Question

A strict protection of biodiversity hotspots could reduce the ongoing mass extinction by almost:

• A. 20%
• B. 25%
• C. 30%
• D. 35%

Hint:

Biodiversity hotspots are critical for conserving Earth’s biological wealth.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Biodiversity hotspots are regions with high species richness and endemism that face significant threats. Protecting these areas is crucial for conservation efforts:

(A) 20% - Underestimation: While significant, this percentage doesn't reflect the full potential impact of hotspot protection.

(B) 30% - Correct: Scientific studies indicate that strict protection of biodiversity hotspots could reduce ongoing mass extinction by approximately 30% by safeguarding the most threatened species concentrations.

(C) 25% - Close but not optimal: This represents substantial impact but slightly underestimates the conservation potential.

(D) 35% - Overestimation: While hotspot protection is crucial, this percentage exceeds current scientific estimates of its potential impact.

The most accurate answer is (C) 30%, based on conservation biology research showing that protecting these critical areas (covering just 2.3% of Earth's surface but containing 50% of plant species and 42% of terrestrial vertebrates) could prevent about 30% of projected extinctions.

Answer 2

Biodiversity hotspots are regions with exceptionally high species diversity and endemism. Protecting these areas is critical for conserving global biodiversity. Studies estimate that protecting biodiversity hotspots could reduce the rate of species extinction by approximately 30% .

• (A): Incorrect because 20% underestimates the impact.
• (B): Incorrect because 25% is also too low.
• (C): Correct because 30% is the widely accepted estimate.
• (D): Incorrect because 35% overestimates the impact.