or mountain ranges can harbor endemic amphibian species.
- Fish: Bodies of water separated by geographical barriers can lead to the development of unique fish species, such as cichlids in African lakes.
- Invertebrates: Various invertebrate species, including crustaceans, mollusks, and arachnids, can also exhibit endemism in isolated areas.

These species have adapted to their specific environments over time and developed unique characteristics, making them highly specialized and often vulnerable to changes in their habitats. It is important to conserve these endemic species as they play crucial roles in maintaining the ecological balance of their respective ecosystems.

Location of Sunderban National Park

• Sunderban National Park is located in the state of West Bengal.

The Sunderban National Park is a renowned national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in the Indian state of West Bengal. Here are some key details about the location:

• State: West Bengal

The park is situated in the southernmost region of West Bengal and is a part of the Sunderban Delta, which is formed by the convergence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. It is known for its unique and diverse ecosystem, including the mangrove forests and the Royal Bengal Tigers.

It is important to note that the Sunderban region is spread across both India and Bangladesh, with the Sunderban National Park being the Indian part of the larger Sunderban area.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option B: West Bengal.

Explanation:
The movement that is not associated with the protection of trees is Project Tiger.
The other movements mentioned are all related to the protection of trees and the environment:
A. Chipko Movement:
- This movement originated in Uttarakhand, India, in the 1970s.
- It is a grassroots environmental movement that focuses on the conservation and protection of forests.
- The movement is known for its non-violent protests, where people hug trees to prevent them from being cut down.
B. Navdanya Andolan:
- This movement was started by environmental activist Vandana Shiva in India.
- It focuses on promoting biodiversity and organic farming practices.
- The movement aims to protect traditional seeds and advocate for sustainable agricultural practices.
D. Beej Bachao Andolan:
- This movement, also known as the Save Seeds Movement, was initiated by environmentalist Vijay Jardhari.
- It aims to conserve indigenous seeds and promote organic farming.
- The movement emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional farming practices and biodiversity.
Therefore, the movement that is not associated with the protection of trees is C. Project Tiger. Project Tiger is a wildlife conservation initiative in India that specifically focuses on the conservation of tigers and their habitats, rather than the protection of trees.

Bandhavgarh National Park Location

The Bandhavgarh National Park is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India.

• Location: Madhya Pradesh

Here is some additional information about Bandhavgarh National Park:

• About Bandhavgarh National Park: Bandhavgarh National Park is known for its rich biodiversity and is one of the popular tiger reserves in India. It is spread across an area of approximately 450 square kilometers and is located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh.


• Flora and Fauna: The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, deer, wild boars, langurs, and numerous species of birds.


• Tourism: Bandhavgarh National Park attracts a large number of tourists and wildlife enthusiasts who visit to witness the majestic tigers and explore the natural beauty of the park. Safari tours are available for visitors to explore the park and spot wildlife.


• Conservation Efforts: The park is actively involved in conservation efforts to protect the endangered species and their habitats. Various initiatives are taken to ensure the preservation of the park's biodiversity.

Overall, Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh is a significant wildlife destination in India, offering a unique experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary Location:
The Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Rajasthan, India.
Explanation:
Here is a breakdown of the answer in bullet points:
- The Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular wildlife destination in India.
- It is situated in the Alwar district of the state of Rajasthan.
- The sanctuary is located approximately 107 kilometers away from the capital city of Jaipur.
- Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is spread across an area of about 866 square kilometers.
- It is surrounded by the Aravalli hills, which add to the scenic beauty of the sanctuary.
- The sanctuary is home to various species of flora and fauna, including the Royal Bengal Tiger.
- It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and later became a part of the Tiger Reserve Project in 1978.
- Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary attracts a large number of tourists and wildlife enthusiasts who come to explore its diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
So, the correct answer to the question is option A: Rajasthan.

Number of Species of Flora in India
India is known for its rich biodiversity, including a wide variety of flora and fauna. In terms of flora, India is home to a large number of plant species. The exact number of species found in India can vary depending on various factors such as classification methods and ongoing research. However, according to the available data, the estimated number of species of flora in India is:
Answer: B. 47,000
Here are some key points to support this answer:
- India is one of the world's 17 megadiverse countries, meaning it harbors a significant proportion of Earth's species.
- The flora of India is incredibly diverse, ranging from tropical rainforests to alpine meadows.
- The country's varied climate, topography, and geographical location contribute to its rich floral diversity.
- India is home to various vegetation types, including tropical evergreen forests, deciduous forests, grasslands, wetlands, and deserts.
- According to the Botanical Survey of India (BSI), there are around 47,000 species of flora recorded in India.
- This number includes a wide range of flowering plants, ferns, mosses, lichens, algae, and other plant groups.
- The BSI continuously conducts surveys and research to document and update the flora of India, which may lead to changes in the number of recorded species.
It's important to note that the number of flora species in India is subject to ongoing research and discovery. Therefore, it's always beneficial to refer to updated sources such as the BSI for the most accurate and current information.

Periyar Tiger Reserve is situated in which state of India?

