Question

Tropical regions account for greater biological diversity because of the following reasons, except:

• A. Higher productivity due to more availability of solar energy
• B. Lower predation due to diversity of food availability
• C. Tropics are less seasonal and relatively more constant and predictable
• D. These latitudes are relatively undisturbed for many years, leading to a long evolutionary time for diversification

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Let's evaluate each statement:

(1) Higher productivity due to more availability of solar energy: This is correct. Tropical regions receive more sunlight year-round, leading to higher productivity in terms of plant growth and, consequently, greater biological diversity.

(2) Lower predation due to diversity of food availability: This is incorrect. While tropical regions have a high diversity of species and food sources, they are not characterized by lower predation. In fact, due to the high species diversity and abundance, predation can be intense and varied in these ecosystems. The abundance of food does not necessarily lead to lower predation.

(3) Tropics are less seasonal and relatively more constant and predictable: This is correct. Tropical regions experience less seasonal variation in climate, with temperatures remaining relatively stable throughout the year. This consistency provides a stable environment for the evolution of diverse species.

(4) These latitudes are relatively undisturbed for many years, leading to a long evolutionary time for diversification: This is correct. The tropical regions have been relatively stable over evolutionary time, allowing for the accumulation of species and the development of greater biodiversity.

Thus, the statement that is incorrect is (2) Lower predation due to diversity of food availability, as predation can be high in tropical ecosystems despite the abundance of food.

The correct answer is (2) Lower predation due to diversity of food availability.

Answer 2

Contrary to the statement, predation pressure is higher in tropical regions due to complex food webs and high species diversity. Predation and competition contribute to species richness in these ecosystems, rather than reducing diversity.