CBSE Class 8 Science Notes Chapter 5: Chapter 5 of CBSE Class 8 Science, titled

"Conservation of Plants and Animals," emphasizes the importance of protecting biodiversity. It

discusses how deforestation, urbanization, and other human activities lead to habitat destruction
and environmental imbalances.

The chapter explains the adverse effects of deforestation, such as soil erosion and climate
change, and introduces the concepts of flora, fauna, endangered species, and extinction.

CBSE Class 8 Science Notes Chapter 5 Overview

Chapter 5 of CBSE Class 8 Science, titled "Conservation of Plants and Animals," focuses on the
importance of protecting biodiversity. It explains how human activities like deforestation,
urbanization, and industrialization have led to the destruction of forests and wildlife, causing an
imbalance in nature. The chapter highlights the adverse effects of deforestation, such as loss of
habitat, soil erosion, and climate change.

It introduces the concept of biodiversity and emphasizes the importance of preserving

ecosystems. Endangered species are discussed, and the chapter stresses the need for their
protection to prevent extinction. It also covers the importance of national parks, wildlife
sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves in conserving plants and animals.

CBSE Class 8 Science Notes Chapter 5 Conservation of

Plants and Animals
Here we have provided CBSE Class 8 Science Notes Chapter 5 Conservation of Plants and
Animals -

Extinction
A species goes extinct when it is totally eliminated from the planet.
A species is deemed extinct if the last member of the species passes away.

Deforestation
Deforestation is the process of destroying forests through tree-cutting.
Numerous animals lose their habitat as a result of deforestation.

Deforestation refers to the large-scale clearing or removal of forests, often for agricultural,
industrial, or urban development purposes. This practice results in the loss of trees, which are
crucial for maintaining ecological balance. Deforestation leads to adverse effects such as habitat
destruction, loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and climate change.

Causes of Deforestation

The following are some of the causes of deforestation:

obtaining land for farming.

constructing factories and homes.
creating furniture or obtaining fuel from wood.
Deforestation can also result from natural causes like severe droughts and forest fires.

Consequences of Deforestation

The earth's temperature and pollution level rise as a result of deforestation.

The atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide rises as a result.
Additionally, it lowers groundwater levels.

Droughts

Drought is the lack of water in an area. Droughts can happen due to a lack of rainfall.

A drought is an extended period of abnormally low rainfall, resulting in water shortages that
affect agriculture, wildlife, and human activities. Droughts can cause crop failure, reduce water
supply, and lead to food insecurity and economic loss.

They also contribute to environmental degradation, such as soil erosion and desertification.
Droughts may arise due to natural climate patterns or human-induced factors like deforestation
and overuse of water resources. The effects of drought can be long-lasting, impacting
ecosystems, livelihoods, and communities. Mitigation strategies include water conservation,
sustainable land management, and the development of drought-resistant crops.

Desertification

Desertification is the process by which flora erodes into a desert as a result of severe weather.
The desertification in certain regions is also a result of human activity like deforestation and
inadequate irrigation.

Global Warming
The term "global warming" refers to alterations in the worldwide climate.
The average temperature rises, which usually causes the ice caps in the poles to melt.
Global warming is caused by excessive pollution and deforestation.

Species
A species is a group of individuals that can breed and successfully produce fertile offspring.

Make the World a Greener Place

Recycling of Paper

Since the paper industry requires wood pulp, it is one of the main causes of deforestation.
Paper recycling can aid in the paper industry's reduction of wood pulp usage.
Reforestation

Reforestation is restocking the destroyed forests by planting new trees.

Wildlife Conservation
Wildlife conservation is the practice of protecting animal species and their habitats to prevent
extinction and maintain biodiversity. It involves preserving ecosystems, safeguarding
endangered species, and addressing threats such as habitat destruction, poaching, and climate
change.

Wildlife conservation efforts include establishing protected areas like national parks, wildlife
sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves. Laws and regulations, along with international
agreements, also play a critical role in conservation.

Conservation of forest and wildlife

We must protect the forest and its species because of the threat posed by human excess.
In order for us to preserve the natural balance, wildlife is essential.

Wildlife sanctuary

A wildlife sanctuary is a naturally occurring sanctuary, such as an island, that provides

protection for species from hunting, predation, competition or poaching.

National Park
A national park is a protected area established by the government to conserve the natural
environment, wildlife, and biodiversity. These parks are designated to safeguard ecosystems,
prevent habitat destruction, and preserve endangered species.

National parks restrict human activities such as deforestation, hunting, and construction to
maintain the ecological balance. They also serve as areas for scientific research and promote
ecotourism, allowing visitors to experience nature responsibly.

Flora and fauna

The plants and animals found in a particular area are termed flora and fauna of that area,
respectively.

National Park
A park designated for the conservation of biodiversity is called a national park.
The Union Government creates and maintains them.

Biosphere Reserves
Biosphere reserves are designated areas aimed at conserving biodiversity, promoting
sustainable development, and supporting scientific research. These reserves are recognized
under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme and consist of three zones: the
core area (strictly protected for conservation), the buffer zone (where activities compatible with
conservation are allowed), and the transition zone (for sustainable human activities). Biosphere
reserves focus on protecting ecosystems, flora, and fauna while allowing local communities to
engage in sustainable practices.

Biosphere and Biodiversity

The area of the earth that is home to living things or sustains life is known as the biosphere.
The range of species that exist on Earth, their interactions with one another, and their link to the
environment is referred to as biological diversity, or biodiversity.

Endemic species

Endemic species are those species of plants and animals which are found exclusively in a
particular area.

Biosphere Reserve

Reserves for the biosphere are places where human activity is prohibited.
These locations support the preservation of threatened species.

Project Tiger
The government started Project Tiger in order to preserve and safeguard the nation's declining
tiger population.
There are a number of natural parks connected to the Project Tiger effort.
Endangered Animals

Animals whose numbers are diminishing to a level that they might face extinction are known as
endangered animals.

Ecosystem

An ecosystem is the culmination of all the flora, fauna, and microbes found in a region, as well
as inanimate elements like the soil, climate, river deltas, and so forth.

Red Data Book

Red Data Book is the source book which keeps a record of all the endangered animals and
plants.

Migration
Animals migrate when they move from one area to another on a regular basis.
Usually, people do it to procreate and get away from hostile environments.
Migratory birds and fish are common.

Benefits of CBSE Class 8 Science Notes Chapter 5

The benefits of studying CBSE Class 8 Science Chapter 5 - Conservation of Plants and Animals
are numerous:
Environmental Awareness: It raises awareness about the significance of biodiversity and the
need to conserve plants and animals, promoting environmental responsibility.

Understanding of Ecosystems: The chapter explains the importance of ecosystems and how
deforestation, urbanization, and other human activities disrupt natural habitats.

Conservation Practices: Students learn about practical measures like afforestation,

reforestation, and setting up protected areas (national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere
reserves).

Wildlife Protection Knowledge: It emphasizes the protection of endangered species and the
laws and organizations that work toward conservation.

Promotes Sustainability: By studying the chapter, students are encouraged to adopt

sustainable practices and contribute to preserving natural resources for future generations.