Select the criteria for selection of Indo-burma region as hotspot of biodiversity by IUCN ?

1. High levels of plant and animal endemism

2. Limited remaining natural habitat

The correct answer is Both 1 and 2.

Key Points

• The Indo-Burma region is designated as a biodiversity hotspot by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to its high levels of plant and animal endemism.
• Endemism refers to the presence of species that are unique to a defined geographic location and not found naturally anywhere else.
• The region also has limited remaining natural habitats, making it an area of critical conservation importance.
• Human activities such as logging, agriculture, and urbanization have significantly reduced the natural habitats in the Indo-Burma region.
• Conserving this biodiversity hotspot is essential for preserving the unique species and ecosystems that are found only in this region.

Additional Information

• Biodiversity Hotspots:
  • A biodiversity hotspot is a biogeographic region with significant levels of biodiversity that is under threat from human activities.
  • To qualify as a biodiversity hotspot, a region must have at least 1,500 species of vascular plants as endemics and it must have lost at least 70% of its original habitat.
• Endemism:
  • Endemism is the ecological state of a species being unique to a defined geographic location, such as an island, nation, country, or other defined zone, or habitat type.
  • Species that are endemic to a region are particularly vulnerable to extinction due to their limited range.
• Conservation Efforts:
  • Conservation efforts in biodiversity hotspots often include habitat protection, restoration projects, and the establishment of protected areas such as national parks and wildlife reserves.
  • Community involvement and sustainable development practices are also crucial for the long-term conservation of these areas.
• Indo-Burma Region:
  • The Indo-Burma region includes parts of eastern India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and southern China.
  • The region is known for its rich biodiversity, including numerous endemic species of plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.