RBSE Solutions Class 8 Science Chapter 5 Biodiversity

I. Multiple Choice Questions

 

Question 1. The species which is not found in natural habitat but is present in conserved area is called-
(a) Endangered
(b) Extinct
(c) Extinct in natural habitat
(d) Endemic
Answer: (c) Extinct in natural habitat
In simple words: When a type of plant or animal cannot be found in its natural home anymore, but still lives in places like zoos or special reserves, it is called extinct in the wild. This means it needs human help to survive.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the precise definitions of terms like "endangered," "extinct," and "extinct in natural habitat" to avoid common confusions in biology questions.

 

Question 1. Which of the following is Endangered species?
(a) Neem
(b) Khejdi
(c) Indrok
(d) Ber
Answer: (c) Indrok
In simple words: Among the given options, 'Indrok' is a term sometimes used for the Indian rhinoceros, which is an animal at high risk of disappearing. The other options are common trees, not endangered species.

🎯 Exam Tip: Familiarize yourself with examples of endangered species in your local region or country, as these are often tested.

 

Question 2. Fill in the blanks:
1. Record of all the endangered species are kept in....
2. Those plants and animals species whose any representative member is no longer alive is called....
3. The plants and animals species which are found exclusively in a particular area are called...................to that area.
4. There are............... .biodiversity hotspots in the whole world.
Answer:
1. Red Data Book
2. extinct
3. endemic
4. (Not provided in source)
In simple words: The Red Data Book keeps track of species that are in danger. If no member of a species is alive, it's called extinct. Species found only in one area are endemic. There are specific places around the world known for having many different kinds of life, called biodiversity hotspots.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that "endemic" means unique to a specific region, while "extinct" means completely gone. The Red Data Book is a key tool for conservationists.

 

Question 1. What are the conserved and protected areas for the plants and animals?
Answer: Many national and international organizations work to save forests and wildlife. Governments create rules, laws, and policies for conservation, and everyone should follow these and help others understand their importance. Places like wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, zoos, and botanical parks are designated areas for protecting plants and animals. These areas help keep diverse species safe for the future.
In simple words: Special places like national parks, sanctuaries, zoos, and botanical gardens are set up by governments and groups to protect plants and animals.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about protected areas, name specific examples like National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, and explain their general purpose.

 

Question 2. What is the Red Data Book?
Answer: The Red Data Book is a special record that lists all species considered endangered. It has separate sections for different types of organisms, such as plants, animals, and other species, so it's a very detailed list. This book helps scientists and conservationists understand which species need urgent protection.
In simple words: The Red Data Book is a list of all plants and animals that are in danger of disappearing from Earth.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always mention that the Red Data Book lists "endangered species" and is a critical tool for conservation efforts.

 

Question 3. What are the biodiversity hotspots?
Answer: Biodiversity hotspots are specific geographic areas that are very rich in different kinds of life (biodiversity) and also face a high risk of destruction due to human activities. These regions are extremely important because they hold a large number of endemic species, meaning species found nowhere else. Protecting these areas is crucial for global biodiversity conservation.
In simple words: Biodiversity hotspots are special places with many different kinds of plants and animals that are also in great danger from human actions.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize both aspects of biodiversity hotspots: high biodiversity and high threat level, making them priorities for conservation.

 

Question 4. Why the botanical gardens were established?
Answer: Botanical gardens were created to protect plant species that are naturally facing extinction or are already endangered. There are about 1600 botanical gardens worldwide today. They are important for maintaining seed banks and conserving plant diversity, often focusing on research and education. For example, the Professor J. C. Bose Botanical Garden in West Bengal covers a vast area of about 269 acres, showing the scale of these conservation efforts.
In simple words: Botanical gardens were made to save plant species that are dying out or are in danger, by keeping their seeds and studying them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the twin roles of botanical gardens: conservation of endangered plant species and their function as seed banks for future generations.

