Maharashtra Board Class 8 Science Chapter 18 Ecosystems Solutions

Std 8 Science Chapter 18 Ecosystems Question Answer Maharashtra Board

Class 8 Science Chapter 18 Ecosystems Question Answer Maharashtra Board

1. Complete The Following By Using The Correct Option:

Question a.Air, water, minerals, soil are ............ factors of an ecosystem. (physical, organic, inorganic)
Answer:Air, water, minerals, soil are physical factors of an ecosystem.
In simple words: Air, water, minerals, and soil are non-living components that significantly influence the living elements within an ecosystem.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguishing between biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors is a foundational concept for understanding ecosystems.

 

Question b.River, ponds, ocean are ............ ecosystems, (land, aquatic, synthetic)
Answer:River, ponds, ocean are aquatic ecosystems.
In simple words: Rivers, ponds, and oceans are bodies of water that form environments where specific water-dwelling organisms interact with their watery surroundings.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to classify ecosystems based on their primary environment, such as aquatic (water-based) or terrestrial (land-based).

 

Question c.Man is ............ in an ecosystem. (producer, consumer, decomposer)
Answer:Man is consumer in an ecosystem.
In simple words: Humans, like other animals, consume plants or other animals for energy, placing them in the consumer category within an ecosystem.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers is essential for understanding energy flow in an ecosystem.

 

2. Match The Following:

Question a.

Producer	Ecosystem
1. Cactus	a. Forest
2. Aquatic plants	b. Creek
3. Mangroves	c. Aquatic
4. Pine	d. Desert

Answer:

Producer	Ecosystem
1. Cactus	d. Desert
2. Aquatic plants	c. Aquatic
3. Mangroves	b. Creek
4. Pine	a. Forest

In simple words: This matching exercise connects specific types of producer plants with the ecosystems where they typically thrive, highlighting their natural habitats.

🎯 Exam Tip: For matching questions, identify key characteristics of each item (e.g., 'cactus' implies 'desert') to make accurate connections.

 

3. Give My Information:

Question a.Ecosystem.
Answer:Ecosystem is the structure formed by the interrelationships between the living organisms and non-living components in their surrounding habitats. Living organisms are also called biotic factors while the non-living components are called abiotic factors. The abiotic and biotic factors have a reciprocal relationship with each other. The ecosystem has plants as producers, animals as consumers and microbes as decomposers. The decomposers return the substances back to the nature by process of decomposition in which the organic complex molecules are reduced to their inorganic constituents. Thus the dead remains of plants and animals are once again recycled back to the nature in any healthy ecosystem.
In simple words: An ecosystem is a community of living things (biotic factors) interacting with their non-living environment (abiotic factors), where energy and nutrients are constantly recycled.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining an ecosystem, always include the interaction between both biotic and abiotic factors and mention the key roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers.

 

Question b.Biome.
Answer:Biomes are a larger collection of small ecosystems which are similar in their structure. In a particular biome there are same climatic, abiotic factors and similar living organisms. Biomes are of two main types, land biomes and aquatic biomes. The land biomes exist only on land. Land biomes are of following subtypes based on the abiotic factors. E.g. Grasslands, evergreen forests, deserts, Tundra ecosystem, ecosystems in Taiga, tropical rainforests, etc. Aquatic biomes include freshwater ecosystem, marine ecosystem and brackish water ecosystem found in the creeks.
In simple words: Biomes are large regions of the Earth characterized by similar climate, plant, and animal life, grouping together many smaller, similar ecosystems.

🎯 Exam Tip: For biomes, focus on the defining characteristics like climate and dominant vegetation, and provide examples of both terrestrial and aquatic types.

 

Question c.Food web.
Answer:The complex feeding relationships form a food web. In nature in any ecosystem, the food chains are not straight and linear. But these are quite complex. A prey is consumed by a predator but this predator can itself be a prey to some other predator. E.g. Frog is a predator for variety of insects but frog is preyed upon by snake and the snake can be eaten by a bird. The same bird can also feed on insects or frog. The interrelationships between different biotic components of any ecosystem thus form the complicated food web.
In simple words: A food web illustrates the complex, interconnected feeding relationships within an ecosystem, showing how multiple food chains link together.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining food webs, emphasize their complexity compared to simple food chains, and use an example to show how an organism can be both prey and predator.

 

4. Give Scientific Reasons:

Question a.Plants in an ecosystem are called producers.
Answer:are cut down causing deforestation. The wild animals lose their habitat. Many of them become extinct. There is great loss of flora and fauna due to construction of large dams. There is undue pressure on the land surface caused due to stored water column. This may cause earthquakes. The human settlements are removed as their houses and farms are immersed under water. In all the above ways large dams destroy the ecosystems.
In simple words: This answer, while describing the negative impacts of large dams, highlights how significant human activities like deforestation and habitat destruction disrupt natural ecosystems.

🎯 Exam Tip: Although the provided answer is a mismatch for the question, it's important to be able to articulate the wide-ranging environmental consequences of large-scale infrastructure projects like dams, including habitat loss, species extinction, and geological impacts.

 

Question b.Large dams destroy ecosystems.
Answer:When a large dam is constructed, the original landscape is changed. The trees are cut down causing deforestation. The wild animals lose their habitat. Many of them become extinct. There is great loss of flora and fauna due to construction of large dams. There is undue pressure on the land surface caused due to stored water column. This may cause earthquakes. The human settlements are removed as their houses and farms are immersed under water. In all the above ways large dams destroy the ecosystems.
In simple words: Large dams devastate ecosystems by causing deforestation, destroying animal habitats, submerging human settlements, and even potentially triggering earthquakes due to increased water pressure.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining the impact of dams, enumerate multiple consequences such as habitat loss, displacement of species and people, and potential geological changes to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding.

 

Question c.Rhinos were restored in Dudhwa forest.
Answer:Long ago in last century, Dudhwa forest was the natural habitat of the one-horned Rhino. However, due to hunting and poaching, the Rhino became almost extinct. In order to restore it back the breeding in captivity was attempted and the young ones were released in the natural habitat. Saving the precious wildlife is important and hence these efforts were done.
In simple words: Rhinos were reintroduced to Dudhwa forest through captive breeding and release programs to counteract their near extinction caused by historical hunting and poaching.

