ROUTERA


Chapter 15 Biodiversity and its conservation

Class 12th Biology Chapter MCQs


1. Which of the following is the richest in biodiversity?

  • A) Desert
  • B) Tropical rainforest
  • C) Temperate forest
  • D) Tundra

Answer: B
Explanation: Tropical rainforests are known to have the richest biodiversity due to their warm climate and year-round sunlight, supporting a variety of plant and animal species.


2. Which of the following is a major cause of species extinction?

  • A) Habitat destruction
  • B) Ecological balance
  • C) Genetic drift
  • D) Natural disasters

Answer: A
Explanation: Habitat destruction is one of the leading causes of species extinction, as it removes the natural environment needed for species to survive.


3. Which of the following is the most common approach to conserve biodiversity?

  • A) Using renewable resources
  • B) Habitat restoration
  • C) In-situ conservation
  • D) Establishing zoos

Answer: C
Explanation: In-situ conservation involves protecting species in their natural habitats, such as through the establishment of protected areas like national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.


4. Which of the following is an example of ex-situ conservation?

  • A) National parks
  • B) Wildlife sanctuaries
  • C) Botanical gardens
  • D) Biosphere reserves

Answer: C
Explanation: Botanical gardens are an example of ex-situ conservation, where plant species are conserved outside their natural habitat.


5. What does the term "biodiversity" refer to?

  • A) The variety of life forms present on Earth
  • B) The number of individuals in a species
  • C) The number of different ecosystems in a region
  • D) The genetic differences within a species

Answer: A
Explanation: Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms present on Earth, including different species, ecosystems, and genetic variations.


6. Which of the following is the highest level of biodiversity?

  • A) Species diversity
  • B) Genetic diversity
  • C) Ecosystem diversity
  • D) Community diversity

Answer: C
Explanation: Ecosystem diversity represents the variety of ecosystems in a given area, which is considered the highest level of biodiversity.


7. Which of the following is the main goal of biodiversity conservation?

  • A) To preserve individual species
  • B) To maintain ecosystem functions
  • C) To reduce human population
  • D) To increase agricultural productivity

Answer: B
Explanation: The primary goal of biodiversity conservation is to maintain ecosystem functions, which support life on Earth by regulating processes such as nutrient cycling and climate control.


8. The term "endemic species" refers to species that are:

  • A) Found in a specific geographic location and nowhere else
  • B) Widespread across the globe
  • C) Only found in zoos or botanical gardens
  • D) Not found in any particular location

Answer: A
Explanation: Endemic species are species that are native to a specific geographic area and are found nowhere else on Earth.


9. The IUCN Red List is used to:

  • A) List endangered species
  • B) List threatened habitats
  • C) Identify extinct species
  • D) All of the above

Answer: D
Explanation: The IUCN Red List provides a comprehensive list of species that are classified according to their conservation status, including endangered, threatened, and extinct species.


10. Which of the following species is considered extinct?

  • A) Dodo
  • B) Bengal tiger
  • C) Blue whale
  • D) Asiatic lion

Answer: A
Explanation: The Dodo is a species that is considered extinct, as it was wiped out due to human activity and introduced species.


11. Which of the following regions has the highest species diversity?

  • A) Temperate grasslands
  • B) Tundra
  • C) Tropical rainforests
  • D) Deserts

Answer: C
Explanation: Tropical rainforests are known for their high species diversity due to their stable climate, abundant sunlight, and varied vegetation.


12. What is the significance of biosphere reserves in conservation?

  • A) They protect entire ecosystems
  • B) They maintain gene pools of species
  • C) They conserve the diversity of species and habitats
  • D) All of the above

Answer: D
Explanation: Biosphere reserves are protected areas that aim to conserve not only species but also genetic diversity, ecosystems, and the sustainable development of surrounding areas.