 

Biodiversity Long Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. What are the causes and harmful effects of deforestation? Write a note.
Answer: Deforestation means cutting down forests and clearing the land for other uses. This is a big problem for the environment. The main reasons trees are cut down include: 1. Forest fires, which can be natural or man-made. 2. Severe droughts, which weaken trees and make them more vulnerable.
The harmful effects, or consequences, of deforestation are: 1. It destroys the natural homes of many plants and animals, making them lose their shelter. 2. It increases pollution because fewer trees mean less carbon dioxide is absorbed, leading to higher levels in the air and contributing to global warming. Trees are crucial for maintaining the oxygen-carbon dioxide balance. 3. Higher temperatures on Earth can disrupt the water cycle, potentially causing less rainfall and leading to droughts. 4. The level of groundwater can decrease because fewer tree roots mean less water seeps into the soil. 5. It causes soil erosion and floods. Without trees to hold the soil, rain washes it away easily. Over time, fertile land can turn into deserts, a process called desertification. 6. The soil loses its ability to grow plants well, meaning its fertility drops. 7. The water-holding capacity of the soil decreases. Tree roots usually help water soak deep into the ground. When trees are gone, water flows over the surface, causing floods. 8. Many useful products we get from trees, like wood, medicines, and fruits, are lost when forests are cleared.
In simple words: Deforestation is cutting down trees. It happens because of fires or droughts. It harms animals' homes, makes air dirtier, changes weather, dries up groundwater, causes soil to wash away, and stops the soil from holding water well. We also lose useful things from trees.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly define deforestation, then list distinct causes and a range of environmental consequences, such as global warming, soil erosion, and habitat loss.

 

Question 2. What efforts have been taken for biodiversity conservation? Write in detail.
Answer: The Indian government has made several important efforts to protect its rich biodiversity. The Wildlife Protection Act was passed in 1972, making hunting illegal. To conserve biodiversity, the government has set up National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves.
* **National Parks:** These are special areas strictly protected to preserve the entire ecosystem. This includes all plants, animals, landscapes, historical buildings, and natural features. No grazing or farming is allowed here. India has about 92 national parks.
* **Wildlife Sanctuaries:** These areas provide safe conditions for wild animals to thrive, completely prohibiting hunting. Animals that are close to extinction receive special protection here. Private land ownership is allowed to some extent, as long as it does not harm the animals. India has around 492 wildlife sanctuaries.
* **Biosphere Reserves:** These are designated areas where multiple uses of land are permitted to conserve biodiversity, including traditional ways of life for local people. These reserves also support ecological and environmental research. They are set up under programs like UNESCO's "Man and Biosphere" (MAB). India has 243 biosphere reserves that protect specific areas and facilitate research. These protected areas play a crucial role in safeguarding diverse life forms and their habitats.
In simple words: India protects its nature by passing laws like the Wildlife Protection Act and by creating special areas. These areas include National Parks for whole ecosystems, Wildlife Sanctuaries for animals, and Biosphere Reserves which also help local people.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the three main types of protected areas (National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves) and a key law like the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Briefly explain the purpose of each type of area.

I. Multiple Choice Questions

 

Question 1. Who has issued the list of endangered species?
(a) IUCN
(b) IUPAC
(c) UNICEF
(d) CUIN
Answer: (a) IUCN
In simple words: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is the organization that creates and updates the list of plants and animals that are in danger of extinction.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know the full form of IUCN and its primary role in assessing and listing endangered species globally.

 

Question 2. Degradation of biodiversity occurs because of-
(a) hunting of animals
(b) deforestation
(c) pollution
(d) all of the options
Answer: (d) all of the options
In simple words: The variety of life on Earth gets harmed by many things. Hunting animals too much, cutting down forests, and making the environment dirty through pollution all lead to a loss of biodiversity.

🎯 Exam Tip: When evaluating threats to biodiversity, consider a broad range of human activities, as multiple factors often contribute to its decline.

 

Question 3. Conservation means-
(a) we have to stop the use of resources completely.
(b) we have to use the resources wisely and judiciously.
(c) we have to protect the resources by just not using it as per our demands.
(d) all of the options.
Answer: (b) we have to use the resources wisely and judiciously.
In simple words: Conservation means using natural resources smartly and carefully so that they last for a long time and are available for future generations. It's not about stopping use completely, but about managing it well.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between complete non-use (preservation) and sustainable, wise use (conservation) when defining these concepts.

 

Question 4. Species which are restricted to a particular geographical region are called-
(a) endangered species
(b) vulnerable species
(c) endemic species
(d) extinct species
Answer: (c) endemic species
In simple words: If a type of plant or animal is found only in one specific area and nowhere else in the world, it is called an endemic species to that region.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Endemic" is a key term in biogeography; understand that it implies exclusivity to a defined geographical area.

