Which one among the following is home to the endangered mountain gorillas in Africa?
Virunga Mountains
Detailed Solution:
Mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) are a critically endangered species of great apes native to a small region in central Africa. They inhabit dense forests and mountainous regions where they find food and shelter.
Virunga Mountains:
The Virunga Mountains is a chain of volcanoes along the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, and Uganda. This mountain range is the primary habitat for mountain gorillas. Protected areas such as Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda), and Virunga National Park (DRC) lie within this range, forming a crucial conservation zone for mountain gorillas. These parks provide natural forests, bamboo zones, and high-altitude ecosystems ideal for the gorillas’ survival. The region is one of the last remaining strongholds of mountain gorilla populations.
Mount Kenya:
Mount Kenya is the second highest mountain in Africa and is located in Kenya. It is known for its unique alpine ecosystems, glaciers, and diverse flora and fauna but does not have mountain gorillas. Its habitats support other wildlife like elephants, buffalo, and various bird species but not mountain gorillas.
Mount Kilimanjaro:
Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, is situated in Tanzania. It features montane forests and alpine moorlands but is not home to mountain gorillas. Kilimanjaro’s wildlife includes elephants, leopards, and other mammals, but gorillas are absent here.
Ngorongoro Crater:
Ngorongoro Crater is a large volcanic caldera in Tanzania, famous for its rich wildlife and as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It supports a dense population of animals like lions, elephants, rhinos, and flamingos but is not a habitat for mountain gorillas. The crater's open grasslands and lakes do not provide the dense forest environment needed by gorillas.
Summary:
Mountain gorillas require dense forested and mountainous habitats, which the Virunga Mountains provide. This region’s protected parks have been crucial in the conservation of this endangered species.
Which one among the following Biosphere Reserves is spread over three states in India ?
Which biosphere reserve among the following has the largest area?
India initiated its Biosphere Reserve program to conserve unique ecosystems and their biodiversity. Which of the following reserves, established in $1986$ and encompassing parts of the Western Ghats across the tri-junction of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, was the first to be designated in the country?
Bhaisadarha Sanctuary is not related to
Which among the following is NOT one of the Global Biodiversity Hotspots ?
In which of the following states is Pench Tiger Reserve located ?