13. Which of the following is an example of an in-situ conservation method?

  • A) Gene bank
  • B) Seed bank
  • C) Wildlife sanctuary
  • D) Botanical garden

Answer: C
Explanation: A wildlife sanctuary is an example of in-situ conservation, where species are conserved in their natural habitat.


14. Which of the following is a major threat to biodiversity?

  • A) Climate change
  • B) Habitat fragmentation
  • C) Pollution
  • D) All of the above

Answer: D
Explanation: Climate change, habitat fragmentation, and pollution are all significant threats to biodiversity, leading to the destruction and degradation of ecosystems.


15. Which of the following is an example of an endangered species in India?

  • A) Asiatic lion
  • B) Indian elephant
  • C) Snow leopard
  • D) Bengal tiger

Answer: D
Explanation: The Bengal tiger is listed as an endangered species in India due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.


16. Which of the following is not an ecosystem service provided by biodiversity?

  • A) Pollination
  • B) Air purification
  • C) Climate regulation
  • D) Fossil fuel production

Answer: D
Explanation: Biodiversity provides several ecosystem services, such as pollination, air purification, and climate regulation, but fossil fuel production is not one of them.


17. What is the primary purpose of seed banks?

  • A) To store genetically modified seeds
  • B) To conserve seeds of threatened plant species
  • C) To grow crops in controlled environments
  • D) To store medicinal plants

Answer: B
Explanation: Seed banks are used to conserve seeds of threatened plant species and ensure their availability for future regeneration and research.


18. Which of the following terms refers to the practice of breeding and reintroducing endangered species into their natural habitat?

  • A) Reintroduction program
  • B) Ex-situ conservation
  • C) Bioremediation
  • D) In-situ conservation

Answer: A
Explanation: A reintroduction program involves the breeding and reintroducing endangered species into their natural habitat to restore their populations.


19. The main aim of conservation biology is to:

  • A) Understand the genetic composition of species
  • B) Prevent the extinction of species and ecosystems
  • C) Develop new species through artificial selection
  • D) Increase the economic value of biodiversity

Answer: B
Explanation: Conservation biology aims to prevent extinction and maintain biodiversity by understanding the factors that threaten species and ecosystems.


20. Which of the following factors contributes most to the loss of biodiversity in a forest ecosystem?

  • A) Overhunting
  • B) Deforestation
  • C) Flooding
  • D) Agricultural activities

Answer: B
Explanation: Deforestation is a major cause of biodiversity loss in forests as it destroys the habitats of numerous plant and animal species.


21. Which of the following conservation methods involves maintaining species in artificial environments like zoos or aquariums?

  • A) In-situ conservation
  • B) Ex-situ conservation
  • C) Sustainable conservation
  • D) Genetic conservation

Answer: B
Explanation: Ex-situ conservation involves conserving species outside their natural habitat, such as in zoos, aquariums, or botanical gardens.


22. The term "hotspots of biodiversity" refers to regions that:

  • A) Have a high degree of species endemism and habitat loss
  • B) Have a rich variety of marine life
  • C) Are free from human interference
  • D) Are the largest reserves of biodiversity

Answer: A
Explanation: Biodiversity hotspots are regions that have high species endemism and are undergoing significant habitat loss, making them priorities for conservation.


23. Which of the following is a primary concern of wildlife conservation?

  • A) Promoting tourism
  • B) Protecting endangered species
  • C) Enhancing agricultural productivity
  • D) Increasing industrialization

Answer: B
Explanation: The primary concern of wildlife conservation is to protect endangered species and their habitats to prevent extinction.


24. Which of the following is a commonly used method for conserving genetic diversity in agriculture?

  • A) In-situ conservation
  • B) Genetic modification
  • C) Gene banks
  • D) Artificial selection

Answer: C
Explanation: Gene banks are used to conserve the genetic diversity of agricultural species by storing seeds or plant material for future use.