 

Question 5. In our national park, protection is provided to-
(a) flora only
Answer: (a) flora only
In simple words: National parks protect not just plants (flora) but also animals (fauna) and the entire natural environment of an area. They aim to keep the whole ecosystem safe.

🎯 Exam Tip: While national parks protect plants, their primary goal is usually the conservation of the entire ecosystem, including animals and landscape. Be aware of the broader scope.

 

Question 6. Animals are protected from poachers in:
(a) Zoological Parks
(b) Botanical Parks
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) None of the options
Answer: (a) Zoological Parks
In simple words: Animals are kept safe from illegal hunting (poaching) in Zoological Parks, which are like zoos. Botanical Parks are for plants. Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks also protect animals from poachers in larger natural areas.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider the specific function of each type of park: Zoological Parks house animals, while Botanical Parks focus on plants.

 

Question 7. The Wildlife (Protection) Act was passed by the government of India in
(a) 1992
(b) 1982
(c) 1972
(d) 1999
Answer: (c) 1972
In simple words: The important law to protect wildlife in India, called the Wildlife (Protection) Act, was first put into effect in the year 1972. This act has been amended since then to further strengthen conservation efforts.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember important dates like 1972 for key legislation, as they are frequently asked in general knowledge and environmental studies sections.

 

Question 8. Movement of animals periodically to escape severe climatic conditions is called-
(a) eutrophication
(b) migration
(c) hybridisation
(d) conservation
Answer: (b) migration
In simple words: When animals move from one place to another at certain times of the year, usually to find better weather or food, it is called migration. Many birds and some mammals do this.

🎯 Exam Tip: Migration is a behavioral adaptation to environmental changes; understand it as a seasonal movement for survival.

 

Question 9. Jim Corbett National Park is situated in
(a) U.P
(b) Uttarakhand (Tiger resources)
(c) M.P
(d) Bihar
Answer: (b) Uttarakhand (Tiger resources)
In simple words: Jim Corbett National Park, famous for its tigers, is located in the state of Uttarakhand in India. It was India's first national park and is known for its rich wildlife.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know the location and a key feature (like tiger conservation) of prominent national parks in India.

 

Question 10. Red Panda is an.............species in India
(a) endangered
(b) endemic
(c) epidemic
(d) extinct
Answer: (a) endangered
In simple words: The Red Panda is an animal found in India that is at a very high risk of becoming extinct. This means it is an endangered species and needs protection to survive.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be able to classify well-known animals like the Red Panda into appropriate conservation categories such as 'endangered' or 'vulnerable'.

 

Question 12. The animals living naturally in a particular habitat are called-
(a) Endangered species
(b) Vulnerable species
(c) Endemic species
(d) Extinct species
Answer: (c) Endemic species
In simple words: Animals that naturally live only in a specific area and are not found anywhere else are known as endemic species to that habitat.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly differentiate between terms like 'endemic' (unique to a region), 'endangered' (at risk), and 'extinct' (no longer existing).

 

Question 13. Species which are restricted to a particular geographical region are called-
(a) flora
(b) endangered species
(c) fauna
(d) none of these
Answer: (d) none of these
In simple words: Species that are found only in a specific geographical area are called endemic species. Since this option is not given, 'none of these' is the correct choice among the provided options.

🎯 Exam Tip: When the most accurate term (like 'endemic species' in this case) is not an option, carefully evaluate if 'none of these' is the correct choice over other factually incorrect options.

 

Question 14. The function of tree plantation is celebrated through:
(a) Environment Day
(b) Social Forestry programme
(c) Vana Mahotsava
(d) Vani
Answer: (c) Vana Mahotsava
In simple words: Vana Mahotsava is a yearly festival in India focused on planting trees. It is celebrated to encourage more people to plant trees and protect the environment.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know the specific names of environmental campaigns and days, as they often come up in current affairs and environmental studies.

 

Question 15. The restricted distribution of the species in a small area is called
(a) biome
(b) niche
(c) endemism
(d) ectosphere
Answer: (c) endemism
In simple words: The situation where a species naturally lives only in a very small or limited area is known as endemism. This makes them unique to that specific place.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that "endemism" specifically refers to the characteristic of being unique to a geographical region, often a small one.

