Question

Write short note on any two:
(i) Red data book
(ii) Parasitism
(iii) Role of leguminous plants in increasing the fertility of soil.

Hint:

Red Data Book = list of threatened species. Parasitism = one benefits, host harmed. Legumes = nitrogen fixation improves soil fertility.

Answer 1

(i) Red data book: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{The Red Data Book is a record of endangered and threatened species of plants and animals.} \\ \bullet & \text{It is maintained by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).} \\ \bullet & \text{It helps in monitoring species at risk of extinction and guiding conservation strategies.} \\ \end{array}\] (ii) Parasitism: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{A type of symbiotic relationship where one organism (parasite) derives nutrition from another organism (host), causing harm to the host.} \\ \bullet & \text{Examples: Plasmodium (malarial parasite) in humans, Cuscuta (dodder) on other plants.} \\ \end{array}\] (iii) Role of leguminous plants in increasing soil fertility: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Leguminous plants like peas, beans, and clover have root nodules containing Rhizobium bacteria.} \\ \bullet & \text{These bacteria fix atmospheric nitrogen into nitrates, enriching the soil.} \\ \bullet & \text{Reduces the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers and improves crop productivity.} \\ \end{array}\]