Assertion (A): Biodiversity is the variety of life forms on
Earth, including different species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity.
Reason (R): Biodiversity is important for ecosystem stability
and the survival of species.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Biodiversity encompasses species, ecosystems, and
genetic diversity, all of which contribute to ecosystem stability and
resilience.
Assertion (A): Hotspots of biodiversity are regions with a
large number of species, especially endemics.
Reason (R): Biodiversity hotspots are areas that are rich in
species but are also threatened by human activities.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Hotspots contain a high number of endemic species
but are under threat from habitat destruction and other human activities,
requiring urgent conservation efforts.
Assertion (A): India is considered one of the 17 megadiverse
countries in the world.
Reason (R): India is home to a large variety of ecosystems and
a wide range of species.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: India hosts numerous species and ecosystems,
including tropical forests, deserts, and wetlands, making it a megadiverse
country.
Assertion (A): Genetic diversity is crucial for the adaptation
of species to changing environmental conditions.
Reason (R): Genetic diversity allows species to evolve and
adapt, ensuring their survival in varying environments.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Greater genetic variation within a species
enhances its ability to adapt to environmental changes, ensuring long-term
survival.
Assertion (A): The Red Data Book is an important source of
information about threatened species.
Reason (R): The Red Data Book categorizes species based on
their risk of extinction and conservation status.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: The Red Data Book tracks the conservation status
of species and provides data on those that are endangered or critically
endangered.
Assertion (A): The IUCN (International Union for Conservation
of Nature) Red List categorizes species into various threat categories.
Reason (R): The IUCN Red List helps prioritize conservation
efforts by identifying species at risk.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: The IUCN Red List helps determine which species
are most in need of conservation efforts, based on their risk of extinction.
Assertion (A): Extinction is a natural process that occurs over
time.
Reason (R): Human activities like habitat destruction and
overexploitation have accelerated the rate of extinction.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: While extinction is a natural phenomenon,
human-induced factors have caused a dramatic increase in the rate of species
extinction.
Assertion (A): In-situ conservation involves protecting species
in their natural habitats.
Reason (R): In-situ conservation maintains species interactions
with their environment, promoting natural evolution.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: In-situ conservation occurs in the species'
natural habitat, ensuring that the ecological interactions and evolutionary
processes continue.
Assertion (A): Ex-situ conservation refers to conservation
efforts that occur outside a species’ natural habitat.
Reason (R): Ex-situ methods include botanical gardens, zoos,
and seed banks, which help preserve species outside their natural environment.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Ex-situ conservation involves protecting species
outside their natural habitats to prevent extinction, often in controlled
environments like zoos and seed banks.
Assertion (A): Protected areas like national parks and wildlife
sanctuaries are critical for conserving biodiversity.
Reason (R): These areas provide safe habitats for species to
thrive without human disturbance.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Protected areas help preserve ecosystems and
biodiversity by minimizing human interference and offering a safe environment
for wildlife.
Assertion (A): Biosphere reserves are areas designated for the
conservation of biodiversity at a global level.
Reason (R): Biosphere reserves conserve both the biodiversity
and the traditional knowledge of local communities.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Biosphere reserves are international efforts to
conserve biodiversity, integrating both natural and cultural aspects, and
supporting sustainable use.
Assertion (A): Climate change has a significant impact on
biodiversity.
Reason (R): Changes in temperature and weather patterns disrupt
species’ habitats, migration routes, and reproductive cycles.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Climate change can alter ecosystems, forcing
species to migrate or adapt, and sometimes leading to habitat loss and species
extinction.
Assertion (A): Overexploitation is a major threat to
biodiversity.
Reason (R): Overhunting, overfishing, and deforestation deplete
species populations and destroy habitats.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Overexploitation leads to the depletion of species
and disrupts ecosystems, making it difficult for species to recover.
Assertion (A): The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
aims to conserve biodiversity globally.
Reason (R): The CBD promotes the sustainable use of natural
resources and fair sharing of benefits arising from the use of biodiversity.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: The CBD is a treaty that promotes the conservation
and sustainable use of biodiversity, and ensures equitable sharing of benefits
from its use.
Assertion (A): Conservation of biodiversity is essential for
ecosystem services.
Reason (R): Ecosystem services like pollination, water
purification, and carbon sequestration depend on biodiversity.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Biodiversity supports the ecological functions
that are critical for human survival, including essential services provided by
ecosystems.
Assertion (A): The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) plays an
active role in the conservation of biodiversity.
Reason (R): WWF supports wildlife conservation, sustainable
development, and environmental education worldwide.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: WWF is a global organization dedicated to
conservation efforts, focusing on protecting species, habitats, and promoting
sustainable practices.
Assertion (A): The extinction of a species can have a cascading
effect on the ecosystem.
Reason (R): The loss of one species can disrupt food webs,
nutrient cycling, and ecosystem functions.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Extinction disrupts the balance of ecosystems, as
species are interdependent in food chains and ecological processes.