 

Biodiversity Very Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. Defined biodiversity?
Answer: Biodiversity refers to all the different kinds of plants and animal species living in a particular area. It includes the variety of genes, species, and ecosystems. This variety is crucial for the health of our planet.
In simple words: Biodiversity is simply the wide variety of all living things, like plants and animals, in a certain place.

🎯 Exam Tip: A concise definition of biodiversity should highlight the variety of life, including plants and animals, within an ecosystem or area.

 

Question 2. What are the endangered animals?
Answer: Endangered animals are those species whose total population count is rapidly decreasing. If these numbers fall below a certain safe limit, they are at a very high risk of becoming extinct, meaning they could disappear forever. Their populations need urgent protective measures.
In simple words: Endangered animals are types of animals whose numbers are getting very low, and they might soon disappear forever if not protected.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining "endangered," emphasize both the decreasing population and the high risk of extinction.

 

Question 3. Write two natural causes of deforestation.
Answer: Two natural causes of deforestation are:
(a) Droughts: Long periods without rain can dry out and kill large areas of forest.
(b) Forest fire: Natural fires, often caused by lightning or extreme heat, can destroy vast forest areas. These natural causes significantly reduce forest cover.
In simple words: Two natural reasons for forests to disappear are long dry spells (droughts) and natural forest fires.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between natural causes (like drought and fire) and human causes (like logging and agriculture) when discussing deforestation.

 

Question 4. What is global warming?
Answer: Global warming is the continuous increase in the Earth's average temperature. This happens mainly because there is more carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, causing the planet to get hotter, which has wide-ranging impacts on climate and ecosystems.
In simple words: Global warming is when the Earth's temperature gets hotter because too much carbon dioxide traps heat in the air.

🎯 Exam Tip: In your definition, link global warming directly to the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide and the resulting rise in Earth's temperature.

 

Question 6. Why is species become endangered?
Answer: Species become endangered primarily because their survival becomes difficult due to disturbances in their natural living places, or habitats. This can be caused by habitat loss, pollution, hunting, or climate change, making it harder for them to find food, shelter, and reproduce. Every living thing needs a stable home to thrive.
In simple words: Animals become endangered because their homes get disturbed, making it hard for them to live and survive.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on "habitat disturbance" and "survival difficulty" as the core reasons for a species becoming endangered.

 

Question 7. What do you mean by region specific animals?
Answer: Region-specific animals are those that can only live and thrive in a particular geographic area. They are specially adapted to the conditions of that region and cannot easily survive elsewhere. Examples include the snow leopard, which lives in cold mountainous regions, and dolphins found in specific river systems like the Ganga. These animals have evolved to suit their unique environments.
In simple words: Region-specific animals are types of animals that can only live in a certain part of the world, like snow leopards in mountains or dolphins in the Ganga river.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define "region specific" by highlighting the animals' exclusive adaptation and presence in a particular geographical area, and provide clear examples.

 

Question 8. If we cut down the trees, then what will happen?
Answer: If trees are cut down, the region will experience several negative changes. There will be less rainfall, leading to drier conditions. Without trees, the soil's ability to absorb water decreases, which can cause more floods as water runs off the surface. Humidity will also reduce, making the air drier. All these factors will lower the groundwater level in that region, affecting water availability for all living things.
In simple words: Cutting down trees leads to less rain, more floods, drier air, and lower water underground.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect deforestation to its multiple ecological consequences: reduced rainfall, increased flooding, decreased humidity, and lower groundwater levels.

 

Question 9. Define flora.
Answer: Flora refers to all the different kinds of plant life that naturally grow in a particular area or during a specific period. It includes trees, flowers, grasses, and all other vegetation that makes up the plant kingdom of a region. Understanding a region's flora is key to its ecological study.
In simple words: Flora means all the plants that grow naturally in a certain area.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that "flora" specifically means plants, while "fauna" refers to animals. Keep their definitions distinct.

 

Question 10. What is fauna?
Answer: Fauna refers to all the different types of animal life that naturally exist in a particular area or during a specific time. It includes mammals, birds, fish, insects, and all other creatures. Together with flora, fauna forms the biodiversity of a region, showing the variety of animal species.
In simple words: Fauna means all the animals that live naturally in a certain area.

🎯 Exam Tip: Just as flora is for plants, "fauna" is the collective term for all animal life in a given region.

Aims Of Conservation

1. To preserve the quality of environment, i.e., maintain pollution free environment.
2. To ensure a continuous yield of useful plants, animals and materials for generations to come.

