Question

What is biodiversity hotspot?

Hint:

Biodiversity hotspots = small areas, very rich in species (especially endemics), but highly threatened. Protecting them ensures global biodiversity conservation.

Answer 1

A biodiversity hotspot is a biogeographic region that is rich in endemic species and has a high level of biodiversity, but is under severe threat from human activities. The concept was introduced by Norman Myers in 1988. Criteria for a Region to Qualify as a Hotspot: \begin{enumerate} \item Must have at least 1,500 species of vascular plants as endemics. \item Must have lost at least 70% of its original habitat. \end{enumerate} Examples of Biodiversity Hotspots in India: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Indo-Burma region (including North-East India and Andaman-Nicobar Islands).} \\ \bullet & \text{Himalaya (entire Indian Himalayan region and Indo-Burma ranges).} \\ \bullet & \text{Indo-Malayan region (Nicobar Islands).} \\ \bullet & \text{Sundalands including Nicobar group of islands.} \\ \end{array}\] Significance: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Hotspots cover only about 2.3% of Earth's land area but support more than 50% of endemic plant species.} \\ \bullet & \text{They are crucial for ecological balance and conservation of global biodiversity.} \\ \end{array}\]