Question

Which part of India is rich in biodiversity?

• A. The Himalayas
• B. Indo-Burma Region
• C. Western Ghats
• D. Sundaland

Hint:

• India has four major global biodiversity hotspots: the Himalayas, the Western Ghats, the Indo-Burma region, and Sundaland (Nicobar Islands).
• The Western Ghats are particularly noted for high levels of species richness and endemism (species found nowhere else).
• Biodiversity hotspots are regions with a high concentration of endemic species that are also under significant threat of habitat loss.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

India is renowned for its rich biodiversity, characterized by a wide variety of ecosystems and species. Of particular interest are the regions that are recognized as biodiversity hotspots, which harbor a high number of endemic species. Among the given options, let's explore which part of India is rich in biodiversity.

The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri Hills, are a mountain range stretching along the western coast of India. This range is considered one of the world's eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity. The region is home to a vast number of species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth, including a wide variety of flora and fauna such as over 7,000 species of flowering plants, 139 mammal species, 508 bird species, 179 amphibian species, 6,000 insect species, and 290 freshwater fish species. Approximately 325 globally threatened species also inhabit the Western Ghats.

This biodiversely rich region provides numerous ecological services and is crucial for maintaining the environmental health of the subcontinent. Its dense forests greatly contribute to carbon sequestration, essential for climate regulation, and are also significant for water resources, as many important rivers originate from these mountains.

Thus, among the options provided, the Western Ghats are the correct answer when identifying the part of India rich in biodiversity.