🎯 Exam Tip: Conservation efforts like reintroduction programs are crucial for protecting endangered species; mention the reasons for their decline (e.g., hunting) and the methods used for restoration.

 

5. Answer The Following:

Question a.What are the effects of increased population (of human beings) on ecosystems?
Answer:1. Human population growth rate is very big as compared to other animals.
2. Moreover, they are apex consumers in an ecosystem. Just like any other organisms, ecosystems provide all the basic needs to humans, too.
3. However, man demands much more due to excessive population. The natural resources are utilized on the large scale only by man.
4. Changing lifestyles, consumerism, degradation of nature and pollution are certain aspects which are created only by human beings.
5. All these cause increased stress on the ecosystems. Large human population also produces large-scale solid wastes.
In simple words: Rapid human population growth, coupled with increased consumption and changing lifestyles, places immense stress on ecosystems through large-scale resource utilization, pollution, and waste generation.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing human impact, provide a range of effects from resource consumption and pollution to habitat degradation, demonstrating a holistic view of the problem.

 

Question b.How is urbanization responsible for destruction of ecosystems?
Answer:When people do not get sufficient food and other amenities, they migrate to the cities. The cities provide employment for many people due to industries, factories and other facilities. Every day many people migrate to cities. This causes urbanization. Due to increased population in cities, there is more need for housing. This results in loss of agricultural lands, marshlands, wetlands, forests and grasslands, etc. The natural ecosystems are lost in an attempt to have developmental work. Human interference causes changes in the ecosystems. When land usage is changed many naturally occurring species of plants and animals are exterminated. Animal- human conflicts are very common in newly established urban areas which are near the natural forests.
In simple words: Urbanization, driven by migration for better opportunities, leads to ecosystem destruction by converting natural lands like forests and wetlands into residential and industrial areas, causing habitat loss and increased human-wildlife conflicts.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the chain reaction of urbanization-driven destruction: migration leads to increased demand for space, which leads to habitat conversion and loss of biodiversity, ultimately causing ecosystem imbalance.

 

Question c.What are the reasons for war?
Answer:There are difference of opinions and competition over land, water, mineral resources, etc. among neighbouring countries. Moreover, there can be economic and political causes which lead to war among different countries. Many times the I religions and ethnicity are also caused for dispute. Due to international conflicts, the peace is disturbed and it results in war.
In simple words: Wars often arise from disputes over resources like land and water, economic and political tensions, or conflicts stemming from religious and ethnic differences between nations.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing reasons for war, categorize them into resource-based, economic/political, and socio-cultural (religious/ethnic) factors to provide a structured answer.

 

Question d.Explain the interactions among the factors of an ecosystem.
Answer:1. The abiotic factors such as air, water, soil, sunlight, temperature, humidity, etc. affect the biotic factors, i.e. the surviving plants, animals and microbes in the ecosystem.
2. The type of abiotic factors in an ecosystem determine the survival of biotic factors. The population of these biotic factors is also dependent on the quality of abiotic factors.
3. The proportion of abiotic factors in an ecosystem fluctuates as biotic factors use up or release particular abiotic factors.
4. Every biotic factor also interacts with its necessary abiotic factors as well as other biotic factors around it.
In simple words: Biotic factors (living organisms) and abiotic factors (non-living elements like air, water, and sunlight) constantly interact, with abiotic factors influencing the survival and population of biotic factors, and biotic factors in turn affecting the availability of abiotic factors.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the two-way street of interaction: how abiotic factors shape biotic life, and how biotic life modifies abiotic conditions, showing a dynamic relationship.

 

Question e.Differentiate between evergreen forests and grasslands.
Answer:

Evergreen forests	Grasslands
1. About seven percent of the Earth's surface is occupied by evergreen forests.	1. About 30 percent of the Earth's surface is covered by grasslands.
2. More than half of the earth's terrestrial plants and animals are seen in evergreen forests.	2. Grazing animals are seen in grasslands.
3. Tropical evergreen forests are dense, multi-layered.	3. Grasslands consist of tall grass. There are wild grasses and there may be some trees.
4. These forests are found in the areas receiving more than 200 cm annual rainfall i.e. very heavy rainfall.	4. There is an average of 20 - 35 inches of rainfall a year in grasslands.
5. Tropical regions show evergreen forests.	5. Several parts of the world have grasslands.

In simple words: Evergreen forests are dense, rain-rich tropical areas with high biodiversity, while grasslands are open areas dominated by grasses, receiving moderate rainfall and supporting grazing animals.

🎯 Exam Tip: For differentiation questions, use a table format and clearly state contrasting points for factors like area coverage, biodiversity, vegetation density, and rainfall.

 

6. Describe The Following Pictures:

Question a.Describe the following pictures
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): पहले चित्र में एक रेगिस्तानी पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र दिखाया गया है, जिसमें ऊंट और कैक्टस जैसे शुष्क क्षेत्रों के अनुकूल पौधे और जानवर हैं। दूसरा चित्र एक जंगल पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र को दर्शाता है, जिसमें हाथी, बाघ और विविध पक्षियों सहित एक झील भी शामिल है, जो पानी और स्थलीय जीवन के बीच संबंध को उजागर करता है।
Answer:The picture no. 1 is showing desert ecosystem, while the picture no. 2 is showing a forest ecosystem where a wetland (a lake) is also shown. In desert ecosystem, the producers are green cactus and a palm tree. Since in desert there are scanty rains, the vegetation is very less. The soil is sandy soil. The consumers of the desert are also limited. In the above picture camel is shown which is a primary consumer in the desert ecosystem. Camel is very well adapted for desert life. There is also the scarcity of water in desert and hence cactus shows xerophytic (suitable to survive in desert) adaptations. In second picture, the forest ecosystem is shown because we can see elephant and tiger in the picture. Also, giant hornbill is sitting on the tree. This forest must be tropical evergreen forest. The rainfall is heavy in such areas and hence different types of wetlands can be seen in forests. Wetlands support variety of life. A separate aquatic ecosystem does exist here which is closely interconnected with the terrestrial ecosystems through food chains and food web. The birds utilize the fish as their prey. The wild animals come to wetlands to quench their thirst. In this picture the plants, grass, etc. are producers, small fishes in the lake are primary consumers. They will be eaten by larger fishes which are secondary consumer in the aquatic ecosystem. The elephant is herbivorous animal and hence it is primary consumer. Snake is the secondary consumer while the birds of prey (eagle that is flying) and tiger are tertiary consumers.
In simple words: The images depict two distinct ecosystems-a desert and a forest with wetlands-showcasing how producers, consumers, and different adaptations are shaped by their respective environments and interconnected through food webs.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing diagrams, identify key organisms, classify their roles (producer, consumer), and explain how they interact with their specific environment (adaptations, food chains).

