Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Biodiversity hotspots are biogeographic regions with significant levels of biodiversity that are threatened with habitat loss. The concept was coined by British ecologist Norman Myers in 1988 to prioritize conservation efforts. These areas represent a crucial fraction of the Earth’s terrestrial biodiversity, yet face immense pressure from human activities. Identifying and protecting these hotspots is vital for preventing mass extinction and maintaining ecosystem services. The Indian sub-region, with its diverse ecosystems, harbors several such hotspots, demanding urgent conservation attention.
Defining Biodiversity Hotspots
A biodiversity hotspot is a region with at least 1,500 species of vascular plants (>0.5% of the world’s total) as endemics – meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. These regions have lost at least 70% of their original natural vegetation. This dual criterion – exceptional species richness and significant habitat loss – distinguishes hotspots from other areas of high biodiversity.
Criteria for Selection
The selection of biodiversity hotspots is based on two strict criteria:
- Species Endemism: The region must contain at least 1,500 species of vascular plants found nowhere else on Earth. This highlights the unique evolutionary history and irreplaceable nature of the region’s flora.
- Degree of Threat: The region must have lost at least 70% of its original habitat. This indicates a high level of threat and urgency for conservation action.
These criteria, established by Conservation International, help prioritize conservation efforts in areas where they will have the greatest impact.
Biodiversity Hotspots of the Indian Sub-region
1. The Himalayas
Salient Features: This hotspot encompasses the entire mountain range from Pakistan to Myanmar. It is home to a vast array of plant and animal species, including iconic species like the snow leopard, red panda, and musk deer. The region’s altitudinal gradient creates diverse habitats, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. It contains approximately 10,000 plant species, with about 3,160 endemic to the region.
Threats: Deforestation, habitat fragmentation due to infrastructure development, climate change leading to glacial melt, and poaching are major threats.
2. Indo-Burma
Salient Features: This hotspot extends across India’s Northeast, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and parts of southern China. It is characterized by a complex mosaic of ecosystems, including tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, dry deciduous forests, and montane forests. It is home to numerous endemic species, including the clouded leopard, Nicobar megapode, and several primate species. Approximately 13,600 plant species are found here, with around 1,639 being endemic.
Threats: Illegal logging, agricultural expansion, infrastructure development, and hunting are significant threats. Political instability in some parts of the region also hinders conservation efforts.
3. Sundaland
Salient Features: This hotspot includes Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, and parts of Thailand. While primarily maritime, it includes the islands of Borneo, Java, and Sumatra. It is renowned for its high plant diversity, including dipterocarp forests, and is home to iconic species like the orangutan, Sumatran tiger, and Javan rhinoceros. It contains approximately 25,000 plant species, with around 1,500 endemic species.
Threats: Deforestation for palm oil plantations, illegal logging, and poaching are major threats. The region is also vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as sea-level rise.
4. Western Ghats and Sri Lanka
Salient Features: This hotspot encompasses the Western Ghats mountain range in India and the island of Sri Lanka. It is characterized by tropical rainforests, montane forests, and scrublands. It is home to a high number of endemic species, including the lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri tahr, and numerous amphibian and reptile species. Approximately 6,000 plant species are found here, with around 1,700 endemic.
Threats: Deforestation for agriculture and plantations, habitat fragmentation due to infrastructure development, and poaching are major threats. The region is also facing increasing pressure from tourism.
Table summarizing the hotspots:
| Hotspot | Geographical Area | Endemic Plant Species (approx.) | Major Threats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Himalayas | Pakistan to Myanmar | 3,160 | Deforestation, Climate Change, Poaching |
| Indo-Burma | Northeast India to Southern China | 1,639 | Logging, Agriculture, Political Instability |
| Sundaland | Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore | 1,500 | Palm Oil Plantations, Logging, Climate Change |
| Western Ghats & Sri Lanka | Western India & Sri Lanka | 1,700 | Deforestation, Infrastructure, Tourism |
Conclusion
Biodiversity hotspots represent critical areas for global conservation. The Indian sub-region, harboring four such hotspots, faces significant challenges in protecting its unique biodiversity. Effective conservation strategies require a multi-pronged approach, including habitat restoration, sustainable land-use planning, community involvement, and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations. Prioritizing these hotspots is not merely an ecological imperative but also crucial for ensuring the long-term well-being of human populations dependent on ecosystem services.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.