Fundamentals of Physical Geography: Biodiversity & Conservation Video Lecture | NCERT Video Summary: Class 6 to Class 12 (English) - UPSC

Ans. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, found in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is important for conservation because it plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and functioning of ecosystems. Biodiversity provides essential ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling, pollination, and water purification, which are vital for human well-being. Additionally, biodiversity also enhances the resilience of ecosystems, making them more adaptable to environmental changes and disturbances.

Ans. Human activity has a significant impact on biodiversity. Activities such as deforestation, habitat destruction, pollution, overexploitation of natural resources, and climate change have led to the loss of biodiversity at an alarming rate. These activities disrupt ecosystems, causing the extinction of species and the degradation of habitats. Human activities also contribute to the introduction of invasive species, which can outcompete and displace native species, further reducing biodiversity.

Ans. There are several conservation strategies to protect biodiversity. Some of the common strategies include: 1. Protected Areas: Establishing protected areas such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and nature reserves to conserve critical habitats and species. 2. Sustainable Resource Management: Promoting sustainable practices in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry to ensure the responsible use of natural resources without degrading ecosystems. 3. Species Protection: Implementing measures to protect endangered species, including captive breeding programs, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching efforts. 4. Awareness and Education: Increasing public awareness about the importance of biodiversity and conservation through education campaigns and outreach programs. 5. International Cooperation: Promoting international collaborations and agreements to address global issues such as illegal wildlife trade and climate change, which impact biodiversity at a larger scale.

Ans. Climate change has a profound impact on biodiversity. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events can disrupt ecosystems and alter the distribution and behavior of species. Some of the impacts of climate change on biodiversity include: 1. Habitat Loss: Shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns can lead to the loss or degradation of habitats, making them unsuitable for certain species. 2. Range Shifts: Species may need to move to higher latitudes or altitudes to find suitable conditions, resulting in range shifts. However, some species may not be able to adapt or migrate fast enough, leading to population declines or local extinctions. 3. Phenological Changes: Climate change can affect the timing of biological events such as breeding, migration, and flowering. If different species within an ecosystem do not synchronize their activities, it can disrupt ecological interactions. 4. Coral Bleaching: Warmer ocean temperatures can cause coral bleaching, which results in the loss of symbiotic algae that provide food and color to corals. This leads to the death of coral reefs, impacting marine biodiversity.

Ans. Individuals can contribute to biodiversity conservation in various ways: 1. Sustainable Lifestyle Choices: Adopting sustainable practices such as reducing waste, conserving water, using renewable energy sources, and consuming responsibly can help reduce the ecological footprint and minimize the impact on biodiversity. 2. Support Conservation Organizations: Donating to and volunteering with conservation organizations can provide financial support and contribute to on-ground conservation efforts. 3. Gardening for Biodiversity: Creating wildlife-friendly gardens with native plants, providing food and shelter for local species, and avoiding the use of pesticides can attract and support biodiversity in urban areas. 4. Responsible Travel and Recreation: Choosing eco-friendly tourism options, respecting wildlife and their habitats while visiting natural areas, and participating in citizen science initiatives can contribute to biodiversity conservation. 5. Education and Advocacy: Raising awareness about biodiversity and conservation issues through social media, participating in local conservation initiatives, and advocating for policy changes can help promote the importance of biodiversity in society.