 

Can You Recall?

Question 1.Which factors do you find in your surroundings?
Answer:In our surroundings there are abiotic and biotic factors. The biotic factors are animals and plants in the surroundings. The invisible bacteria and fungi also have important role in the ecosystem as decomposers. Important abiotic factors are air, water, land, sunlight, etc.
In simple words: Our surroundings are composed of both living (biotic) factors like plants, animals, bacteria, and fungi, and non-living (abiotic) factors such as air, water, land, and sunlight.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure you can provide clear examples for both biotic and abiotic factors and understand the general role of decomposers.

 

Question 2.Are these factors directly or indirectly related to you?
Answer:We are directly or indirectly connected to every single factor in the surrounding in which we reside. For the requirement of food, we are dependent on plants and animals. For our survival we continuously need oxygen, water and other minerals, etc.
In simple words: All environmental factors are directly or indirectly related to us because we rely on plants and animals for food, and on abiotic resources like oxygen and water for our very survival.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize human dependency on both living (food sources) and non-living (air, water) components of an ecosystem to show a complete understanding.

 

Classify:

Question 1.Classify the following into living and non-living factors. Sunlight, Sunflower, Elephant, Lotus, Algae, Stone, Grass, Water, Ant, Soil, Cat, Fern, Air, Lion.
Answer:

Living Factors	Non-living Factors
Sunflower, Elephant, Lotus, Algae, Grass, Ant, Cat, Fern, Lion.	Sunlight, Stone, Water, Soil, Air.

In simple words: Living factors are organisms that exhibit life processes, while non-living factors are the physical and chemical components of an environment.

🎯 Exam Tip: Practice quickly identifying biotic vs. abiotic factors. Remember that anything that grows, reproduces, and responds to stimuli is living; everything else is non-living.

 

Can You Tell?

Question 1.What is the role of microbes in above interaction?
Answer:Microbes play the role of decomposers in the above interactions.
In simple words: Microbes act as decomposers, breaking down dead organic matter and returning nutrients to the ecosystem.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always remember that microbes, including bacteria and fungi, are crucial for nutrient cycling in any ecosystem.

 

Question 2.How do producers obtain abiotic factors?
Answer:Producers obtain solar energy from sunlight. The other nutrients are obtained from soil, water and air.
In simple words: Producers, primarily plants, get energy from sunlight through photosynthesis and absorb essential nutrients and water from the soil and air.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on photosynthesis as the primary way producers acquire energy from sunlight, and absorption for water and minerals from the environment.

 

Question 3.From where do the consumers get their food?
Answer:Consumers get their food from producers and other consumers.
In simple words: Consumers obtain their food and energy by eating either producers (like plants) or other consumers (animals).

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly differentiate between primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores/omnivores), and tertiary consumers based on their food sources.

 

Project:

Question 1.Visit an ecosystem nearby, List the biotic and abiotic factors in it. Show with pictures or sketches, how they are dependant on each other.
Answer:
In simple words: This question encourages hands-on observation to understand ecosystem components and their interdependencies through local fieldwork.

🎯 Exam Tip: While a direct answer isn't expected, demonstrating understanding of biotic and abiotic factors and their interactions is crucial for practical application questions. Document your findings with clear classifications and examples of interdependencies.

 

Question 2.With the help of internet find out the loss of ecosystems due to wars or atomic explosions. Describe in your words.
Answer:
In simple words: This question prompts research into how human conflicts and catastrophic events like atomic explosions cause severe, long-term damage to ecosystems.

🎯 Exam Tip: When researching, focus on specific examples of environmental degradation (e.g., radiation, habitat destruction, pollution) and their long-term effects on biodiversity and ecological balance. Structure your description to highlight different aspects of the damage.

 

Class 8 Science Chapter 18 Ecosystems Important Questions And Answers

Complete The Following By Using The Correct Option:

Question 1.Biotic community is another name for ............ (ecology, ecosystem, population)
Answer:Biotic community is another name Biotic for ecosystem.
In simple words: A biotic community, which refers to all living organisms in an area, together with their physical environment, forms an ecosystem.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that an 'ecosystem' encompasses both the living community (biotic) and the non-living environment (abiotic) interacting as a unit.

 

Question 2.Microbes in an ecosystem are ............ (producers, consumers, decomposers)
Answer:Microbes in an ecosystem are decomposers.
In simple words: Microbes primarily function as decomposers, breaking down dead organic material in an ecosystem.

🎯 Exam Tip: Correctly identifying the role of microbes as decomposers is key to understanding nutrient cycling within ecosystems.

 

Question 3.Many types of ecosystems are found in ............ (oceans, deserts, biosphere)
Answer:Many types of ecosystems are found in biosphere.
In simple words: The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems, encompassing all life and the areas it inhabits on Earth.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize that the biosphere represents the largest scale of ecological organization, containing all of Earth's diverse ecosystems.

 

Question 4............. is a type of grassland ecosystem. (Taiga, Tundra, Desert)
Answer:Taiga is a type of grassland ecosystem.
In simple words: Taiga, also known as boreal forest, is a forest biome characterized by coniferous trees, not primarily a grassland ecosystem. (Note: The answer provided in the source text seems to have a factual error or is referring to a specific definition. Taiga is a forest, not grassland. Tundra has low-growing vegetation. Desert is arid. Grassland is dominated by grass.) Based on the question and options, if Taiga is chosen, it's incorrect as Taiga is boreal forest, Tundra is arctic grassland/shrubland, and Desert is arid. None of the options are *directly* a type of grassland ecosystem in a common sense if the blank is meant for a *kind* of grassland. However, as per verbatim rule, I output the given answer.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be precise with biome classifications. Taiga (boreal forest), Tundra (cold, treeless region), and Desert (arid region) are distinct biomes, each with unique characteristics that differentiate them from typical grasslands.

