Question

Deserts, rain forests, mangroves, coral reefs, wetlands, estuaries, and alpine meadows in India represent:

• A. Ecological diversity
• B. Genetic diversity
• C. Species diversity
• D. Species diversity and ecological diversity

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The terms listed in the question—deserts, rain forests, mangroves, coral reefs, wetlands, estuaries, and alpine meadows—represent different types of ecosystems found in India. These ecosystems have distinct physical characteristics, climates, and biological communities. Therefore, they contribute to ecological diversity, which refers to the variety of ecosystems or habitats in a given area.

Here's a breakdown of the other options:

(2) Genetic diversity: This refers to the variety of genes within a species. It is not specifically related to the ecosystems listed in the question, but rather to the genetic variation within species.

(3) Species diversity: This refers to the variety of species within an ecosystem. While these ecosystems have diverse species, the focus of the question is on the diversity of ecosystems rather than species alone.

(4) Species diversity and ecological diversity: While species diversity does exist within these ecosystems, the correct answer focuses on the ecological diversity—the variety of ecosystems themselves.

Thus, the correct answer is (1) Ecological diversity, as these ecosystems represent different ecological types and contribute to the overall ecological diversity in India.

Answer 2

These varied ecosystems represent ecological diversity, which refers to the variety of ecosystems in a region. Ecological diversity emphasizes habitat types and ecosystem roles, not species or genetic diversity within them.