25. What is the main objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)?

  • A) To increase agricultural production
  • B) To prevent species extinction globally
  • C) To promote sustainable development and conserve biodiversity
  • D) To regulate industrial pollution

Answer: C
Explanation: The main objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is to promote sustainable development and ensure the conservation of biodiversity worldwide.


26. Which of the following is a result of habitat fragmentation?

  • A) Increased biodiversity
  • B) Decreased population size
  • C) Larger habitat areas
  • D) Improved gene flow

Answer: B
Explanation: Habitat fragmentation often leads to decreased population sizes and reduced genetic diversity due to isolated habitats.


27. What is the term for the deliberate introduction of a species to an area where it does not naturally occur?

  • A) Bioinvasion
  • B) Bioremediation
  • C) Genetic drift
  • D) Species extinction

Answer: A
Explanation: Bioinvasion refers to the introduction of a non-native species into an area, often disrupting local ecosystems and threatening native species.


28. Which of the following actions can help prevent species extinction?

  • A) Conservation of natural habitats
  • B) Legal protection of endangered species
  • C) Habitat restoration
  • D) All of the above

Answer: D
Explanation: Preventing species extinction requires multiple actions, including habitat conservation, legal protection, and restoration efforts.


29. Which of the following is not a major factor affecting biodiversity?

  • A) Overexploitation
  • B) Pollution
  • C) Climate change
  • D) Population growth

Answer: D
Explanation: While population growth can indirectly affect biodiversity, it is not a direct major factor compared to overexploitation, pollution, and climate change.


30. What is the primary cause of the decline in amphibian populations worldwide?

  • A) Climate change
  • B) Habitat loss
  • C) Pollution
  • D) All of the above

Answer: D
Explanation: The decline in amphibian populations is caused by multiple factors, including climate change, habitat loss, and pollution.


31. What is the main reason for deforestation in tropical rainforests?

  • A) Urbanization
  • B) Industrialization
  • C) Agricultural expansion
  • D) Conservation efforts

Answer: C
Explanation: Agricultural expansion is the primary driver of deforestation in tropical rainforests as land is cleared for farming and livestock.


32. Which of the following is a non-renewable resource?

  • A) Forests
  • B) Solar energy
  • C) Coal
  • D) Wind energy

Answer: C
Explanation: Coal is a non-renewable resource, as it cannot be replenished naturally within a human lifespan.


33. The practice of cutting down trees and planting new ones to replace them is called:

  • A) Afforestation
  • B) Deforestation
  • C) Reforestation
  • D) Desertification

Answer: C
Explanation: Reforestation is the practice of planting trees to replace those that have been cut down, helping to restore ecosystems.


34. Which of the following is an example of in-situ conservation?

  • A) Gene banks
  • B) Botanical gardens
  • C) National parks
  • D) Zoos

Answer: C
Explanation: National parks are a form of in-situ conservation, where species are protected in their natural habitats.


35. What is the concept of 'sustainable development'?

  • A) Using resources at a rate faster than they can regenerate
  • B) Using resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising future generations
  • C) Focusing only on economic growth
  • D) Over-exploiting natural resources to support human development

Answer: B
Explanation: Sustainable development involves using resources wisely so that they are available for future generations.


36. What is the term used for the removal of all trees in an area?

  • A) Clear-cutting
  • B) Selective cutting
  • C) Thinning
  • D) Agroforestry

Answer: A
Explanation: Clear-cutting is the process of removing all trees from an area, which can lead to habitat loss and soil erosion.


37. Which of the following is a significant threat to forest ecosystems?

  • A) Sustainable logging practices
  • B) Overgrazing by livestock
  • C) Proper land management
  • D) Restoration of natural habitats

Answer: B
Explanation: Overgrazing by livestock can damage forest ecosystems, leading to soil degradation and loss of biodiversity.


38. What is the main aim of the wildlife protection act?

  • A) To promote hunting
  • B) To prevent illegal hunting and trading of wildlife
  • C) To encourage the spread of invasive species
  • D) To increase forest exploitation

Answer: B
Explanation: The wildlife protection act aims to prevent illegal hunting and trading of wildlife to safeguard endangered species.