 

Question 5.Gir forest in Gujarat is the only habitat/shelter for the spectacular .............. (Asiatic lion, Royal Bengal tiger, One-horned rhino)
Answer:Gir forest in Gujarat is the only habitat shelter for the spectacular Asiatic lion.
In simple words: Gir Forest National Park in Gujarat is famously known as the last remaining natural habitat for the Asiatic lion.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate specific national parks or regions with the iconic endangered species they protect, as this demonstrates knowledge of conservation geography.

 

Correct The Following Statements By Changing One Or Two Words:

Question 1.Primary, secondary, tertiary consumers are the abiotic factors of the ecosystem.
Answer:Primary, secondary, tertiary consumers are the biotic factors of the ecosystem.
In simple words: Consumers are living organisms, hence they are considered biotic factors, not abiotic, within an ecosystem.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly understand the difference: biotic factors are living organisms, while abiotic factors are non-living physical and chemical components.

 

Question 2.Most of the ecosystems are simple.
Answer:Most of the ecosystems are complex.
In simple words: Ecosystems are generally complex due to the intricate interactions among diverse living organisms and their non-living environment.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that the interconnectedness of food webs, nutrient cycles, and various species interactions makes most ecosystems highly complex.

 

Question 3.The word ecosystem was brought in the use by Ray Claffam.
Answer:The word ecosystem was brought in the use by A.G. Tansle.
In simple words: The term "ecosystem" was coined and introduced by Arthur G. Tansley, an English botanist.

🎯 Exam Tip: For historical context in science, remember key figures associated with important concepts, like A.G. Tansley for "ecosystem."

 

Question 4.Specific ecosystem developed in a vast area is called a biosphere.
Answer:Specific ecosystem developed in a vast area is called a biomes.
In simple words: A biome refers to a large natural region characterized by specific climate and vegetation, encompassing many similar ecosystems, while the biosphere is the entire global ecological system.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between "ecosystem" (a community of organisms and their environment), "biome" (a large regional grouping of similar ecosystems), and "biosphere" (the entire global system of life).

 

Question 5.Longer summer and limited rain develop very tall plants in the grassland ecosystem.
Answer:Longer summer and limited rain develop dwarf plants in the grassland ecosystem.
In simple words: In grasslands, long summers with limited rainfall typically favor the growth of shorter, drought-adapted plants rather than very tall ones.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand how climatic conditions, especially rainfall and temperature, directly influence the type and height of vegetation in different biomes.

 

Question 6.29 % of the earth surface is covered by water and only 71% has land on it.
Answer:71% of the earth surface is covered by water and only 29 % has land on it.
In simple words: The Earth's surface is predominantly covered by water (71%), with land making up the remaining 29%.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the approximate percentages of land and water coverage on Earth as a basic geographical fact.

 

Question 7.Dams increase the water current in lower area.
Answer:Dams lessen the water current in lower area.
In simple words: Dams significantly reduce the water current downstream by regulating the flow and storing water, impacting aquatic ecosystems below the dam.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider the ecological effects of damming rivers, which include reduced flow downstream, altered sediment transport, and changes in aquatic habitats.

 

Match The Following:

Question 1.

Column 'A'	Column 'B'
1. The Great Himalayan National Park	a. Asiatic lion
2. Kaziranga	b. Tigers
3. Bharatpur	c. Aquatic birds
4. Ranthambore	d. One-horned Rhino
5. Gir forest	e. White panther

Answer:

Column 'A'	Column 'B'
1. The Great Himalayan National Park	e. White panther
2. Kaziranga	d. One-horned Rhino
3. Bharatpur	c. Aquatic birds
4. Ranthambore	b. Tigers
5. Gir forest	a. Asiatic lion

In simple words: This matching exercise correctly links prominent National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries with their most famous or characteristic animal species.

🎯 Exam Tip: For matching questions involving protected areas, focus on memorizing the key species each park is renowned for, especially those that are endangered or unique.

 

Find The Odd One Out:

Question 1.Typha, Pistia, Eichhornia, Dipterocarpus
Answer:Dipterocarpus. (All others are aquatic plants.)
In simple words: Dipterocarpus is a terrestrial tree, while Typha, Pistia, and Eichhornia are all plants that thrive in aquatic environments.

🎯 Exam Tip: To identify the odd one out, determine a common characteristic shared by most items and then find the one that doesn't fit that category.

 

Question 2.Teak, Parthenium, Pine, Sandalwood
Answer:Parthenium. (All others are forest trees.)
In simple words: Parthenium is an invasive weed, whereas Teak, Pine, and Sandalwood are all valuable timber or forest trees.

🎯 Exam Tip: Look for classifications such as plant type (tree vs. weed), habitat, or economic/ecological role to find the odd one out.

 

Question 3.Giraffe, Zebra, Cheetah, Elephant
Answer:Cheetah.. (All others are surviving grassland animals, Cheetah is a forest animal that is extinct from Asia.)
In simple words: Giraffe, Zebra, and Elephant are typically herbivores found in grasslands, whereas the Cheetah is a carnivorous forest animal (though also found in grasslands) and is extinct in Asia.

🎯 Exam Tip: When categorizing animals, consider their diet (herbivore, carnivore) and primary habitat (grassland, forest) to find the outlier.

 

Question 4.Hyena, Cow, Deer, Rabbit
Answer:Hyena. (All others are primary consumers, Hyena is tertiary consumer.)
In simple words: Cow, Deer, and Rabbit are herbivores (primary consumers), while the Hyena is a carnivore/scavenger (secondary or tertiary consumer).

🎯 Exam Tip: Classify animals by their trophic level (producer, primary consumer, secondary consumer, tertiary consumer) to identify the one that doesn't fit the pattern.

 

Question 5.Fusarium, Leptocorsia, Aspergillus, Polycarpus
Answer:Leptocorsia. (All others are decomposers, Leptocorsia is primary consumer.)
In simple words: Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Polycarpus are types of fungi (decomposers), whereas Leptocorsia is an insect (a primary consumer).

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the biological group or ecological role of each item. Fungi are often decomposers, while insects typically fit into consumer categories.

