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MODULE 04

Biodiversity: Introduction, Flora and Fauna, Importance of biodiversity, Economic values

medicinal plants, drugs, fisheries biogeochemical cycling. Threat to biodiversity, natural &

anthropogenic disturbance, habitat loss. Conservation of biodiversity, National parks, wild

life sanctuaries, zoological gardens, gene banks, pollen culture, ecological restoration, social
forestry.

Ecosystem: Definition, Types: forest, grass land, marine, desert, wetlands, estuarine, lotic,
lentic. Abiotic & biotic components of ecosystem.

BIODIVERSITY
INTRODUCTION

Biodiversity refers to the total variety of life found on Earth, including the variability within
species, between species, and between ecosystems. It is the outcome of millions of years of
evolutionary processes and includes:

1. Genetic Diversity – Variations in genes within a species (e.g., different rice varieties in India
like IR-8, Basmati, Sona Masuri).

2. Species Diversity – Variety of species in a particular region (e.g., Western Ghats has > 7000
plant species).

3. Ecosystem Diversity – Diversity of habitats (forests, deserts, grasslands, lakes, oceans,

mangroves).

Biodiversity ensures ecosystem stability, adaptation, food security, and overall environmental
balance.

FLORA AND FAUNA

• Flora – Refers to plants of a geographical region. → Includes trees, shrubs, herbs, grasses,
climbers, medicinal plants. Example: Teak, sandalwood, bamboo, mangroves.

• Fauna – Refers to animals of a region. → Includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish,

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insects, microorganisms. Example: Lion-tailed macaque, tigers, elephants, king cobra,

butterflies.

Together, flora and fauna form the biological wealth of the region.

IMPORTANCE OF BIODIVERSITY

Biodiversity is one of the most essential components of life on Earth because it supports ecological
balance, economic development, cultural heritage, scientific progress, and overall environmental
well-being. Its importance extends far beyond the existence of individual species and plays a
foundational role in maintaining the stability and sustainability of the planet’s ecosystems.

1. Ecological Importance

a) Stability of Ecosystems

High biodiversity creates strong and stable ecosystems. When more species are present, the
ecosystem is better able to absorb disturbances such as drought, disease, or natural disasters.
Different species perform different ecological roles, and the loss of a single species may alter food
webs, nutrient cycles, and ecosystem productivity.

b) Maintenance of Ecological Processes

Biodiversity drives essential ecological functions such as:

• Photosynthesis – carried out by plants & algae

• Pollination – by bees, butterflies, birds, bats

• Seed dispersal – by wind, water, animals

• Soil formation and erosion control – by microorganisms and plant roots

These processes ensure continuous nutrient flow and regeneration of ecosystems.

c) Regulation of Climate & Hydrological Cycles

Forests rich in biodiversity help regulate rainfall, temperature, and humidity. Mangroves protect
coastlines, wetlands purify water, and vegetation controls groundwater recharge. Thus, biodiversity
is directly linked to climate stability and water balance.

2. Economic Importance

a) Food and Agriculture

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Biodiversity is the backbone of sustainable agriculture.

• Different crop varieties (rice, wheat, pulses) provide nutrition and ensure food security.

• Pollinators ensure healthy fruit and seed production.

• Animals provide dairy, meat, fiber, leather, and manure.

Loss of biodiversity directly threatens global food supply.

b) Forest Produce and Raw Materials

Forests provide timber, firewood, bamboo, resins, oils, latex, fibers, dyes, and tannins. These
resources support industries such as paper, furniture, textiles, and construction. Rural communities
highly depend on these products for livelihood.

c) Medicinal Resources

Over 25% of modern medicines are derived from plants and animals. Examples include:
• Aspirin from willow bark
• Penicillin from fungi
• Quinine from cinchona bark
• Taxol from yew tree

Traditional systems like Ayurveda and Siddha rely heavily on medicinal plant biodiversity.

d) Fisheries and Livestock

Biodiversity supports marine and freshwater fisheries which provide food, employment, and
revenue through exports. Genetic diversity in livestock breeds ensures resistance to diseases and
climate variations.

3. Scientific & Educational Importance

Biodiversity acts as a natural laboratory for scientific research. Studies on species behavior,
genetics, physiology, and ecology help us understand evolution, adaptation, climate change impacts,
and ecosystem functioning. 0Students, researchers, and biotechnologists depend heavily on
biodiverse ecosystems to explore new technologies, medicines, and innovations.