Assertion (A): Coral reefs are hotspots of biodiversity.
Reason (R): Coral reefs support a wide variety of marine
species, offering shelter, food, and breeding grounds.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Coral reefs are highly diverse ecosystems that
provide vital services to marine life, making them hotspots for biodiversity.
Assertion (A): The concept of ecological balance is essential
in biodiversity conservation.
Reason (R): Maintaining ecological balance ensures that
ecosystems remain stable and that species interactions are sustainable.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Ecological balance helps maintain stability in
ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and ensuring that species coexist without
overpopulation or resource depletion.
Assertion (A): Habitat destruction is one of the primary
threats to biodiversity.
Reason (R): Human activities like deforestation, urbanization,
and agriculture cause the loss and fragmentation of habitats.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Habitat destruction directly impacts biodiversity
by reducing the living space for species, making it difficult for them to
survive.
Assertion (A): The green revolution led to an increase in
agricultural productivity.
Reason (R): The green revolution introduced high-yielding
varieties of crops and the extensive use of chemicals, which increased food
production.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: The green revolution involved the use of
high-yielding crops and chemicals to increase productivity, but it also led to
the loss of biodiversity due to monoculture and chemical use.
Assertion (A): Sustainable development can help conserve
biodiversity.
Reason (R): Sustainable development balances human needs with
environmental protection, ensuring the long-term availability of natural
resources.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Sustainable development ensures that resources are
used responsibly without depleting them, helping to conserve biodiversity for
future generations.
Assertion (A): Pollination is an ecosystem service provided by
biodiversity.
Reason (R): Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators facilitate
the reproduction of many plant species, ensuring food production.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Pollinators are critical for the reproduction of
flowering plants, and their role is essential for maintaining food production
and biodiversity.
Assertion (A): The study of biodiversity helps in the discovery
of new medicines.
Reason (R): Many pharmaceutical drugs are derived from natural
compounds found in plants, animals, and microorganisms.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Biodiversity provides an immense source of natural
compounds, many of which are used in the development of life-saving drugs.
Assertion (A): Indigenous knowledge is important in
biodiversity conservation.
Reason (R): Indigenous communities often have deep knowledge of
local species and ecosystems, which aids in sustainable resource management.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Indigenous communities play a vital role in
conserving biodiversity through their traditional knowledge and sustainable
practices.
Assertion (A): The Endangered Species Act of 1973 was enacted
in the United States to protect endangered species.
Reason (R): The act provides for the identification and
protection of endangered species and their habitats.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: The Endangered Species Act is a key piece of
legislation aimed at preventing the extinction of species through legal
protection and conservation efforts.
Assertion (A): The Kyoto Protocol is a legally binding
international agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Reason (R): Greenhouse gas emissions contribute to climate
change, which is a major threat to biodiversity.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: The Kyoto Protocol aims to mitigate climate
change, which, if left unchecked, could lead to significant biodiversity loss.
Assertion (A): Zoos and aquariums are often involved in
breeding endangered species.
Reason (R): Breeding programs in controlled environments help
maintain species populations, providing insurance against extinction.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Zoos and aquariums play an important role in
species conservation by breeding endangered species in captivity, thereby
helping to prevent extinction.
Assertion (A): Reintroduction programs are used to restore
species to their natural habitats.
Reason (R): Reintroduction programs help restore the population
of species that have been extirpated or are endangered.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Reintroducing species into their natural habitats
is an important method to increase their population and restore ecological
balance.
Assertion (A): Biodiversity is essential for food security.
Reason (R): Diverse crops and livestock breeds ensure the
availability of nutritious food and contribute to agricultural resilience.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Biodiversity provides the genetic diversity needed
for stable food production and resilience against pests, diseases, and climate
change.
Assertion (A): Coral bleaching is caused by rising sea
temperatures and pollution.
Reason (R): Coral bleaching leads to the loss of symbiotic
algae in coral reefs, reducing their ability to survive.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Coral reefs are highly sensitive to temperature
changes, and elevated sea temperatures and pollutants cause corals to expel the
algae they rely on for nutrients, leading to bleaching.
Assertion (A): The precautionary principle is a key concept in
biodiversity conservation.
Reason (R): The precautionary principle advocates for
preventive action when an activity threatens biodiversity, even without full
scientific certainty.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: The precautionary principle encourages taking
action to prevent biodiversity loss when there is potential harm, even without
conclusive evidence.
Assertion (A): An increase in invasive species poses a threat
to native biodiversity.
Reason (R): Invasive species often outcompete native species
for resources, leading to their decline.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems by
outcompeting or preying on native species, resulting in a reduction of
biodiversity.
Assertion (A): Sustainable agriculture practices help conserve
biodiversity.
Reason (R): Sustainable agriculture minimizes the use of
harmful chemicals and promotes soil health, which supports diverse ecosystems.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Sustainable farming practices maintain soil
health, reduce pollution, and preserve natural habitats, thereby conserving
biodiversity.
