Three of the following criteria have contributed to the recognition of Western Ghats-Sri Lanka and Indo-Burma regions as hotspots of biodiversity:
- Species richness
- Vegetation density
- Endemism
- Ethno-botanical importance
- Threat perception
- Adaptation of flora and fauna to warm and humid conditions
Which three of the above are correct criteria in this context?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2011 Prelims]
(a) 1, 2 and 6
(b) 2, 4 and 6
(c) 1, 3 and 5
(d) 3, 4 and 6
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
Biodiversity hotspot:
To qualify as a biodiversity hotspot, a region must meet two strict criteria:
- It must have at least 1,500 vascular plants as endemics — which is to say, it must have a high percentage of plant life found nowhere else on the planet. A hotspot, in other words, is irreplaceable. Hence, statements 1 and 3 are correct.
- It must have 30% or less of its original natural vegetation. In other words, it must be threatened. Hence statement 5 is correct.