 

Question 2. Define national parks and sanctuaries in India.
Answer: In India, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries are crucial protected areas.
* **National Parks:** These are areas strictly set aside for the welfare of wildlife, where human activities like forestry, grazing, or farming are generally not allowed. Private land ownership is also prohibited. India has about 89 national parks. Famous ones include Gir National Park for Asiatic lions, Kaziranga National Park for rhinoceros, and Corbett National Park for tigers. These parks protect entire ecosystems.
* **Sanctuaries:** These areas focus on protecting only fauna (animals) and providing suitable conditions for them to thrive. Activities like harvesting timber or collecting minor forest products are allowed to a limited extent, and private ownership rights are permitted, but only if they do not harm the animals. India has about 492 wildlife sanctuaries. These places specifically aim to save animals, especially those close to extinction. Both types of areas play a vital role in preserving India's rich natural heritage.
In simple words: National Parks are strict areas protecting all nature, where human activities are very limited. Sanctuaries mostly protect animals, allowing some human activity if it doesn't harm wildlife.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate National Parks from Sanctuaries by emphasizing the former's protection of entire ecosystems and stricter regulations, versus the latter's focus on fauna with slightly more flexible rules.

 

Question 3. Name the animal and plant species of following animal group?
(a) endangered
(b) region specific
(c) extinct in natural habitat
(d) extinct
Answer:

In simple words: This table shows examples of animals and plants grouped by their conservation status or distribution. Some are endangered (like the Asiatic lion), others are found only in specific regions (like the snow leopard), and some are now extinct (like the woolly mammoth).

🎯 Exam Tip: Be ready to provide specific examples of species for different conservation categories (endangered, endemic, extinct) for both flora and fauna.

 

Question 4. What are migratory birds? Write the name of some migratory birds.
Answer: Migratory birds are those that fly long distances to different areas at certain times each year. They do this mainly to escape harsh weather conditions or to find better feeding and breeding grounds. This movement helps them survive extreme seasons. Some examples of migratory birds include Siberian cranes, Arctiction, Bar-headed Geese, and Surkhab.
In simple words: Migratory birds fly far away every year because of weather changes. Examples are Siberian cranes and Bar-headed Geese.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define migration as a seasonal movement, and be able to list at least two examples of migratory birds.

 

Question 5. Write the objectives of biosphere reserve.
Answer: A Biosphere Reserve is a specially protected area created to conserve the variety of life (biodiversity). The main goals of a biosphere reserve are:
(a) To protect and maintain biodiversity, including all plants, animals, and tiny organisms, ensuring their natural populations and functions are sustained.
(b) To promote education, training, and raise awareness about environmental issues and eco-friendly ways of living. This involves research and community participation. Biosphere reserves are unique because they combine conservation with sustainable development and scientific research.
In simple words: Biosphere reserves aim to save all kinds of plants, animals, and tiny living things. They also teach people about the environment and how to live in a nature-friendly way.

🎯 Exam Tip: Key objectives for biosphere reserves include biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and environmental education/research.

 

Question 6. Explain the cow diversity in Rajasthan.
Answer: Rajasthan is home to several distinct breeds of cows, each with unique characteristics:
1. **Kankrej:** These cows are found in the Barmer, Pali, and Jalore districts. They are known for being tall and strong, with broad chests, straight backs, and small black tails. Farmers appreciate them because they can walk fast and carry heavy loads. 2. **Malvi:** Famous in the Malvi region of Jhalawar, these cows have straight backs, light build, stiff and short legs, broad chests, small sharp ears, and tails that reach their ankles. These features make them distinctive in the region. 3. **Rathi:** These cows are highly valued for giving large quantities of milk. They are a mixed breed, combining traits from Sahiwal, Lal Sindhi, and Haryana breeds. Rathi cows are almond-colored and spotted, and are considered among the best milk-producing cows in India, yielding 25 to 30 pounds of milk daily. They have long tails and large stomachs. The bulls of this species are also quite heavy.
In simple words: Rajasthan has different types of cows like Kankrej (strong, good for carrying loads), Malvi (unique body features), and Rathi (known for giving a lot of milk).

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing livestock diversity, mention the region where each breed is found and highlight 1-2 key distinguishing features or uses.