Explanation:

The correct answer is B: Kerala.
Here is a detailed explanation:
- Periyar Tiger Reserve is located in the state of Kerala in India.
- It is one of the most well-known tiger reserves in the country.
- The reserve is spread over an area of 925 square kilometers and is located in the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats.
- The reserve is named after the Periyar River, which flows through it.
- It was established in 1978 and was declared a tiger reserve in 1978 under the Project Tiger initiative.
- Periyar Tiger Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various species of animals including tigers, elephants, leopards, and many more.
- The reserve is also famous for its picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and serene lakes.
- It attracts a large number of tourists and nature enthusiasts who visit the reserve to experience its natural beauty and wildlife.
- The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located within the reserve, offers various activities like boat safaris, nature walks, and wildlife spotting.
- It is a popular destination for eco-tourism and is a hotspot for wildlife conservation in India.
Therefore, the correct answer is B: Kerala.

The state with the largest area under permanent forests among the options given is Madhya Pradesh.


Explanation:
To determine the correct answer, we need to compare the area of permanent forests in each of the given states.
- Bihar: The area under permanent forests in Bihar is not mentioned in the options.
- Kerala: The area under permanent forests in Kerala is not mentioned in the options.
- Madhya Pradesh: Madhya Pradesh is known for its extensive forest cover. It has a large area under permanent forests.
- Uttar Pradesh: The area under permanent forests in Uttar Pradesh is not mentioned in the options.
Therefore, among the given options, Madhya Pradesh has the largest area under permanent forests.

Extinct Species

The correct answer is option D: Species which are not found. Extinct species refer to those species that no longer exist or are not found in the wild or in their natural habitats. These species have completely disappeared from the Earth. Extinction can occur for various reasons, such as habitat destruction, overhunting, pollution, climate change, or natural disasters.

Explanation:
To provide a detailed solution, let's briefly look at the other options and why they are not correct:
- Option A: Species whose population levels are normal
- This option refers to species with stable or sustainable population levels. It does not imply that the species is extinct.
- Option B: Species whose population has declined
- While a declining population may indicate a risk of extinction, it does not necessarily mean that the species is extinct. Extinction occurs when a species no longer exists.
- Option C: Species with a small population
- A small population size may make a species vulnerable to extinction, but it does not guarantee that the species is already extinct.
Therefore, the correct answer is option D: Species which are not found. Extinct species are those that have vanished from the Earth, either due to natural causes or human activities, and are no longer found in their natural habitats.

Answer:
The vulnerable species among the given options is the Blue sheep. Here's a detailed explanation:
Black buck:
- Black buck is not a vulnerable species.
- It is listed as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
- The population of black bucks is stable and not at risk.
Crocodile:
- Crocodile is not a vulnerable species.
- Some species of crocodiles are listed as vulnerable or endangered, but the options do not specify a particular species.
- Without specifying a particular species, we cannot assume that crocodile is vulnerable.
Indian rhino:
- Indian rhino is not a vulnerable species.
- It is listed as "Vulnerable" by the IUCN.
- The population of Indian rhinos has been recovering due to conservation efforts.
Blue sheep:
- Blue sheep is a vulnerable species.
- It is listed as "Near Threatened" by the IUCN.
- Blue sheep populations are declining due to habitat loss and hunting.
Therefore, among the given options, the vulnerable species is the Blue sheep.

Answer:
To determine which of the following species is extinct, we need to examine each option individually:
A: Blue sheep
- Blue sheep, also known as bharal, are native to the Himalayas and other mountainous regions.
- They are not classified as an extinct species.
B: Asiatic cheetah
- The Asiatic cheetah, also known as the Iranian cheetah, is indeed an extinct species.
- It was once found in several countries in Asia, including India, Pakistan, and Iran.
- However, due to habitat loss, poaching, and other factors, the Asiatic cheetah is now considered critically endangered and possibly extinct in the wild.
C: Black buck
- The black buck is a species of antelope native to the Indian subcontinent.
- It is not classified as an extinct species.
D: Asiatic elephant
- The Asiatic elephant is a species of elephant found in several Asian countries, including India, Nepal, and Thailand.
- It is not classified as an extinct species.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B: Asiatic cheetah.

Aim of Chipko Movement:
The aim of the Chipko Movement was to protect and conserve the forests. This movement originated in the state of Uttarakhand in India in the 1970s and gained prominence due to the efforts of local communities, especially women.

Reasons for the Chipko Movement:

- Rapid deforestation: The movement was a response to the rampant deforestation taking place in the Himalayan region, which was leading to ecological imbalance and loss of livelihood for local communities.
- Livelihood protection: The movement aimed to protect the traditional livelihoods of the local communities, such as agriculture and collection of forest resources.
- Environmental conservation: The Chipko Movement sought to raise awareness about the importance of forests in maintaining ecological balance, preventing soil erosion, and preserving biodiversity.
- Women's involvement: Women played a significant role in the movement by hugging trees and forming human chains around them to prevent them from being cut down. This brought attention to the issue and highlighted the importance of women's participation in environmental movements.