 

Taking Into Consideration The Relationship In The First Pair, Complete The Second Pair :

Question 1.Plants: Producers: : : Consumers
Answer:Animals
In simple words: Just as plants are producers (making their own food), animals are consumers (obtaining food by eating others).

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the fundamental trophic levels: producers (plants) create food, while consumers (animals) eat other organisms.

 

Question 2.Secondary consumers: Jackals :: Tertiary consumer : ............
Answer:Kite/Lion/Hyena
In simple words: If jackals are secondary consumers, then organisms like kites, lions, or hyenas, which typically feed on other carnivores or large prey, represent tertiary consumers.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be able to classify animals into trophic levels based on their diet and position in the food chain (e.g., secondary consumers eat primary consumers, tertiary consumers eat secondary consumers).

 

Question 3.Goat, sheep : Grassland ecosystem : : Tigers : ............
Answer:Forest ecosystem
In simple words: Goats and sheep are characteristic animals of grassland ecosystems, while tigers are typically found in forest ecosystems.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate animals with their typical habitats and the ecosystems they are part of (e.g., herbivores in grasslands, large predators in forests).

 

Question 4.Desert: Land biome :: Creek: ............
Answer:Aquatic biome
In simple words: A desert is an example of a land biome, and similarly, a creek is a type of aquatic biome.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly distinguish between terrestrial (land) and aquatic (water) biomes and provide examples for each category.

Question 5. Limited rain : Grassland ecosystem :: ............: Tropical rainforests
Answer: Excessive rain.
In simple words: Grassland ecosystems are characterized by limited rainfall, whereas tropical rainforests are defined by excessive rainfall.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the climatic factors associated with different ecosystems is key for scoring in environmental science questions.

Answer In One Sentence:

Question 1. What is an ecosystem?
Answer: The structure which is formed due to interactions between abiotic and biotic factors is called an ecosystem.
In simple words: An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with each other and their non-living environment.

🎯 Exam Tip: A precise definition of 'ecosystem' covering both biotic and abiotic interactions is crucial.

Question 2. What is an ecological niche?
Answer: The position of any living organism with reference to other living organisms and the role played by that organism is called ecological niche.
In simple words: An ecological niche describes an organism's specific role and position within its ecosystem, including its interactions with other species and its environment.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on both 'position' and 'role' when defining an ecological niche.

Question 3. How are types of ecosystems formed?
Answer: Types of ecosystems are formed according to size, place, climate, types of plants and animals that survive in that ecosystem.
In simple words: Ecosystem types are determined by factors like their size, geographical location, climate, and the specific plants and animals that inhabit them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Listing the various factors that influence ecosystem formation (size, place, climate, species) will earn full marks.

Question 4. Give examples of land biomes.
Answer: Grasslands, evergreen forests, deserts, Tundra or polar ecosystem, ecosystems in Taiga, tropical rainforests, etc. are land biomes.
In simple words: Land biomes include large terrestrial regions like grasslands, evergreen forests, deserts, tundras, taigas, and tropical rainforests.

🎯 Exam Tip: Providing a diverse set of examples for land biomes demonstrates comprehensive knowledge.

Question 5. What are the reasons for tourism among the people?
Answer: Tourism is mainly because people like to visit scenic places, undertake nature watch, wish to visit to sacred places and for entertainment purpose.
In simple words: People engage in tourism to visit beautiful natural or sacred sites, observe wildlife, and for recreational activities.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the various motivations behind tourism, such as scenic beauty, nature observation, religious sites, and entertainment.

Question 6. Why we should protect natural ecosystems?
Answer: Natural ecosystems must be protected as they maintain balance in the biosphere.
In simple words: Protecting natural ecosystems is essential because they play a critical role in maintaining the overall balance and stability of the Earth's biosphere.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the concept of 'balance in the biosphere' as the primary reason for ecosystem protection.

Give My Information Write Short Notes:

Question 1. Dudhwa forest.
Answer: Dudhwa forest is in Uttar Pradesh. About a century back, Dudhwa forest was the habitat for one-horned Rhino. However, due to hunting and poaching in 20th century, this animal became endangered. Thus to restore their populations, on 1st April 1984 rhino were introduced there again. Rhinos can were bred in captivity followed by releasing them back into natural ecosystem. For this purpose at first the land was selected. This was 27 square km grassland and forest with continuous water supply through natural resources. Two observatories were established for making these efforts successful. Now Dudhwa is known for one-horned Rhino population.
In simple words: Dudhwa Forest in Uttar Pradesh, once home to one-horned rhinos, saw its rhino population endangered by hunting and poaching. A successful restoration project in 1984 involved breeding rhinos in captivity and releasing them into a 27 sq km grassland and forest area with consistent water supply, making it a prominent rhino habitat today.

🎯 Exam Tip: Include the location, the animal it's known for, the problem (endangerment), and the conservation efforts with a key date.

Question 2. Aquatic ecosystems.
Answer: Earth's 71 % of surface is covered over by aquatic ecosystems. They are of three main types, viz. fresh water ecosystem, marine ecosystem and brackish water ecosystem. Rivers, lakes and ponds and streams are some of the fresh water ecosystem. Fresh water contains less salt and hence it is potable. Marine water has more salinity, i.e. its salt content is high. Brackish water ecosystem is present in the creeks. Here the saline and fresh water mix together. Hence salinity here is lesser than that of the marine water.
In simple words: Aquatic ecosystems cover 71% of Earth's surface and are categorized into freshwater (rivers, lakes, ponds), marine (high salinity oceans), and brackish water (creeks where fresh and saline water mix, having moderate salinity).

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention the three main types of aquatic ecosystems and their distinguishing characteristic (salinity levels).

Give Scientific Reasons:

Question 1. Microbes are called decomposers.
Answer: Decomposition is the process in which the organic compounds are broken down to their inorganic constituents. The organic substances such as carbohydrates, proteins and lipids which are locked in the dead remains of plants and animals are converted into hydrogen, oxygen, calcium, iron, sodium, potassium, etc. by microbes. Therefore, microbes are called decomposers.
In simple words: Microbes are called decomposers because they break down complex organic matter from dead plants and animals into simpler inorganic substances like minerals and gases, recycling essential nutrients back into the ecosystem.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly explain the process of decomposition and the role of microbes in nutrient cycling to justify their title as decomposers.

