Q.51 Which organism’s species have greater diversity in the Western Ghats than the Eastern Ghats?
1. Mammals
2. Amphibians
3. Reptiles
4. Pisces
Western Ghats vs Eastern Ghats: Greatest Species Diversity
Amphibians exhibit greater species diversity in the Western Ghats compared to the Eastern Ghats, making option 2 correct.
Biodiversity Context
Western Ghats, a UNESCO hotspot, harbor exceptional endemism due to heavy rainfall and stable forests, unlike drier, fragmented Eastern Ghats.
This contrast drives higher diversity across taxa, especially moisture-dependent amphibians thriving in Western Ghats’ shola forests and streams.
Eastern Ghats support fewer endemics overall from aridity and habitat discontinuity.
Correct Answer: Option 2
Amphibians (2) show stark disparity: Western Ghats host ~179 species (65% endemic) vs Eastern Ghats’ far fewer (~60-70 total, lower endemism).
| Taxon | Western Ghats Diversity | Eastern Ghats Diversity | Key Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amphibians | 179 spp., 65% endemic | ~60-70 spp., <40% endemic | Moisture gradients favor Western endemics |
| Reptiles | 157 spp., 62% endemic | Comparable but lower endemism | Less disparity than amphibians |
| Fishes (Pisces) | 219 spp., 53% endemic | High but river-dissected similarity | Aquatic overlap reduces gap |
| Mammals | 31 threatened spp. | Fewer endemics overall | Large mammals span both ranges |
Option Explanations
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Option 1 (Mammals): Incorrect—mammals show moderate disparity; many species (e.g., tiger, elephant) occur across both ghats.
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Option 2 (Amphibians): Correct—extreme endemism in Western Ghats (e.g., caecilians, bush frogs) unmatched in East.
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Option 3 (Reptiles): Incorrect—reptile diversity elevated in West but Eastern Ghats host unique snakes/lizards with closer totals.
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Option 4 (Pisces): Incorrect—fish diversity high in both due to shared river systems; Western edge only modestly higher.
Western Ghats’ amphibian hotspot status underscores conservation priority for this climate-sensitive group.
