Biodiversity refers to the varieties of plants and animal species present in the ecosystems of the earth. Candidates can read other NCERT Geography notes to prepare for UPSC IAS Prelims and Mains exam.

It also includes microorganisms, fungi, algae, etc. residing in either of the terrestrial or aquatic habitats. The term was popularised by a Sociobiologist, Edward Wilson. To know about Biodiversity Conservation and its importance we should first understand in detail what biodiversity and its types are.

Biodiversity and Its Types

Biodiversity is made up of two words, ‘bio’ and ‘diversity’. Bio means ‘life’ and diversity means ‘variety’. Thus, biodiversity can be defined as different varieties of species and organisms found in a particular region. There are different levels of biodiversity. Important ones are-

1. Genetic Diversity,
2. Species Diversity,
3. Ecosystem Diversity.

Genetic Diversity

Genetic Diversity refers to the diversity found in different types of genes within species. It can be their physical characteristics or their other characters. For example, a Himalayan plant shows a variation in the concentration of chemicals which they produce.

Species Diversity

Species Diversity is a type of diversity that refers to the variation of species found. For example, in India Eastern and Western Ghats have different species.

Ecosystem Diversity

Ecosystem diversity is found at the ecosystem level. For example, ecosystems in deserts, rain forests, mangroves, etc. Each of them has its own ecosystem.

Loss of Biodiversity

• The increase in the population of human beings in recent years has increased the overall consumption of natural resources.
• Deforestation and overexploitation have been increased to meet the demands of the growing population.
• About 50 percent of the species in the world resides only in tropical forests. Destruction of these can cause huge disasters.
• Species also get disturbed by natural calamities like earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions, forest fires, drought, etc. Flora and fauna get affected due to these calamities.
• Extensive use of chemical pesticides in the farms and the residues thrown away by the industries into the rivers also harm different species found in that particular region.
• Pollutants like hydrocarbons and toxic chemicals also destroy weak and sensitive species.
• Exotic species is a term used for the species which are not found naturally in a place but are brought there as an inhabitant. As they are not local inhabitants of the area they cannot survive there and become extinct. There are also some cases in which species can’t survive in a foreign environment.
• Therefore, sometimes the ecosystem suffers damage because of the introduction of exotic species.
• It has been also seen that animals like elephants, tigers, crocodiles, minks, and birds are hunted down without any mercy by poachers for their tusks, horns, etc. This has put many species in the endangered category.

Causes for the Loss of Biodiversity

The following reasons are responsible for the loss of biodiversity

1. Fragmentation or loss of habitat
2. Excessive exploitation
3. Co-extinctions of species
4. Invasion of an alien

Classification of Species

There are three categories classified by IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) regarding critical levels of species safety for their conservation.

Endangered Species

Those species are included in this category which is in danger of extinction. IUCN publishes a list of endangered species and goes by the name Red List of threatened species. Example – Red panda is an endangered species, Zenkeria Sebastinei is a grass found in Agasthiyamalai peak of India is a critically endangered species.

Vulnerable Species

Species that can be extinct soon if measures are not taken to stop their extinction comes under this category. But these species can also become extinct because their survival rate is not satisfactory.

Rare Species

These species are found in very small numbers on the planet. They are found in small areas and are very rare. Such an example of this type of species is a highly rare endemic tree named, Humboldtia Decurrens Bedd found in Southern Western Ghats of India.

Biodiversity and Conservation

Biodiversity conservation is nothing but saving the diversity of various species and organisms which are important for nature.

• There is a need to educate people about their environment and the diversity in them.
• They have to adopt environment-friendly practices for sustainable development.
• They should not harm the flora and fauna around them.
• Overexploitation should be stopped.
• Institutions should be developed to inform people about biodiversities and their importance.
• Endangered species should be protected by taking necessary measures.
• Proper planning and management are required to prevent the extinction of species.
• Different species of livestock, animals, food crops, plants, timber trees, forage plants, and their wild relatives should be preserved before they go extinct.
• Countries must identify the natural habitats of these species and take considerable steps for conservation.
• Plants are considered producers in nature and play an important role in the ecosystem. It’s the basic element of the ecosystem.
• Most of the hotspots depend on their diversity of ecosystems. For example, Madagascar contains about 85 percent of the world’s plants and animals that are found nowhere else.
• Habitats of species where they live, rest, feed, breed, lay eggs, nurse their young ones should be protected.
• Illegal hunting and exploitation of plants and animals by humans for their benefit should be stopped.
• Sanctuaries, Biospheres Reserves should be introduced in different places to safeguard the species.

Types of Biodiversity Conservation

Loss of Biodiversity can be prevented by two methods:

In Situ Conservation

In situ conservation is the method where the varieties of plants and animal species are protected and conserved in their natural habitat with the help of national parks and reserves, hot spots, wild forests, biological reserves, etc.

Ex Situ Conservation

Ex situ conservation method involves protecting and conserving the rare species of plants and animals outside their natural habitat and through aquariums, botanical gardens, zoos, gene banks, etc.

