Questions and Answers
What percentage of India's geographical area is covered by forests and trees?
Which of the following is NOT a requirement for a region to qualify as a biodiversity hotspot?
Which biodiversity hotspot has the highest number of endangered species in India?
Which mammal species has NOT been discovered in the Indo-Burma Region?
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How many plant species are endemic to the Himalayas?
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What is the geographical coverage of the Indo-Burma Region?
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Which of these bird species is included among the rich bird diversity of the Indo-Burma Region?
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Which of the following regions is NOT listed as a biodiversity hotspot in India?
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Study Notes
Biodiversity Overview
- Biodiversity refers to the variation of plant and animal species within a specific habitat.
- Major components include species richness (number of different species) and species evenness (distribution of species).
- India boasts rich biodiversity, with forests and trees covering 23.39% of its geographical area.
Biodiversity Hotspots Definition
- Coined by Norman Myers, "Biodiversity hotspots" are regions characterized by high species richness and endemism.
- Regions must meet two criteria to qualify as a hotspot:
- Must contain at least 1,500 species of vascular plants.
- Must retain 70% of its original habitat.
Major Biodiversity Hotspots in India
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The Himalayas
- Largest mountain range globally, spanning North-East India, Bhutan, and parts of Nepal.
- Home to 163 endangered species, including the Wild Asian Water Buffalo and One-horned Rhino.
- Contains approximately 10,000 plant species, with 3,160 being endemic to the region.
- Covers an area of nearly 750,000 km².
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Indo-Burma Region
- Encompasses a vast area of 2,373,000 km².
- Recently identified six new large mammal species, including the Large-antlered Muntjac and Saola.
- Renowned for its endemic freshwater turtle species, many of which face extinction due to over-harvesting and habitat loss.
- Hosts around 1,300 bird species, including threatened species like the White-eared Night-heron and Grey-crowned Crocias.
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Description
This quiz explores the concept of biodiversity hotspots in India, a crucial topic for the UPSC Civil Services Examination. Understand the significance of biodiversity, species richness, and the geographical distribution of forests in the country. Test your knowledge and preparation for the GS-III section.
