Biodiversity and Conservation

Levels of Biodiversity

Biodiversity exists at three main levels: genetic diversity (variation within species), species diversity (diversity among species within a region), and ecological diversity (variety of ecosystems in a region).

Latitudinal Gradients in Biodiversity

Species diversity generally decreases as we move away from the equator towards the poles because tropical regions remain relatively undisturbed and provide constant, favorable environments.

The Evil Quartet

The four major causes of accelerated biodiversity loss are Habitat loss and fragmentation, Over-exploitation, Alien species invasions, and Co-extinctions.

In-situ Conservation

The conservation of endangered plants and animals in their natural habitats, such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, and sacred groves.

Ex-situ Conservation

The conservation of threatened species outside their natural habitats in places like botanical gardens, zoological parks, wildlife safari parks, and cryopreservation.