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India is home to four biodiversity hotspots: the Himalayas, the Indo-Burma region, the Western Ghats, and the Sundaland(Andaman and Nicobar Islands). These hotspots are identified based on high species richness and endangerment and they represent areas of significant conservation priority due to extensive habitat loss and human activity. The Himalayas, spanning several Indian states and neighboring countries, are renowned for their diverse ecosystems shaped by altitude variations. The Indo-Burma region, covering parts of northeastern India, boasts lush tropical forests and high levels of endemism. The Western Ghats, along India's western coast, harbor a remarkable variety of habitats and endemic species, making them a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal contribute to the Sundaland hotspot and showcase unique island ecosystems. Conservation efforts in these hotspots focus on protected areas, sustainable practices, and community engagement to safeguard their biodiversity for future generations.
Biodiversity hotspots are regions with exceptional concentrations of unique species in a limited area. India is fortunate to have four hotspots - critical for conservation due to high species richness and threats from habitat loss. These hotspots are vital for the country's ecological health and contribute to its rich natural heritage.
The widely accepted criteria for identifying hotspots are:
The concept of biodiversity hotspots emerged in the late 1980s. In 1988, Norman Myers' paper "Environmentalism: A New World Order?" laid the groundwork for the concept. He identified 10 "hotspots" with high species richness and endangerment. Conservation International (CI) is widely recognized as a pioneer in the concept of biodiversity hotspots. CI adopted Norman Myers’ ideas and papers and championed the concept of biodiversity hotspots soon after. In 2000, a collaboration between CI, Myers, and other researchers resulted in the publication "Hotspots: Earth's Biologically Richest and Most Endangered Terrestrial Ecoregions" in the journal Nature. There are currently 36 recognized biodiversity hotspots worldwide. Conservation International maintains a website with detailed information on each hotspot.
Biodiversity hotspots are regions of the Earth's surface that harbour a significant percentage of the world's known species in a relatively confined area. These hotspots are estimated to contain up to 70% of the Earth's plant, animal, and insect species in just 2.4% of Earth's land surface. These hotspots are deemed to be conservation priorities because most of these areas have already been significantly altered by human activity and are at risk of losing their biodiversity. Biodiversity Hotspots are spread across the world in various tropical and temperate regions.
The above-mentioned CI’s 2000 publication established the now widely accepted criteria for identifying hotspots:
There are 36 recognized biodiversity hotspots around the world, out of which 4 are in India. They are:
India is recognized for its rich biodiversity, with around 24.46% of its geographical area covered by forests and trees. It also boasts four of the world's 36 biodiversity hotspots:
The Himalayas are a vital ecological treasure trove. International cooperation and continued conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the survival of this unique biodiversity hotspot for generations to come.
India's unique geography and climatic conditions contribute significantly to its high prevalence of biodiversity hotspots. Here are some key reasons:
India's four biodiversity hotspots - the Himalayas, the Indo-Burma region, the Western Ghats, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands - are an important part of the country's rich ecological diversity. However, these hotspots face threats from habitat loss, climate change, etc. Project Snow Leopard, Project Elephant, and Project Lion-tailed Macaque are some examples of targeted conservation efforts. Nationally, the Wildlife Protection Act and the National Biodiversity Action Plan provide frameworks for conservation. Community engagement through Joint Forest Management and Biodiversity Management Committees is the need of the hour. Sustainable development practices and mindful consumer choices are key to supporting these initiatives. These hotspots must continue to thrive and provide ecological, economic, and cultural benefits for generations to come.
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