Assertion (A): Seed banks play a significant role in
biodiversity conservation.
Reason (R): Seed banks store seeds of plants, allowing for the
preservation of genetic diversity and restoration of ecosystems.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Seed banks help conserve plant species' genetic
diversity and provide resources for restoring endangered or extinct plant
populations.
Assertion (A): The extinction of apex predators can cause
trophic cascades.
Reason (R): The removal of apex predators disrupts the food
web, affecting the abundance and distribution of other species.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Apex predators regulate populations of prey
species, and their loss can lead to imbalances in ecosystems and a decline in
biodiversity.
Assertion (A): Ecotourism can contribute to biodiversity
conservation.
Reason (R): Ecotourism provides economic incentives for local
communities to conserve natural habitats while promoting awareness about
environmental issues.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Ecotourism encourages the conservation of
biodiversity by generating revenue for local communities and fostering
environmental education.
Assertion (A): The ecosystem approach to conservation focuses
on protecting entire ecosystems rather than individual species.
Reason (R): Ecosystems are composed of many interdependent
species and environmental factors, making them crucial to biodiversity
conservation.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Focusing on ecosystems helps conserve multiple
species at once and preserves the processes that maintain biodiversity.
Assertion (A): Habitat fragmentation is one of the primary
causes of biodiversity loss.
Reason (R): Fragmented habitats isolate populations, reducing
gene flow and increasing the risk of inbreeding.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Fragmentation reduces connectivity between
habitats, which can lead to isolated populations with limited genetic diversity
and increased vulnerability to extinction.
Assertion (A): Agroforestry integrates trees into agricultural
landscapes, helping to conserve biodiversity.
Reason (R): Agroforestry practices improve soil quality,
enhance water retention, and provide habitats for a variety of species.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Agroforestry contributes to biodiversity
conservation by promoting ecosystem services that benefit both agriculture and
wildlife.
Assertion (A): The concept of ecosystem services recognizes the
importance of biodiversity for human well-being.
Reason (R): Ecosystem services include benefits such as clean
air, water, food, and climate regulation, all of which are essential for human
life.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Ecosystem services provided by biodiversity are
fundamental to human survival and quality of life, reinforcing the need for
conservation.
Assertion (A): The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
aims to conserve biodiversity globally.
Reason (R): The CBD promotes international cooperation to
ensure the sustainable use and fair distribution of genetic resources.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: The CBD provides a framework for global action to
conserve biodiversity and ensures that the benefits derived from genetic
resources are shared equitably.
Assertion (A): The term "biodiversity hotspot" refers to
regions with high species richness.
Reason (R): Hotspots are areas that are both rich in species
and threatened by human activities, making them priorities for conservation.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Biodiversity hotspots are critical areas that
require urgent attention for conservation due to their unique species and the
threats they face.
Assertion (A): Biodiversity increases ecosystem stability.
Reason (R): A diverse ecosystem is more resilient to
disturbances such as diseases, climate change, and natural disasters.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Ecosystems with high biodiversity are better able
to recover from disturbances, maintaining stability and essential functions.
Assertion (A): The IUCN Red List categorizes species based on
their conservation status.
Reason (R): The Red List provides a global assessment of
species at risk of extinction, helping to prioritize conservation efforts.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: The IUCN Red List classifies species according to
their extinction risk, guiding conservation priorities.
Assertion (A): Urbanization often leads to a decrease in
biodiversity.
Reason (R): Urbanization leads to habitat destruction,
pollution, and the introduction of invasive species, all of which negatively
impact biodiversity.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Urbanization disrupts ecosystems by replacing
natural habitats with built environments, thereby reducing biodiversity.
Assertion (A): Biodiversity conservation is essential for human
health.
Reason (R): Many medicines, food sources, and ecosystem
services are directly derived from biodiversity.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Biodiversity provides resources for human health,
including medicinal plants, food, and ecosystem functions like disease
regulation.
Assertion (A): The loss of biodiversity can exacerbate climate
change.
Reason (R): Biodiversity loss disrupts ecosystems that play key
roles in carbon sequestration, water regulation, and climate stabilization.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Healthy ecosystems contribute to climate
regulation, and their loss can worsen climate change impacts.
Assertion (A): Ecological corridors help in biodiversity
conservation.
Reason (R): Ecological corridors connect fragmented habitats,
allowing species to move and maintain genetic diversity.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Ecological corridors are essential for species
movement, gene flow, and maintaining biodiversity across fragmented landscapes.
Assertion (A): Reducing the human population can help conserve
biodiversity.
Reason (R): A smaller human population reduces the demand for
natural resources, helping to preserve ecosystems.
Answer: (A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct
explanation of A.
Explanation: Reducing human consumption and population growth
can lessen the pressure on ecosystems, thereby aiding biodiversity conservation.