4. Social, Cultural & Ethical Importance

a) Cultural Identity & Traditional Knowledge

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Many communities, especially indigenous tribes, maintain strong cultural ties with local flora and
fauna. Sacred groves, rituals, folk medicines, and agricultural practices are all rooted in biodiversity.

b) Ethical Responsibility

Humans have a moral duty to protect other living beings. Every species has a right to exist, and
conserving biodiversity reflects ethical and responsible environmental behaviour.

5. Aesthetic, Recreational & Tourism Value

a) Natural Beauty & Inspiration

Forests, mountains, lakes, coral reefs, and wildlife create scenic landscapes that enhance emotional
and psychological well-being. They inspire art, literature, photography, and spirituality.

b) Eco-Tourism & National Income

Biodiversity-rich regions attract millions of tourists annually. Wildlife safaris, trekking, bird
watching, scuba diving, and nature camping generate revenue and employment for local
communities.

6. Environmental Services

a) Biogeochemical Cycles

Biodiversity is central to nutrient cycles such as:

• Carbon cycle – Trees absorb CO₂ and store carbon.

• Nitrogen cycle – Bacteria fix nitrogen in the soil.

• Oxygen cycle – Plants release oxygen through photosynthesis.

• Water cycle – Vegetation influences rainfall and humidity.

b) Waste Decomposition & Soil Fertility

Decomposers like fungi, bacteria, and earthworms break down organic matter, recycle nutrients,
and enrich soil fertility. Without these organisms, ecosystems would collapse under accumulated
waste.

7. Climate Change Mitigation

Biodiverse forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing greenhouse gases. Mangroves and wetlands buffer
coastal areas against storms and flooding. Coral reefs protect shorelines and support fisheries.

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Healthy ecosystems help communities adapt to climate change impacts.

8. Insurance Value / Resilience Value

Biodiversity provides an “insurance effect.” If one species fails due to disease or climate change,
another species may take over its ecological role. This redundancy ensures ecosystem resilience and
long-term sustainability.

THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY

Biodiversity across the world is facing severe pressures from both natural causes and human
activities. While natural disturbances have always influenced ecosystems, anthropogenic (human-
made) threats have accelerated species extinction at an alarming rate. The major threats are
explained below.

1. Natural Disturbances

Although these events occur without human intervention, they can alter habitats and affect species
survival.

a) Floods

Heavy floods uproot vegetation, drown animals, erode soil, and disrupt aquatic ecosystems. Many
species lose breeding grounds and food availability.

b) Cyclones & Storms

Strong winds destroy forests, coastal vegetation (especially mangroves), coral reefs, and nesting
areas. Cyclones drastically change coastal biodiversity.

c) Forest Fires (Natural)

Lightning or spontaneous heating can cause forest fires. Although some fires support regeneration,
intense fires can kill wildlife and destroy large habitats.

d) Earthquakes & Volcanic Eruptions

These events cause land deformation, landslides, and destruction of natural ecosystems. Entire plant
and animal communities may disappear.

Natural disturbances are generally temporary, and ecosystems often recover over time. However,
human activities amplify their impact.

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2. Anthropogenic (Human-Induced) Threats

These are the major causes of biodiversity loss today.

a) Habitat Loss & Fragmentation (Most Serious Threat)

Expansion of agriculture, urbanization, road construction, industries, and mining reduces natural
habitats.
Fragmentation divides large habitats into small isolated patches → reduces breeding, food
availability, and increases risk of extinction.

b) Overexploitation of Resources

Excessive hunting, poaching, overfishing, and unsustainable extraction of timber, medicinal plants,
and minerals lead to rapid decline of species. Examples: poaching of tigers, elephants;
overharvesting of sandalwood.

c) Pollution

• Air pollution damages forests and reduces plant growth.

• Water pollution from industries, plastics, sewage kills aquatic plants and animals.

