Biodiversity hotspots are regions with exceptional levels of plant and animal species that are found nowhere else on Earth and are also experiencing serious threats from human activities. India, with its varied climatic zones and diverse ecosystems, is home to several significant biodiversity hotspots that are crucial for global conservation efforts. Here’s a detailed overview of India’s biodiversity hotspots:
Cyclones form over warm ocean waters where the sea surface temperature exceeds 26°C (79°F). The warm, moist air rises, creating a low-pressure area. As the air rises and cools, it condenses to form clouds and rain, releasing latent heat that further strengthens the storm. The Coriolis effect causes the storm to rotate, leading to the formation of a cyclonic system.
The Western Ghats, stretching along the western coast of India from Gujarat to Kerala, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s richest regions in terms of biodiversity. This hotspot is renowned for its high levels of endemism, with many species of plants, animals, and amphibians found only in this region. Key features include:
The Eastern Himalayas encompass parts of northeastern India, Bhutan, and Nepal. This region is notable for its unique biodiversity and rich ecological systems, ranging from temperate forests to alpine meadows. Key aspects include:
The Indo-Burma Region includes parts of northeastern India, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is recognized for its diverse ecosystems and high levels of species endemism. This hotspot covers:
Sundaland includes the western part of Indonesia, parts of Malaysia, and the southern tip of Thailand. In India, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are part of this hotspot. Key features include:
India has undertaken various conservation efforts to protect these biodiversity hotspots, including:
India’s biodiversity hotspots are vital for global ecological health and conservation. They support a wide range of endemic and threatened species, and their preservation is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and sustaining biodiversity. Understanding these hotspots is essential for UPSC aspirants as it highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the challenges faced in protecting natural heritage.
A biodiversity hotspot is a region that is both rich in endemic species and has experienced significant habitat loss. The concept, introduced by Norman Myers in 1988 and later formalized by Conservation International, helps prioritize conservation efforts in areas that are critical for global biodiversity.
India has four biodiversity hotspots:
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