39. Which of the following is a method of sustainable agriculture?

  • A) Slash and burn
  • B) Monoculture farming
  • C) Agroforestry
  • D) Heavy use of chemical fertilizers

Answer: C
Explanation: Agroforestry is a method of sustainable agriculture where trees are integrated into farming systems, promoting biodiversity and soil health.


40. Which of the following is a key principle of wildlife conservation?

  • A) Focus on species with high economic value
  • B) Protect and restore habitats
  • C) Promote large-scale commercial hunting
  • D) Expand urban areas for human settlements

Answer: B
Explanation: The key principle of wildlife conservation is to protect and restore habitats to ensure species can thrive.


41. What is the process of replacing natural ecosystems with urban areas called?

  • A) Desertification
  • B) Urbanization
  • C) Reforestation
  • D) Afforestation

Answer: B
Explanation: Urbanization is the process where natural ecosystems are replaced by urban areas, leading to habitat destruction and biodiversity loss.


42. What is the effect of monoculture farming on biodiversity?

  • A) Increases biodiversity
  • B) Reduces biodiversity
  • C) Has no effect on biodiversity
  • D) Enhances ecosystem services

Answer: B
Explanation: Monoculture farming, where only one crop is grown, can reduce biodiversity by eliminating habitat for other species.


43. Which of the following is an example of ex-situ conservation?

  • A) National parks
  • B) Wildlife sanctuaries
  • C) Zoos
  • D) Forest reserves

Answer: C
Explanation: Zoos are an example of ex-situ conservation, where species are kept outside their natural habitats for breeding and protection.


44. Which of the following countries has the largest area of forest cover?

  • A) Brazil
  • B) Russia
  • C) India
  • D) Canada

Answer: B
Explanation: Russia has the largest area of forest cover in the world, mainly consisting of boreal forests (taiga).


45. Which is a common consequence of illegal wildlife trade?

  • A) Increased population of endangered species
  • B) Depletion of biodiversity
  • C) Enhanced ecosystem stability
  • D) Protection of forest habitats

Answer: B
Explanation: Illegal wildlife trade leads to the depletion of biodiversity, as species are taken from their natural habitats for profit.


46. Which of the following is a direct benefit of biodiversity?

  • A) Increased pollution
  • B) Ecological stability
  • C) Increased carbon emissions
  • D) Soil erosion

Answer: B
Explanation: Biodiversity provides ecological stability, ensuring ecosystems can adapt to environmental changes and support human needs.


47. Which of the following best defines "endangered species"?

  • A) Species with high population numbers
  • B) Species at risk of extinction due to environmental changes or human activities
  • C) Species with a stable population in their natural habitat
  • D) Species that can survive only in zoos

Answer: B
Explanation: Endangered species are at risk of extinction due to factors such as habitat destruction or illegal hunting.


48. What is the primary cause of the degradation of coral reefs?

  • A) Overfishing
  • B) Climate change
  • C) Natural disasters
  • D) Soil erosion

Answer: B
Explanation: Climate change, including ocean acidification and warming, is the primary cause of coral reef degradation.


49. What is the key reason for conserving biodiversity?

  • A) To increase the cost of natural resources
  • B) To preserve the ecosystem services that support life
  • C) To promote large-scale farming
  • D) To ensure more land for human settlements

Answer: B
Explanation: Conserving biodiversity is crucial to preserve ecosystem services, such as air and water purification, pollination, and soil fertility.


50. Which of the following is a sustainable practice for forest management?

  • A) Clear-cutting
  • B) Shifting cultivation
  • C) Selective cutting
  • D) Forest destruction for urban development

Answer: C
Explanation: Selective cutting is a sustainable forest management practice where only certain trees are harvested, allowing the forest ecosystem to regenerate.