• Soil pollution reduces soil fertility and microbial life. Pollutants accumulate in food chains,
causing health impacts on wildlife.

d) Climate Change & Global Warming

Rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns disturb migration, breeding, and food availability.
Melting ice affects polar species, while warming oceans cause coral bleaching. Many species
cannot adapt rapidly and face extinction.

e) Invasive Alien Species

Non-native species introduced intentionally or accidentally spread rapidly and dominate local
ecosystems.
Examples:

• Water hyacinth choking lakes

• Lantana invading forests

• Eichhornia reducing oxygen in water bodies

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These species outcompete native species for food, space, and nutrients.

f) Deforestation

Cutting down forests for agriculture, timber, settlements, and development leads to:

• Loss of habitat

• Soil erosion

• Reduced rainfall

• Decline in forest-dependent species

g) Illegal Wildlife Trade

Trade of animal parts (ivory, skins, horns) and exotic pets threatens species survival and disrupts
ecological balance.

h) Population Explosion & Urbanization

Increasing human population puts pressure on land, water, forests, and wildlife. Rapid construction
and infrastructure growth shrink natural habitats.

CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY

1. In-situ Conservation (Within Natural Habitat)

a) National Parks

• Strictly protected with minimal human activity.

• Aim: conserve entire ecosystems and biodiversity.

• Examples:

o Nagarhole National Park (Karnataka)

o Kaziranga (Assam — one-horned rhino)

o Jim Corbett (Uttarakhand)

b) Wildlife Sanctuaries

• Protection of specific species; human activities may be allowed.

• Examples:

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o Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Karnataka)

o Gir Sanctuary (Gujarat — Asiatic lion)

c) Biosphere Reserves

• Large protected regions for conservation and research.

• Areas divided into:

o Core Zone

o Buffer Zone

o Transition Zone

• Examples: Nilgiri, Sunderbans, Gulf of Mannar.

2. Ex-situ Conservation (Outside Natural Habitat)

a) Zoological Gardens

• Provide shelter, breeding, and conservation for endangered species.

• Used for education and research.

b) Botanical Gardens

• Conserve rare plants and medicinal species.

• Example: Lalbagh Botanical Garden (Bengaluru).

c) Gene Banks

• Store genetic material (DNA, seeds, tissue) for long-term conservation.

• Used in crop improvement and revival of endangered species.

d) Seed Banks & Pollen Culture

• Seeds stored at controlled temperatures to preserve species diversity.

• Pollen used for hybridization experiments and plant breeding.

e) Ecological Restoration

• Rebuilding degraded ecosystems by:

o Reforestation

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o Soil conservation

o Wetland restoration

o Removal of invasive species

f) Social Forestry

• Planting trees on community lands to reduce pressure on natural forests.

• Provides fuelwood, fodder, and increases green cover.

ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION FOR CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY

Ecological Restoration refers to the process of assisting the recovery of damaged, degraded, or
destroyed ecosystems so that they can regain their natural structure, function, and biodiversity. It
aims to bring back native species, rebuild ecological processes, and create a self-sustaining
environment that closely resembles the original ecosystem.

This method is becoming increasingly important because many ecosystems are degraded by
deforestation, mining, pollution, urbanization, overgrazing, invasive species, and climate change.

Objectives of Ecological Restoration

• Recovering Native Species
• Rebuilding Ecosystem Functions
• Enhancing Habitat Quality
• Increasing Resilience

Major Approaches in Ecological Restoration

• Reforestation & Afforestation
• Removal of Invasive Species
• Soil and Water Conservation
• Wetland & River Restoration
• Grassland Rehabilitation
• Mine-Site Rehabilitation
• Wildlife Corridor Development

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ECOSYSTEM
DEFINITION

An ecosystem is a self-sustaining functional unit where living organisms (biotic components)

interact with non-living components (abiotic components) in a defined region.

Two fundamental processes:

1. Energy Flow → from sun → producers → consumers → decomposers.

2. Nutrient Cycling → nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, phosphorus cycles.

TYPES OF ECOSYSTEMS

1. Forest Ecosystem

Forest ecosystems are dominated by dense tree cover and rich vegetation. They occur in regions
with moderate to high rainfall. These ecosystems support a high level of biodiversity, including
large mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and microorganisms. Forests play a key role in regulating
the climate, maintaining the water cycle, and storing carbon.

Examples include tropical rainforests, deciduous forests, coniferous forests, and mangrove forests.

2. Grassland Ecosystem

Grasslands are ecosystems where grasses are the dominant vegetation and trees are sparse due to
limited rainfall. They provide habitat for grazing animals like deer, bison, antelopes, and herbivores
which, in turn, support predators like lions and cheetahs. Grasslands act as important grazing lands
for livestock and help in soil conservation.