Use Your Brain Power:

Question 1. Which biotic factors get affected due to a dam?
Answer: The biotic factors include plants, animals and humans. Lot of vegetation is submerged from the place where dam is constructed. The forests are wiped out. Large scale deforestation takes place in the proposed dam area. Wildlife is destroyed completely. The resident animals whose habitat are there either migrate away or are killed due to lack of their food and shelter. Many instances of animal-human conflicts arise when the wild animals drift to the neighbouring human settlements. If human settlements are shifted, people are displaced. They lose their houses and agricultural land. Though compensation is given to them, there is great change for the people. Water current in lower area of the dam is reduced due to construction of dam-walls. Therefore, the original lotic (running-5 water) ecosystems that were present are destroyed after the construction of dam.
In simple words: Dam construction severely impacts biotic factors by causing deforestation and submerging vegetation, destroying wildlife habitats and leading to animal-human conflicts. It also displaces human populations and alters downstream aquatic ecosystems by reducing water current.

🎯 Exam Tip: Categorize the impacts on biotic factors: plants (deforestation, submergence), animals (habitat loss, migration, conflict), and humans (displacement, loss of land).

Question 2. What will be the effects on biotic factors in the running water of river?
Answer: The aquatic flora (plants) and fauna (animals) are well adapted to their habitats. The running water ecosystems are known as lotic ecosystems. The non-moving waters on the contrary create lentic ecosystems. Lotic ecosystems provide special adaptations to the plants and animals living therein. Plants are mostly in the form of freely floating algae and phytoplankton. Animals are well adapted for swimming in the currents of water. The fishes especially show a stream-lined body, fins for swimming, and gills to take up dissolved oxygen in the water. The other animals are also well adapted to the currents of water.
In simple words: Running water river ecosystems, called lotic ecosystems, host aquatic flora (like algae and phytoplankton) and fauna (like fish and other animals) that are specifically adapted to strong currents, with features such as streamlined bodies for swimming and efficient oxygen uptake.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between lotic and lentic ecosystems and highlight the specific adaptations of plants and animals to the fast-flowing nature of lotic environments.

Think About It:

Question 1. Can we call a tree an independent ecosystem?
Answer: The huge tree can be an independent ecosystem. On one such tree there may be different habitats. Variety of insects thrive on huge tree by making their habitats in cracks and crevices on the tree. Many birds visit the tree to feed on such insects. There are many bird species that live in the hollow of the tree. Garden lizards, chameleons, snakes are the different reptiles seen associated with the tree ecosystem. Squirrels, rabbits, bats are the mammals which take shelter in and around the trees, also inhabit a tree variety of fungi, lichens, mosses and epiphytic plants like orchids survive on the huge trees. Many food chains and complicated food webs are formed with the support of the tree. Thus one can say that a tree is an independent ecosystem.
In simple words: Yes, a single large tree can be considered an independent ecosystem because it provides multiple habitats for diverse organisms like insects, birds, reptiles, mammals, fungi, and epiphytic plants, supporting various food chains and intricate food webs.

🎯 Exam Tip: To support the claim, list diverse organisms (insects, birds, mammals, fungi) and their interactions (habitats, feeding, food webs) associated with a single tree.

Question 2. Today Divija visited a hill. Honey: bees were hovering on flowers. One of them stung Divijia's hand. Divija was hurt due to that sting and said with anger that all the honey-bees from the whole world must get destroyed. Afterwards, she thought what will happen if all honey-bees are destroyed? We will get honey, nothing more. What would be your explanation to Divija?
Answer: Honey bees provide us with honey and bee-wax. Both of these are commercial products. But more than that the role played by honey bees in the pollination of flowers is very important. Due to their nectar collecting behaviour, they bring about pollination of the flowers. Presence of honey bees is thus very essential for the agriculture and horticulture. Without honey bees, the growth of fruits and grains will not be possible, if pollination and subsequent fertilization does not take place in nature. This will create famine-like conditions. Therefore, honey bees' position in the nature is very important.
In simple words: I would explain to Divija that while honey bees provide honey and beeswax, their most crucial role is pollination, which is vital for agriculture and horticulture. Without bees, many fruits and grains wouldn't grow, leading to widespread food shortages and famine-like conditions, making their presence indispensable for natural balance.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the critical role of honey bees in pollination, linking it directly to food production and the catastrophic consequences of their absence, rather than just honey production.

Chart Based Questions:

Question 1. Complete the following chart in context to a grassland.
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह एक तालिका है जो एक घास के मैदान पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र के घटकों को दर्शाती है, जिसमें उत्पादक, प्राथमिक उपभोक्ता, द्वितीयक उपभोक्ता, तृतीयक उपभोक्ता और अपघटक शामिल हैं। तालिका में प्रत्येक श्रेणी के लिए रिक्त स्थान दिए गए हैं जिन्हें छात्रों को घास के मैदान के संदर्भ में उपयुक्त उदाहरणों से भरना है।
Answer:

Producers	Primary consumers	Secondary consumers	Tertiary consumer	Decomposers
Parthenium, Cynodon, Kusali	Cow, deer, rabbit, Leptocorsia,	Snakes, Birds, Jackals, Wolf,	Lion, Hyena, Vulture, Kite,	Fusarium Aspergillus
Needlegrass, wild oats, foxtail, ryegrass, and buffalo grass (In temperate grasslands)	Bison, Gophers, Grasshoppers, Mouse	Wolves, coyotes, swift foxes, badgers and black-footed ferrets. (In temperate grasslands)	Lions, Cheetah	Vultures, mites, insect larvae, nematodes and earthworms

In simple words: In a grassland ecosystem, producers are various grasses; primary consumers include grazing animals like bison and rabbits; secondary consumers are predators like snakes and wolves; tertiary consumers are apex predators such as lions and hyenas; and decomposers are fungi, bacteria, and insects that break down dead matter.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure that all categories (producers, primary, secondary, tertiary consumers, and decomposers) are filled with relevant examples specific to a grassland ecosystem.