Achievements of the Chipko Movement:

- Policy changes: The movement led to the introduction of policies and laws for the protection of forests and the rights of local communities, such as the recognition of the rights of forest dwellers and the implementation of sustainable forest management practices.
- Conservation awareness: The Chipko Movement helped in creating awareness about the importance of forests and the need for their conservation not only in India but also globally.
- Inspiration for other movements: The success of the Chipko Movement inspired similar movements in different parts of India and the world, highlighting the power of grassroots activism in environmental conservation.
Overall, the aim of the Chipko Movement was to protect and conserve forests, raise awareness about the ecological importance of forests, and ensure the rights and livelihoods of local communities dependent on forests.

Reasons for Depletion of Forests:
A: Mining
- Mining activities often require the clearing of large areas of forests to access mineral resources. This leads to deforestation and habitat destruction.
B: Multi-purpose river valley projects
- Construction of dams and reservoirs for multi-purpose river valley projects can result in the flooding of large forested areas. This leads to the destruction of forests and the displacement of wildlife.
C: Grazing
- Unregulated grazing by livestock can cause overgrazing, which depletes the vegetation in forests. This can lead to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and the degradation of forest ecosystems.
D: Creation of shelter belts (Not a reason for depletion of forests)
- Shelter belts are rows of trees planted to provide protection from wind and soil erosion. They are not a cause of deforestation or forest depletion.
Therefore, the correct answer is D: Creation of shelter belts. This is not one of the reasons for the depletion of forests.

Answer:

The correct answer is D: Unclassed forests.

Explanation:

Forests and wastelands that belong to both private individuals and the government are known as unclassed forests. Here's a detailed explanation:

• Forests and wastelands: These are areas covered with trees and vegetation or areas that are uncultivated or unused.


• Belonging to both private individuals and government: These forests and wastelands may be owned by private individuals as well as the government.


• Unclassed forests: These are forests that have not been classified or designated for any specific purpose or protection. They do not fall under the categories of reserved forests, protected forests, or sacred groves.

It is important to note that unclassed forests may not have any legal protection or management plans in place, which can lead to issues such as deforestation and degradation if proper measures are not taken.

Endemic Species
Endemic species are those that are found in specific areas and are isolated by natural or geographical barriers. These species are unique to a particular region and are not found anywhere else in the world. They have evolved and adapted to the specific conditions of their habitat. Here are some key points about endemic species:
1. Definition: Endemic species refer to plants or animals that are native to a certain geographic area and are not naturally found anywhere else.
2. Geographical barriers: These barriers can include mountains, rivers, oceans, deserts, or any other physical features that restrict the movement of species.
3. Isolation: The isolation of endemic species from other populations promotes genetic diversity and can lead to the development of unique characteristics and adaptations.
4. Biodiversity hotspots: Endemic species are often found in biodiversity hotspots, which are regions with high levels of species richness and endemism. These areas are of great conservation importance.
5. Threats: Endemic species are particularly vulnerable to habitat loss, fragmentation, climate change, and other human activities. Their restricted range makes them more susceptible to extinction if their habitat is destroyed or altered.
6. Conservation efforts: Protecting and conserving endemic species and their habitats is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and preserving unique evolutionary processes.
In conclusion, endemic species are important components of biodiversity and require special attention for their conservation. Understanding their distribution and the factors that contribute to their uniqueness can help guide conservation efforts and ensure their long-term survival.

Local communities have played a significant role in fighting for the conservation of forests in various tiger reserves in India. The following tiger reserves are known for the efforts made by local communities:
1. Manas Tiger Reserve:
- Local communities in Manas Tiger Reserve, located in Assam, have actively participated in forest conservation.
- They have formed various community-based organizations such as the Manas Maozigendri Ecotourism Society, which promotes sustainable tourism and supports conservation efforts.
- The Bodo community, in particular, has been instrumental in protecting the reserve and its wildlife.
2. Periyar Tiger Reserve:
- Local communities in Periyar Tiger Reserve, located in Kerala, have been actively involved in forest conservation.
- The tribal communities living in the reserve, such as the Mannan and Paliyan tribes, have a deep connection with the forest and have been traditional custodians of the land.
- They have been engaged in activities like forest patrols, monitoring wildlife, and raising awareness about conservation.
3. Simlipal Biosphere Reserve:
- Local communities in Simlipal Biosphere Reserve, located in Odisha, have fought for the conservation of the forests.
- The indigenous communities residing in and around the reserve, such as the Mankidia and Khadia tribes, have been actively involved in protecting the forest and its biodiversity.
- They have been engaged in community-based conservation initiatives and have been instrumental in reducing human-wildlife conflicts.
4. Sariska Tiger Reserve:
- Local communities in Sariska Tiger Reserve, located in Rajasthan, have also played a role in forest conservation.
- The Meena tribe, which inhabits the area, has been actively involved in safeguarding the reserve and its wildlife.
- They have been working closely with the forest department to combat poaching and encroachment.
In conclusion, the local communities in Manas Tiger Reserve, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Simlipal Biosphere Reserve, and Sariska Tiger Reserve have fought for the conservation of the forests, showcasing their commitment to protecting the rich biodiversity of these regions.