Importance of Biodiversity and its Conservation

• Biological diversity plays an important role in our environment. It promotes the development of human culture. It also balances nature at species, ecological and genetic levels.
• Ecological Role: Every organism is related to other organisms somehow. They are interconnected to each other and help themselves for better sustainable development. Some species use sunlight and make food for others; some of them depend on other organisms for food.
• Species help in maintaining the balance of nature’s cycles like circulating water and nutrients in the ecosystem.
• The more diverse the ecosystem better is the opportunity for their survival.
• The economic role of Biodiversity: Biodiversity is important in human life. It provides resources for them. Crop diversity is important for the survival of human beings. Biodiversity provides a reservoir of resources by which humans get their food, pharmaceutical, and other products. This also results in the deterioration of biodiversity because of its extensive use. Humans exploit biodiversity resources for their benefit.
• Scientific role of Biodiversity: Biodiversity is important as it provides us with information about the evolution of various things in nature, about how it is produced, its origin. It also helps in analyzing the way a species functions.
• It is not right to play part in the extinction of other species. They also have as much right as humans to live on the planet.

Steps Taken Towards Biodiversity Conservation

• In 1992, at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, an earth summit was held to sign the Convention of Biodiversity in which along with the Government of India, 155 other nations also participated.
• The World conservation strategy has suggested many steps for the conservation of biodiversity.
• Regarding the conservation of forests, plants, and animals, the Government of India passed the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972. Under this act, various sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, and national parks have been made.
• Biodiversity is rich in certain areas like tropical regions. They are known as Mega Diversity Centers. These mega diversity centres are located in 12 countries, namely, India, Mexico, Columbia, Ecuador, Brazil, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Australia. In these vulnerable areas, hotspots are identified by IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) to conserve them.

FAQs

MCQs

1. What is the primary cause of biodiversity loss?

A) Natural disasters
B) Overexploitation of resources
C) Habitat preservation
D) Climate stability

2. Which of the following is NOT a method of biodiversity conservation?

A) In situ conservation
B) Ex situ conservation
C) Overfishing
D) Establishment of protected areas

3. What does 'ex situ conservation' involve?

A) Protecting species in their natural habitat
B) Protecting species outside their natural habitat
C) Decreasing human interference in ecosystems
D) Increasing wildlife populations in the wild

4. What is the role of genetic diversity in biodiversity?

A) It increases ecosystem stability
B) It ensures species' survival and adaptability
C) It reduces the number of species
D) It leads to ecosystem degradation

5. Which of the following is an example of in situ conservation?

A) Botanical gardens
B) Zoos
C) Wildlife sanctuaries
D) Gene banks

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Examine the causes and consequences of biodiversity loss in India.

Answer: In India, biodiversity loss is driven by several factors, including habitat destruction due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urbanization. Overexploitation of natural resources, poaching, and climate change also contribute to this loss. The consequences are far-reaching, affecting ecosystems, species survival, and the services provided by biodiversity, such as pollination, clean water, and climate regulation. The depletion of biodiversity harms food security, economic stability, and human health, especially in rural areas where communities rely on natural resources for sustenance. Moreover, the extinction of species disrupts the balance of ecosystems, leading to long-term ecological consequences. Conservation efforts are necessary to mitigate these risks and ensure the sustainability of ecosystems and species in India.

Q2: Discuss the role of government policies in biodiversity conservation in India.

Answer: The Indian government plays a pivotal role in biodiversity conservation through policies like the National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP) and the establishment of protected areas such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves. The Forest Conservation Act (1980) and the Wildlife Protection Act (1972) are key legal instruments aimed at preserving biodiversity. Additionally, India is a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which commits the country to conserve biodiversity and ensure its sustainable use. The government has also launched initiatives such as the Green India Mission and the National Afforestation Programme to restore ecosystems. Despite these efforts, challenges remain in the enforcement of policies, especially in the face of rapid economic growth and development pressures.

Q3: Evaluate the effectiveness of in situ and ex situ conservation methods in India.

Answer: In situ conservation, which includes the protection of ecosystems in their natural state, has been particularly effective in preserving species and their habitats through national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. India’s network of protected areas covers about 5% of the total land area and has successfully safeguarded species like tigers and rhinos. However, the effectiveness of in situ conservation is often limited by issues such as poaching, habitat fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflict. Ex situ conservation, which involves preserving species outside their natural habitats, has also contributed significantly, particularly through zoos and botanical gardens. These facilities have played an important role in breeding programs and safeguarding genetic diversity. However, ex situ conservation cannot replace the need for protecting habitats in the wild, and a balanced approach combining both methods is crucial for long-term biodiversity preservation.

Previous Year Questions on Biodiversity

1. UPSC CSE Prelims 2021:

Question: Which of the following is an example of in situ conservation?

A) Wildlife sanctuary
B) Botanical garden
C) Gene bank
D) Zoo

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Wildlife sanctuaries are an example of in situ conservation, where species are conserved in their natural habitats.

2. UPSC CSE Mains 2019 (GS Paper 3):

Question: Discuss the various strategies for biodiversity conservation in India and their effectiveness.

Answer: India has adopted multiple strategies for biodiversity conservation, including the establishment of protected areas, legal frameworks, and national programs like the National Biodiversity Action Plan. In situ conservation through national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves has proven effective in preserving various species. However, challenges such as poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict hinder full effectiveness. Ex situ conservation through zoos and botanical gardens has helped safeguard endangered species but cannot replace habitat protection. Both strategies need to be integrated for effective long-term conservation.

To get more information and study materials on Physical Geography, Human Geography, and Environmental Geography for UPSC IAS Prelims and Mains exam, candidates can check NCERT Geography Notes right here.