Question 2. Write the information about various components of forest.
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह एक तालिका है जो एक वन पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र के विभिन्न घटकों को प्रदर्शित करती है, जिसमें उत्पादक, प्राथमिक उपभोक्ता, द्वितीयक उपभोक्ता, तृतीयक उपभोक्ता और अपघटक शामिल हैं। इसमें वन में पाए जाने वाले विभिन्न जीवों के उदाहरण दिए गए हैं, जो खाद्य श्रृंखला में उनकी भूमिका को दर्शाते हैं।
Answer:

Producers	Primary consumers	Secondary consumers	Tertiary consumers	Decomposers
Dipterocarpus, Teak, Pine, Sandalwood	Ant, Grasshopper, Spider, Butterfly	Snake, Bird Lizard, Jackal	Tiger, Falcon Cheetah	Aspergillus, Polycarpus
Indian Rosewood, Kikar, Banyan	Insects, deer, rabbits and some small birds	Cobra, Bear	Hawk, Owl, Mongoose	Variety of fungi
Ashwagandha, Cork, Brahmi, Sal, Khair	Rodents, squirrel	Birds, Fox	Tiger, Lion	Variety of bacteria and fungi

In simple words: Forest ecosystems comprise diverse components: producers like various trees (Teak, Pine, Sandalwood), primary consumers such as insects and deer, secondary consumers including snakes and bears, tertiary consumers like tigers and falcons, and decomposers such as fungi and bacteria.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide a variety of examples for each trophic level (producers, consumers, decomposers) relevant to a forest environment for comprehensive coverage.

Question 3. Observe such ecosystems around you and complete the following chart.
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह एक तालिका है जिसे छात्रों को अपने आसपास के पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र का अवलोकन करके और उसके विभिन्न घटकों - उत्पादक, प्राथमिक उपभोक्ता, द्वितीयक उपभोक्ता, तृतीयक उपभोक्ता और अपघटक - के उदाहरणों को भरकर पूरा करना है। इसमें जलीय पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र के लिए प्रारंभिक पंक्तियाँ दी गई हैं।
Answer:

Producers	Primary Consumers	Secondary Consumers	Tertiary Consumers	Decomposers
Aquatic plants, Ulothrix, Hydrilla, Azolla, Nitella, Typha, Pistia, Eichhornia	Aquatic insects, Snails, Annelids,	Small fishes, Frogs	Large fishes, Herons, Crocodiles	Bacteria, fungi,
Cyanobacteria	Small fish larvae	Amphibian Frog	Aquatic birds	Bacteria
Various phytoplankton	Krill	Whale	Sharks	bacteria, fungi, molds, worms, and insects

In simple words: In an aquatic ecosystem, producers include various aquatic plants, algae, and phytoplankton; primary consumers are aquatic insects, snails, and small fish larvae; secondary consumers consist of small fish and frogs; tertiary consumers are larger fish, herons, and crocodiles; and decomposers are bacteria, fungi, molds, worms, and insects.

🎯 Exam Tip: When completing such charts, ensure the examples for each trophic level are ecologically consistent and accurately reflect the food web of the observed ecosystem.

Question 4. Complete the table.
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह एक तालिका है जिसमें राष्ट्रीय उद्यानों/अभयारण्यों के नाम और उनसे संबंधित राज्यों की सूची दी गई है। छात्रों को सही राज्यों के साथ संबंधित राष्ट्रीय उद्यानों का मिलान करके तालिका को पूरा करना है।
Answer:

National Park/Sanctuary	State
1. Gir	Gujarat
2. Dachigam	Jammu-Kashmir
3. Ranthambore	Rajasthan
4. Dajipur	Maharashtra
5. Kaziranga	Assam
6. Sunderbans	Bengal
7. Melghat	Maharashtra
8. Periyar	Kerala

In simple words: The table lists famous national parks and sanctuaries like Gir (Gujarat), Dachigam (Jammu-Kashmir), Ranthambore (Rajasthan), Kaziranga (Assam), Sunderbans (Bengal), and Periyar (Kerala) along with their respective states.

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorizing the correct state for each national park/sanctuary is important for general knowledge and geography-related questions.

Question 5. Complete the following chart:
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह आरेख एक पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र के घटकों को दर्शाता है, जिसमें अजैविक कारक (भौतिक और रासायनिक) और जैविक कारक (स्वपोषी जैसे उत्पादक और विषमपोषी जैसे उपभोक्ता और अपघटक) शामिल हैं। यह विभिन्न घटकों के बीच ऊर्जा प्रवाह और पोषक तत्वों के चक्रण को भी दिखाता है।
Answer:
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह आरेख एक पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र की संरचना को दर्शाता है, जिसमें अजैविक कारक (भौतिक जैसे हवा, पानी, वाष्प, खनिज, मिट्टी, धूप और रासायनिक जैसे हाइड्रोजन, ऑक्सीजन, नाइट्रोजन, कैल्शियम, लोहा, पोटेशियम, सोडियम, प्रोटीन, कार्बोहाइड्रेट, लिपिड) और जैविक कारक (उत्पादक - पौधे, उपभोक्ता - जानवर, अपघटक - सूक्ष्मजीव) शामिल हैं। यह स्वपोषी (उत्पादक) और विषमपोषी (उपभोक्ता, अपघटक) को भी विभाजित करता है और प्राथमिक, द्वितीयक, तृतीयक उपभोक्ताओं को सूचीबद्ध करता है।
In simple words: This chart illustrates an ecosystem's components: abiotic factors (physical-air, water, sunlight; chemical-inorganic and organic substances) and biotic factors (autotrophs like producers/plants, and heterotrophs like consumers/animals and decomposers/microbes, further categorized into primary, secondary, and tertiary consumers).

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the hierarchical classification from ecosystem down to specific factors and their interactions (autotrophic/heterotrophic, physical/chemical) is vital.

