Exploring-Biodiversity-Indias-Rich-Natural-Heritage (1).pptx

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1. Exploring Biodiversity: India's Rich Natural Heritage Welcome to a journey into biodiversity, focusing on India's rich natural heritage. We'll explore definitions, values, hotspots, threats, and conservation efforts. Learn how each of us can contribute to protecting our planet's invaluable biodiversity. by Yashvardhan Jain

2. Understanding Biodiversity: Three Key Levels Genetic Diversity Genetic diversity is the variation within a species. A wide range of genes ensures adaptation and survival. Species Diversity Species diversity is the variety of different species in a habitat. A diverse ecosystem is a healthy ecosystem. Ecosystem Diversity Ecosystem diversity includes various habitats and ecological communities. Each plays a critical role in the biosphere.

3. The Intrinsic Value of Biodiversity Ecological Value Biodiversity maintains ecosystem balance. It provides essential services like pollination and climate regulation. Economic Value Biodiversity is a source of food, medicine, and raw materials. It supports agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. Aesthetic & Cultural Value Biodiversity enriches our lives through tourism and recreation. It inspires art, spirituality, and cultural identity. Scientific Value Biodiversity provides insights for research. Discoveries lead to innovations in various fields.

4. India: A Mega-Diversity Nation 1 Mega-Diverse Country India is one of 17 mega-diverse nations. It accounts for a significant portion of the world's biodiversity. 2 Diverse Ecosystems India features the Himalayas, Western Ghats, Thar Desert, and Indo-Gangetic plains. These create varied habitats. 3 Rich Species Count India boasts over 45,000 plant and 91,000 animal species. Highlighting its ecological wealth and importance.

5. Biodiversity Hotspots in India Himalayas The Himalayas are a biodiversity hotspot with unique flora and fauna. Many species are found nowhere else. Indo-Burma The Indo-Burma region has a wealth of species. It faces increasing pressure from human activities. Western Ghats The Western Ghats are rich in endemic species. They are vital for water security and biodiversity. Sundaland Sundaland includes the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It is home to diverse marine and terrestrial species.

6. Threats to Biodiversity: A Looming Crisis 1 Habitat Loss Deforestation and urbanization destroy habitats. This reduces space for wildlife, pushing species to extinction. 2 Pollution Air, water, and soil pollution degrade the environment. Pollutants harm species and disrupt ecological processes. 3 Climate Change Rising temperatures and changing ecosystems threaten biodiversity. Species struggle to adapt, leading to declines. 4 Overexploitation Hunting, fishing, and deforestation deplete resources. Unsustainable practices push species to the brink. 5 Invasive Species Foreign species outcompete native ones. They disrupt ecosystems and cause economic and ecological damage.

7. Endangered Species in India: A Fight for Survival Royal Bengal Tiger Habitat loss and poaching threaten the tiger. Conservation efforts aim to protect remaining populations. Asiatic Lion The Asiatic lion is found only in Gir. Conservation focuses on managing the population and preventing disease. Indian Rhinoceros Poaching for horns endangers the rhino. Strict protection and habitat management are essential. Ganges River Dolphin Pollution and habitat loss affect the dolphin. Cleaning the Ganges is critical for their survival. Great Indian Bustard Habitat destruction threatens the bustard. Conservation includes grassland protection and community involvement.

8. Endemic Species: Unique Treasures of India Nilgiri Tahr The Nilgiri Tahr is found in the Western Ghats. Conservation focuses on habitat protection and population monitoring. Lion-tailed Macaque The Lion-tailed Macaque lives in the Western Ghats. Forest protection and connectivity are key to their survival. Malabar Civet The Malabar Civet is a critically endangered species. Habitat loss and hunting pose major threats. Andaman Wild Pig The Andaman Wild Pig is endemic to the Andaman Islands. Conservation involves habitat protection and population studies.

9. Conserving Biodiversity In-Situ: Protecting Habitats National Parks National Parks like Jim Corbett and Kaziranga protect wildlife and their habitats. They prohibit activities harmful to nature. 1 Wildlife Sanctuaries Wildlife Sanctuaries like Sundarbans and Gir offer protection to specific species. Some human activities are permitted. 2 Biosphere Reserves Biosphere Reserves such as Nilgiri and Nanda Devi integrate conservation and sustainable development. They have multiple zones. 3 Sacred Groves Sacred Groves are traditionally protected forests. Communities protect them due to religious or cultural beliefs. 4

10. Conserving Biodiversity Ex-Situ: Safeguarding Species Zoos & Botanical Gardens Zoos and Botanical Gardens provide care for species outside their habitat. These are key for education and research. Seed & Gene Banks Seed Banks and Gene Banks preserve genetic material. Useful for future restoration and research efforts. Captive Breeding Captive Breeding Programs help increase populations of endangered species. They can be released back into the wild. Cryopreservation Cryopreservation stores genetic material at ultra-low temperatures. It preserves biodiversity for future generations. Protecting our shared future requires individual action, policy changes, and global cooperation. Together, we can create a sustainable world where biodiversity thrives. Biodiversity is the foundation of life on Earth – let’s protect it!