Examples include the savannas of Africa and the prairies of North America.

3. Desert Ecosystem

Deserts occur in regions with very low rainfall (less than 25 cm annually) and extreme temperature
conditions.
Vegetation is sparse and includes drought-resistant plants such as cacti, acacia, and thorny shrubs.
Animals like camels, snakes, lizards, and foxes show special adaptations to survive heat and water
scarcity.
Deserts may be hot deserts (Sahara, Thar) or cold deserts (Gobi, Ladakh).

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4. Marine Ecosystem

Marine ecosystems cover nearly 70% of Earth’s surface and include oceans, seas, coral reefs, coastal
zones, and deep-sea habitats. They are characterized by high salinity and are home to a wide range
of species, including plankton, fish, sea turtles, corals, dolphins, whales, and seaweeds.
Marine ecosystems play a vital role in climate regulation, oxygen production, nutrient cycling, and
global food supply. Coral reefs are known as the “rainforests of the sea” due to their rich
biodiversity.

5. Wetland Ecosystem

Wetlands are areas where the soil remains waterlogged for a long period. This includes swamps,
marshes, peatlands, and flooded plains. Wetlands act as natural water purifiers, filtering pollutants
and sediments. They reduce the impact of floods, recharge groundwater, and provide breeding
grounds for fish, amphibians, and migratory birds. Mangrove wetlands along coastlines also protect
against storms and coastal erosion.

6. Estuarine Ecosystem

Estuaries are transition zones where freshwater from rivers meets saltwater from the sea.
This mixing of waters creates a nutrient-rich environment, making estuaries one of the most
productive ecosystems on Earth. They support species like shellfish, crabs, shrimps, molluscs,
mangroves, and numerous fish species. Estuaries also act as nursery grounds for juvenile fish and
provide livelihood to fishing communities.

7. Lotic Ecosystem

Lotic ecosystems include flowing water bodies such as rivers, streams, and springs.
The continuous flow of water maintains high oxygen levels, supporting species such as trout,
freshwater dolphins, aquatic insects, and algae. These ecosystems transport nutrients and sediments
from mountains to plains and play a major role in shaping landscapes, creating fertile floodplains,
and supporting agriculture.

8. Lentic Ecosystem

Lentic ecosystems consist of standing or still water bodies such as lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and
tanks. These ecosystems are usually stratified into different zones:

• Littoral zone (near the shore, rich in vegetation)

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• Limnetic zone (open water, supports phytoplankton and fish)

• Profundal zone (deep water, low light and low oxygen)

Lentic ecosystems support diverse plant species, fish, frogs, insects, microorganisms, and birds.
They also serve as important sources of drinking water, irrigation, and recreation.

COMPONENTS OF AN ECOSYSTEM

1. Abiotic Components (Non-living factors)

These are the physical and chemical factors that influence the survival, growth, and distribution of
living organisms in an ecosystem. They determine how productive and supportive an ecosystem
can be.

a) Sunlight

• Primary source of energy for all ecosystems.

• Drives photosynthesis, influencing plant growth and food production.

• Affects behaviour and migration of animals.

b) Temperature

• Regulates metabolic activities of organisms.

• Determines which species can survive in a region (e.g., polar bears in cold regions, camels in
deserts).

• Influences reproduction, growth rate, and seasonal variations.

c) Water

• Essential for all life processes—digestion, transport of nutrients, photosynthesis.

• Availability of water decides whether an area becomes a forest, grassland, or desert.

• Aquatic ecosystems depend entirely on water quantity and quality.

d) Soil

• Provides minerals and nutrients to plants.

• Soil texture, pH, and organic matter determine the variety of plant life.

• Supports microorganisms that help in decomposition.

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e) Air

• Supplies gases like oxygen (for respiration) and carbon dioxide (for photosynthesis).

• Wind helps in seed dispersal, pollination, and temperature regulation.

2. Biotic Components (Living organisms)

These include all living beings that interact with each other and with the abiotic environment to
form a functional ecosystem.

a) Producers (Autotrophs)

• Green plants, algae, and some bacteria.

• Prepare their own food through photosynthesis using sunlight, water, and CO₂.

• Form the base of the food chain and supply energy to all other organisms.

b) Consumers (Heterotrophs)

Organisms that depend on others for food. They are classified into:

• Primary consumers – Herbivores like deer, rabbits, grasshoppers.