 

Question 1. The threatened species of organisms have been placed in how many categories? Explain in detail.
Answer: The IUCN Red List categorizes threatened species into several groups based on their risk of extinction. These categories help conservationists prioritize efforts. The main threatened categories are:
* **Critically Endangered Species:** These species face the highest risk of extinction in the wild, as their numbers have dramatically decreased. Examples include the Andean catfish and Abes Salamander.
* **Endangered Species:** These species are represented by fewer individuals due to unfavorable factors, making them likely to become extinct if protective measures are not taken. Examples include the Indian rhinoceros and the Great Indian Bustard.
* **Vulnerable Species:** These species are likely to become endangered if their protection is not improved. Examples include the chinkara deer, blackbuck, and blue pheasant.
The IUCN Red List also includes other categories like:
* **Extinct Species:** These are species that have completely disappeared from Earth, like the Dodo bird. Other examples are the two-horned rhinoceros of Africa and the pink-headed duck.
* **Extinct in the Wild:** These species no longer exist in their natural habitats but might be found in captivity or conserved areas.
* **Near Threatened Species:** These are species close to meeting the criteria for threatened categories, meaning they might become endangered soon. Examples include the golden cat and tiger.
* **Least Concern Species:** These are species that have been evaluated and are not at risk of extinction.
In simple words: Animals and plants at risk are put into different groups like 'critically endangered', 'endangered', and 'vulnerable'. There are also groups for species already gone ('extinct') or nearly gone ('near threatened'), and those not at risk ('least concern').

🎯 Exam Tip: List the main threatened categories (Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable) and provide one clear example for each to demonstrate understanding.

 

Question 2. How can we overcome the problems of deforestation?
Answer: The problem of deforestation can be effectively addressed through reforestation. Reforestation is the process of replanting new trees to restore forests that have been cut down or destroyed. This helps to bring back the ecological balance and rebuild habitats. Additionally, encouraging community participation and sustainable forest management practices ensures long-term success.
In simple words: We can solve deforestation by planting new trees in deforested areas. This process is called reforestation.

🎯 Exam Tip: The primary solution to deforestation is reforestation; also mention sustainable forest management as a complementary strategy.

In India, we have the following acts aimed at:
1. Preservation and conservation of forests, and
2. to meet the basic needs of the people living in and around the forest areas.
(a) Forest (Conservation) Act, 1927.
(b) Wild (Protection) Act, 1972 (amended in 1991).

 

Question 3. What are steps taking by the government towards conserving biodiversity?
Answer: The Government of India has taken significant steps to conserve biodiversity. In 1972, the Wildlife Protection Act was passed, completely banning hunting of wild animals. The government has also established National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves to protect diverse ecosystems.
* **National Parks:** These are protected areas strictly reserved for preserving flora, fauna, landscapes, and even historical monuments. No grazing or cultivation is allowed. India has about 92 national parks.
* **Wildlife Sanctuaries:** These provide protection and suitable conditions for wild animals, especially those nearing extinction. Hunting is strictly prohibited. About 492 wildlife sanctuaries exist in India.
* **Biosphere Reserves:** These are specified areas where land is used in multiple ways to preserve biodiversity, including protecting traditional lifestyles of local people. These reserves, set up under UNESCO's "Man and Biosphere" (MAB) program, also serve as sites for ecological and environmental research. India has 243 biosphere reserves. These combined efforts aim to safeguard India's natural heritage and promote ecological balance.
In simple words: The government passed the Wildlife Protection Act, banning hunting. It also created special areas like National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves to protect plants, animals, and their natural homes.

🎯 Exam Tip: Detail the specific government initiatives: the Wildlife Protection Act and the establishment of different types of protected areas, along with their roles.

 

Question 4. Differentiate between the following
(a) wildlife sanctuary and biosphere reserve.
(b) zoo and wildlife sanctuary.
(c) endangered species and extinct species.
Answer:
(a) **Difference between wildlife sanctuary and biosphere reserve.**

(b) **Difference between zoo and wildlife sanctuary.**

(c) **Difference between endangered and extinct species.**

In simple words: Wildlife sanctuaries protect animals in their natural homes, while biosphere reserves protect both nature and local human cultures. Zoos keep animals in cages for people to see, but sanctuaries let animals live freely. Endangered species are those close to disappearing, while extinct species have already vanished forever.

🎯 Exam Tip: For differentiation questions, use clear, concise points in a tabular format, highlighting the key distinctions between the terms. Provide an example for species-related differences.