Diagram Based Questions:

Question 1. Correct the following diagram:
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह आरेख एक पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र में ऊर्जा और पोषक तत्वों के प्रवाह को दर्शाता है। यह दिखाता है कि जैविक कारक (प्राथमिक, द्वितीयक, तृतीयक उपभोक्ता) और अजैविक कारक (पोषक तत्व, सौर ऊर्जा, CO2, नाइट्रोजन, पानी, खनिज) कैसे परस्पर क्रिया करते हैं। उत्पादक (पौधे) सूर्य के प्रकाश का उपयोग करके भोजन का उत्पादन करते हैं, जिसे जानवर खाते हैं, और अपघटक मृत शरीरों से खनिजों को वापस मिट्टी में छोड़ देते हैं।
Answer:
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह सही किया गया आरेख एक पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र के भीतर घटकों के बीच जटिल अंतःक्रियाओं को दर्शाता है। यह जैविक कारकों (उत्पादक, उपभोक्ता, अपघटक) और अजैविक कारकों (पोषक तत्व, सौर ऊर्जा, CO2, पानी, खनिज) के बीच ऊर्जा प्रवाह, पोषक तत्वों के पुनर्चक्रण और गर्मी के उत्सर्जन को स्पष्ट रूप से चित्रित करता है। इसमें दिखाया गया है कि उत्पादक (पौधे) सूर्य के प्रकाश का उपयोग करते हैं, उपभोक्ता (जानवर) पौधों और अन्य जानवरों को खाते हैं, और अपघटक (सूक्ष्मजीव) मृत जीवों से खनिजों को पर्यावरण में वापस छोड़ते हैं, जबकि सभी प्रक्रियाओं में गर्मी का उत्सर्जन होता है।
In simple words: The corrected diagram shows how an ecosystem functions, illustrating the flow of energy and matter. Producers (plants) use solar energy for food, consumers (animals) eat plants and other animals, and decomposers (microbes) break down dead organic matter, recycling minerals back into the environment, with heat released at each stage.

🎯 Exam Tip: For diagrams depicting ecological cycles, ensure correct arrows for energy flow and nutrient cycling, and clearly label all components (producers, consumers, decomposers, abiotic factors) and their interconnections.

MCQs Based On Experiment:

Question 1. Which one out of the following is not biotic factor?
(a) Humidity
(b) Rabbit
(c) Snake
(d) Bacteria
Answer: (a) Humidity
In simple words: Humidity is a non-living component of an environment, whereas rabbits, snakes, and bacteria are all living organisms, hence biotic factors.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish clearly between biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors. Abiotic factors are physical and chemical components of an ecosystem.

Question 2. Which climatic factor is causing migration of the birds in certain regions of the earth?
(a) Humidity and rainfall
(b) Ambient temperature
(c) Amount of carbon dioxide
(d) Amount of plant matter
Answer: (b) Ambient temperature
In simple words: Birds migrate primarily due to changes in ambient temperature, seeking warmer climates or areas with more abundant food sources during different seasons.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize that temperature changes are a major driver for bird migration, influencing food availability and breeding conditions.

Question 3. Which abiotic factor mainly distinguishes marine water from the fresh water?
(a) Temperature
(b) Dissolved oxygen:
(c) Salinity
(d) Surface tension
Answer: (c) Salinity
In simple words: Salinity, which is the salt content, is the primary abiotic factor that differentiates marine water (high salt) from freshwater (low salt).

🎯 Exam Tip: Salinity is the defining characteristic that separates marine from freshwater ecosystems. Focus on this key difference.

Question 4. Why is creek water different from the river water?
(a) Creek water is more polluted than the river water.
(b) Creek water is less salty than the river water.
(c) Creek water is more saline than the river water.
(d) Creek water is less turbulent than the river water.
Answer: (b) Creek water is less salty than the river water.
In simple words: Creek water is typically less salty than river water, often forming an estuary where freshwater and saltwater mix, resulting in a unique brackish environment.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that creek water usually refers to smaller streams or tidal inlets, which can be less saline if they are influenced by freshwater runoff, or brackish if they mix with marine water.

Question 5. Which land biome shows presence of cacti plants more?
(a) Polar regions
(b) Grasslands
(c) Rainforest
(d) Desert
Answer: (d) Desert
In simple words: Cacti plants are predominantly found in desert biomes, as they possess specialized adaptations to survive in arid conditions with minimal water.

🎯 Exam Tip: Cacti are iconic desert plants, and their presence is a strong indicator of an arid biome, demonstrating adaptations to water scarcity.

Projects:

Collect Information

Question 1. What are the possible threats to grasslands?
Answer: Man tries to use grasslands for agricultural purpose. This transformation causes loss of natural ecosystem. Many animals from grasslands are killed by hunting and poaching. Though now Wildlife Act has protected these animals, many wildlife species are already extinct. There are chances of forest fires which is the greatest threat to grasslands. The global warming may also cause grasslands to become a desert.
In simple words: Grasslands face threats primarily from conversion to agricultural land, illegal hunting, poaching, destructive forest fires, and the adverse effects of global warming, which can lead to desertification.

🎯 Exam Tip: Enumerate a variety of threats to grasslands, including human activities (agriculture, hunting) and environmental factors (fires, global warming).

Question 2. Why did Asian Cheetah become extinct in last century?
Answer: When British ruled India, Asian Cheetah was hunted to a great extent. The kings and British rulers did rampant hunting. The forest lands were also reduced due to encroachment by humans to build their settlements. Dams were constructed. Mega highways, bridges and roads caused loss of habitat for Asian Cheetah. Cheetah needs large thickly forested territory. This was lost due to all man-made activities. All these reasons made Asian Cheetah extinct in last century.
In simple words: The Asian Cheetah became extinct in the last century due to extensive hunting by rulers, massive habitat loss from human encroachment for settlements and infrastructure like dams and highways, which destroyed the large, thickly forested territories essential for their survival.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the twin primary causes of extinction: widespread hunting and significant habitat destruction driven by human expansion and development.

Question 3. Observe Asian Cheetah on internet. Describe it.
Answer: Cheetah is the fastest running feline animal on the earth. Though from Asian regions it is said to be extinct, in African grasslands, its occurrence is still there. But it is endangered animal. By 2016, the global cheetah population is estimated at approximately 7,100 individuals in the wild. Several African countries have taken steps to improve cheetah conservation measures. Cheetah has a slender body, deep chest, spotted coat. Its head is small rounded and on the face there is black tear-like streaks. It has long thin legs and a long spotted tail. Cheetah in India were tamed during Moghul period for assisting in hunting.
In simple words: The cheetah is the world's fastest feline, extinct in Asia but still found in African grasslands, though endangered with a global wild population of about 7,100 in 2016. It is characterized by a slender body, deep chest, spotted coat, small rounded head with black tear streaks, long thin legs, and a long spotted tail.

🎯 Exam Tip: Include key facts about its speed, conservation status, geographical distribution, and distinctive physical characteristics.