• Secondary consumers – Carnivores like snakes and frogs that feed on herbivores.

• Tertiary consumers – Top predators like lions, hawks, and tigers.

• Omnivores – Eat both plants and animals (humans, bears).

c) Decomposers (Saprophytes)

• Include fungi, bacteria, earthworms, and some insects.

• Break down dead plants and animals into simpler substances.

• Return nutrients to the soil, making them available to plants again.

• Essential for nutrient cycling and maintaining soil fertility.

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VTU Question Paper Contents: (For Reference)

1. List and explain the various wild life sanctuaries in India.

India has over 565 wildlife sanctuaries, each created to protect specific species, habitats, or

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ecosystems. Wildlife sanctuaries allow controlled human activities like grazing, eco-tourism, and
research, while ensuring protection of wildlife.

1. Gir Wildlife Sanctuary – Gujarat

• Famous for being the only natural habitat of the Asiatic Lion.

• Also supports leopards, hyenas, and antelopes.

• Dry deciduous forest ecosystem with rich biodiversity.

2. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary – Karnataka

• Known for tiger, elephant, gaur, and many bird species.

• Part of the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot.

• Dense evergreen and semi-evergreen forests.

3. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – Kerala

• Famous for elephants, sambar deer, and wild boar.

• The Periyar Lake inside the sanctuary enhances scenic beauty.

• Known for eco-tourism activities like boat rides and trekking.

4. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary – Tamil Nadu

• Lies at the tri-junction of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

• Home to tigers, elephants, leopards, and rare bird species.

• A key corridor for movement of elephants between states.

5. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary – Assam

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Known for endangered species like golden langur, pygmy hog, and Indian rhinoceros.

• Rich grassland ecosystem along the foothills of the Himalayas.

6. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary – Karnataka

• Habitat for black panther, elephants, crocodiles, and hornbills.

• Supports dense deciduous forests and the Kali River flows through it.

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• Popular for river rafting and wildlife photography.

7. Keoladeo Ghana Wildlife Sanctuary – Rajasthan

• A world-famous bird sanctuary (formerly Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary).

• Hosts over 300 species of migratory birds, including Siberian cranes.

• Wetland ecosystem ideal for ornithology studies.

8. Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary – Odisha

• Located around the Chilika Lake, India’s largest brackish water lagoon.

• Known for migratory birds, dolphins, crabs, and fish species.

• Provides nesting habitat for flamingos and pelicans.

9. Palamu Wildlife Sanctuary – Jharkhand

• One of the oldest sanctuaries in India.

• Supports tiger, leopard, elephant, and deer species.

• Dense sal forests dominate the area.

10. Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary – Rajasthan

• Known for its Royal Bengal Tigers.

• Also has sloth bears, leopards, and large herbivores.

• Features historic ruins and diverse dry forests.

11. Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary – Tamil Nadu

• Located in the Anamalai Hills.

• Habitat for lion-tailed macaque, elephants, tigers, and flying squirrels.

• Important for Western Ghats biodiversity conservation.

12. Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary – Chhattisgarh

• Dense forest area with tigers, leopards, bison, and deer.

• Forms part of the Achanakmar–Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve.

• Recognized for rich flora and fauna diversity.

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2. Illustrate the various drugs derived from biodiversity plants.

Biodiversity is a major source of life-saving medicines. Many modern drugs are derived directly
from plants or inspired by natural compounds found in them. These medicinal plants form the
foundation of traditional systems like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homeopathy, and also
contribute significantly to modern pharmaceutical industries.

Here are some important drugs derived from plants:

1. Aspirin
• Source Plant: Salix alba (Willow tree)
• Active Compound: Salicylic acid
• Use: Pain relief, fever reduction, anti-inflammatory effects.
• Explanation: Ancient people used willow bark for pain relief; modern aspirin is chemically
derived from its active compound.
2. Quinine
• Source Plant: Cinchona officinalis (Cinchona tree)
• Use: Treatment of malaria.
• Explanation: Quinine was the first effective anti-malarial drug and remains important for
severe malaria cases.
3. Morphine
• Source Plant: Papaver somniferum (Opium poppy)
• Use: Strong painkiller used in surgery and emergency medicine.
• Explanation: Morphine is one of the most powerful analgesics available.
4. Codeine
• Source Plant: Opium poppy
• Use: Cough suppressant and moderate pain relief.
• Explanation: Derived from the same plant as morphine but used in smaller, controlled doses.
5. Ephedrine
• Source Plant: Ephedra sinica (Ephedra plant)
• Use: Bronchodilator for asthma and nasal congestion.
• Explanation: Helps relax airway muscles, improving breathing.

