Q.39 The area that contains at least 1500 species of vascular plants as endemic species along
with at least 70% of habitat loss is designated as :-
(1) National Park
(2) Biosphere Reserve
(3) Biodiversity Hotspot
(4) Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA)
Biodiversity Hotspot: Defined by 1500 Endemic Plants and 70% Habitat Loss
Conservation biology identifies priority areas for protection. The question “The area that contains at least 1500 species of vascular plants as endemic species along with at least 70% of habitat loss is designated as” tests precise criteria knowledge. The correct answer is (3) Biodiversity Hotspot. This concept, coined by Norman Myers in 1988, guides global efforts to save threatened biodiversity.
What Makes a Biodiversity Hotspot?
Hotspots are regions with exceptional plant endemism and severe habitat destruction. Strict criteria:
-
≥1,500 endemic vascular plant species (50% of total vascular plants).
-
≥70% original habitat loss.
Currently, 36 hotspots cover just 2.4% of Earth’s land but host 50% of plants and 42% of vertebrates. Think Western Ghats (India) or Madagascar.
Correct Answer: Option (3) Explained
(3) Biodiversity Hotspot
This matches exactly. Endemic species (found nowhere else) + massive habitat loss = hotspot status. Examples:
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Cape Floristic Region: ~6,000 endemic plants, 80% habitat gone.
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Himalayan Hotspots: Including Eastern Himalaya with thousands of unique species under threat.
Hotspots prioritize funding—e.g., Conservation International uses this framework.
Why Not the Other Options?
These protected areas don’t require those specific endemic/habitat criteria:
-
(1) National Park
Government-protected for wildlife conservation (e.g., Yellowstone). Focuses on ecosystems, not strict endemic plant counts or % loss. Varies by country. -
(2) Biosphere Reserve
UNESCO designation with core, buffer, transition zones for sustainable development. Emphasizes human-nature harmony (e.g., Nilgiri Biosphere). No 1,500 endemic or 70% loss requirement. -
(4) Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA)
Indian regulatory term under EIA notifications. Protects fragile ecosystems from development (e.g., Western Ghats ESA). Based on vulnerability, not precise endemic thresholds.
| Designation | Key Focus | Endemic Plants Req? | Habitat Loss Req? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotspot | Global conservation priority | ≥1,500 | ≥70% |
| National Park | Wildlife protection | No | No |
| Biosphere Reserve | Sustainable use | No | No |
| ESA | Development regulation | No | Varies |
Why Hotspots Matter for Exams and Conservation
India boasts 4 hotspots (Himalaya, Indo-Burma, Sundaland, Western Ghats) with ~15,000 endemic plants. Understanding criteria helps in UPSC, NEET ecology sections. Hotspots face urgent threats—protecting them saves evolution’s treasures.
