Biodiversity and Conservation

Overview

Biodiversity is the foundation of ecosystem services. This chapter addresses the hierarchical levels of biodiversity, the catastrophic loss triggered by human activity, and the global efforts to conserve threatened species.

Learning Objectives

Define Genetic, Species, and Ecosystem biodiversity
Identify the scientific criteria for Biodiversity Hotspots
Contrast In-situ and Ex-situ conservation methods
Analyze the primary threats to modern biodiversity

Key Concepts

Biodiversity Hotspots

Regions with a high concentration of endemic species experiencing significant habitat loss. There are currently 36 such areas globally.

Conservation Strategies

In-situ conservation protects species in their natural habitat (National Parks), while Ex-situ involves relocation (Botanical gardens/Zoos).

Key Terms

EndemicEndangeredMegadiversityBiosphereEcological Footprint

Examples

The Western Ghats

A global biodiversity hotspot in India with countless endemic species of plants and animals.

Quick Check

What is 'In-situ' conservation?
Who publishes the 'Red List'?