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6. Atropine
• Source Plant: Atropa belladonna (Deadly nightshade)
• Use: Eye dilation in eye exams, treatment of nerve poisoning.
• Explanation: Widely used in ophthalmology and emergency toxicology.
7. Digoxin
• Source Plant: Digitalis purpurea (Foxglove plant)
• Use: Treatment of heart failure and arrhythmia.
• Explanation: Strengthens heart contractions and improves circulation.
8. Paclitaxel (Taxol)
• Source Plant: Taxus brevifolia (Pacific yew tree)
• Use: Anti-cancer drug for breast, ovarian, and lung cancer.
• Explanation: Inhibits cancer cell division; one of the most effective chemotherapy drugs.
9. Vinblastine & Vincristine
• Source Plant: Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar periwinkle)
• Use: Treatment of cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.
• Explanation: These compounds stop cancer cells from multiplying.
10. Reserpine
• Source Plant: Rauwolfia serpentina (Indian snakeroot / Sarpagandha)
• Use: Treatment of high blood pressure and mental disorders.
• Explanation: One of the earliest antihypertensive drugs discovered in India.
11. Curcumin
• Source Plant: Curcuma longa (Turmeric)
• Use: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer potential.
• Explanation: Widely used in Indian traditional medicine.
12. Neem-based Drugs
• Source Plant: Azadirachta indica (Neem)
• Use: Antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory treatments.
• Explanation: Neem extracts are used for skin infections, dental care, and immunity boosting.

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3. Describe the zoological garden with respect to biodiversity.

A zoological garden (zoo) is a specially designed area where animals are kept, cared for, conserved,
and displayed for educational and research purposes. With respect to biodiversity, zoological
gardens play a major role in ex-situ conservation, which means protecting species outside their
natural habitats. They act as important centres for preserving endangered species, maintaining
genetic diversity, and creating public awareness about wildlife conservation.

1. Centre for Ex-Situ Conservation

Zoological gardens provide a safe and controlled environment for animals that are threatened or
endangered in the wild. By keeping species outside their natural habitats, zoos help prevent
extinction caused by habitat loss, poaching, climate change, or human disturbances.

2. Breeding and Species Recovery Programs

A key contribution of zoos to biodiversity conservation is captive breeding.

• Endangered species such as the lion-tailed macaque, Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, and snow
leopard are bred in captivity.
• Successful breeding programs allow zoos to increase population numbers, maintain genetic
diversity, and in certain cases, reintroduce animals back into the wild.
This helps rebuild declining populations and preserve unique species for future generations.

3. Preservation of Genetic Diversity

Zoos follow scientific management practices, including maintaining studbooks and global
databases that track the origin, lineage, and breeding patterns of each animal.
This ensures genetic diversity is preserved within captive populations, avoiding inbreeding and
ensuring healthier offspring.

4. Education and Awareness

Zoological gardens serve as educational centres where students, researchers, and the public learn
about wildlife, endangered species, and the importance of biodiversity conservation.

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By observing animals closely, people develop respect for wildlife and understand the need to protect
ecosystems and natural habitats.

5. Research and Scientific Studies

Zoos support biodiversity conservation through research in:

• Animal behaviour
• Nutrition and health
• Reproductive biology
• Disease control
• Wildlife management

Such research helps scientists design better conservation strategies both inside and outside the zoo
environment.

6. Protection Against Extinction

Many species face threats such as poaching, climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution. Zoos
provide a secure space where these species can survive even if their wild populations decline.
Examples include red pandas, gharials, Himalayan wolves, and certain species of birds and reptiles.

7. Rehabilitation and Rescue Centres

Modern zoological gardens often function as rescue centres that rehabilitate:

• injured animals,
• orphaned animals,
• trafficked wildlife, and
• animals displaced due to natural disasters.

This helps conserve biodiversity by ensuring the survival of individual animals that might otherwise
die in the wild.

8. Support for In-Situ Conservation

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Although zoos are ex-situ facilities, they collaborate with national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and
forest departments by providing scientific support, funding, trained personnel, and breeding stock
for re-introduction programs.

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