Program – CIVIL ENGINEERING

Program Code – CE

Course- ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

Course Code – 22447

03/07/2020 MSBTEs e-content

MSBTE LEAD- STUDY AT YOUR DOORSTEP
 Unit III: Ecosystem and Biodiversity
CO 3:Conserve ecosystem and biodiversity
Topic:III
Ecosystem and
UO 3a: State the aspects and division of ecosystem
Biodiversity
03/07/2020

Written by

Mr Anant Fulzele
Course Expert
Course Expert

Mr Anant Fulzele
Lecturer,
Government Polytechnic,
Nagpur

Page 3 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 What we will learn today?

Learning Objective/ Key learning

State the aspects and divisions of ecosystem
Contents
Agenda points
1. 3.1 Ecosystem
Definition of ecosystem
2 Aspects of ecosystem 3.1.1 Definition of ecosystem
Divisions of ecosystem 3.1.2 Aspects of ecosystem
3
Structural
Key takeaways: Functional
3.1.3 Divisions of ecosystem
Producers
Mr. Anant Fulzele Consumers
Course Expert
Reducers
Page 4 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
 Concept Map

Aspects of Ecosystem Structural aspects

Functional aspects

Page 5 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 ECOSYSTEM

Definition:
The living community of plants and animals in any area
together with the non-living components of the
environment such as soil, air and water, constitute the
ecosystem.

A.G. Tansley (in 1935) defined the Eco-system as ‘the

system resulting from the integrations of all the living
and non-living actors of the environment’. Thus he
regarded the Eco-systems as including not only the
organism complex but also the whole complex of
physical factors forming the environment.

Page 6 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 ASPECTS OF ECO-SYSTEM

The eco-system can be defined as any spatial or organizational

unit including living organisms and non-living substances
interacting to produce an exchange of materials between the
living and non-living parts. The eco-system can be studied
from either structural or functional aspects.

ASPECT OF AN ECOSYSTEM –

➢ Structural aspect
➢ Functional aspect

Page 7 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 STRUCTURAL ASPECTS OF ECO-SYSTEM

► Abiotic components : Environmental factors

Physical Factors
• Light, Topography.
• Temperature, Moisture

Organic components
• Protein, Carbohydrates, Lipids
• link abiotic to biotic aspects.

Inorganic components
• CO2, N
• H2O, C

Page 8 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 STRUCTURAL ASPECTS OF ECO-SYSTEM

► Biotic Components : Organisms

Producers
• Plants

Consumers
• Animals
Decomposers
• Micro organisms

Page 9 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Functions of Ecosystem

Energy
Cycles

Food
Evolution
Chains

Nutrient
Diversity
Cycles

Page 10 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Functional aspects

1) Energy cycles

❑ The energy cycle is based on the flow of

energy through the ecosystem.
❑ Energy from sunlight is converted by plants
themselves into growing new plant material
which includes leaves, flowers, fruit,
branches, trunks and roots of plants.
❑ During photosynthesis carbon dioxide is
taken up by plants and oxygen is released.
❑ Animals depend on this oxygen for their
respiration.

.
Page 11 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
Functional aspects

2) Food chains

❑ Plants can grow by converting the sun’s energy

directly into their tissues, they are known as
producers in the ecosystem.
❑ The plants are used by herbivorous animals as
food, which gives them energy.
❑ The carnivores in turn depend on herbivorous
animals on which they feed.
❑ Thus the different plant and animal species are
linked to one another through food chains
❑ Each food chain has three or four links.

Page 12 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Functional aspects

3) Diversity-
Inter linkages between organisms

❑ The different plant and animal species are

linked to one another through food chains.
❑ Each food chain has three or four links.
However as each plant or animal can be
linked to several other plants or animals
through many different linkages.
❑ These inter-linked chains can be depicted as a
complex food web.
❑ This is thus called the ‘web of life’ that shows
that there are thousands of interrelationships
in nature.
Page 13 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
 Functional aspects

4) Nutrient cycles- (Biogeochemical cycles)

❑ Biogeochemical cycles are pathways of transport &
transformation of nutrient
❑ These consists of Two types –
Gaseous cycles e.g. Carbon cycle, Nitrogen cycle etc.
Sedimentary cycle e.g phosphorus cycle, sulphur cycle
etc.
❑ Carbon is released from ecosystem as carbon
dioxide gas by the process of respiration.
❑ This CO2 gas is used by plants to prepare
carbohydrates which is used by animals as food.
❑ Animals and plants again release CO2 through
respiration.

Page 14 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Functional aspects
5) Evolution -

❑ Ecological succession is a process through

which ecosystems tend to change over a period
of time.
❑ If a forest is cleared, it is initially colonized by a
certain group of species of plants and animals,
which gradually change through an orderly
process of community development.
❑ One can predict that an opened up area will
gradually be converted into a grassland, a
shrub land and finally a woodland & a forest
❑ Evolution of man from Monkeys is the result of
ecological succession.

Page 15 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Division of Ecosystem

The ecosystem can be divided, from the energetic view point into three types of
organisms: producers, consumers, and reducers. These can be explained as
under:

Page 16 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Division of Ecosystem
(1) Producer
Photosynthetic algae, plants and bacteria are the producers of
the ecosystem; all other organisms depend upon them directly
or indirectly for food
(2) Consumers
Consumers are herbivorous, carnivorous, and omnivorous
animals; they eat the organic matter produced by other
organisms.
(3) Reducers
Reducers are heterotrophic organisms like animals; they are
fungi and bacterial that decompose dead organic matter.

Page 17 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Summary

We have studied-
❖ Definition of ecosystem.
❖ Aspects of ecosystem –
Structural aspects
Functional aspects.
❖ Divisions of ecosystem –
Producers
Consumers
Reducers.

Page 18 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

References:

1. Dr. J. P. Sharma, 2009. Environmental Studies, 2nd Edition, Laxmi

publications, New Delhi, India.
2. M.P. Singh, 2005, Environment and Natural Resources Hardcover, Satish
Serial Publishing House, Delhi India.
3. Prof. Erach Bharucha, 2004. Textbook for Environmental Studies. University
Grants Commission, New Delhi, India.
4. Dr. Y. K. Singh, 2006. Environmental Science. NEW AGE INTERNATIONAL (P)
LIMITED, PUBLISHERS, New Delhi, India.
5. R. Rajgopalan, 2011. Environmental Studies: From crisis to cure, Oxford
University Press, New Delhi, India.
6 Images & pictures from Google web sites.

Page 19 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

THANK YOU ALL

HAVE A NICE DAY

Program – CIVIL ENGINEERING
Program Code – CE

Course- ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

Course Code – 22447

05/07/2020 MSBTEs e-content

MSBTE LEAD- STUDY AT YOUR DOORSTEP
 Unit III: Ecosystem and Biodiversity
CO 3:Conserve ecosystem and biodiversity
Topic:III
Ecosystem and
UO 3b: State the general characteristics and
functions of ecosystem Biodiversity
05/07/2020

Written by
Mr Anant Fulzele
Course Expert
Course Expert

Mr. Anant Fulzele

Lecturer,
Government Polytechnic,
Nagpur

Page 3 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 What we will learn today?

Learning Objective/ Key learning

State the general characteristics and functions of ecosystem

Agenda points Contents

1.
General characteristics 3.1 Ecosystem
2 Functions of ecosystem
3.1.4 General characteristics of ecosystem
Key takeaways:
3.1.5 Functions of ecosystem

Mr. Anant Fulzele

Course Expert

Page 4 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF AN ECO-SYSTEM

According to Smith following are the general characteristics of eco-system.

(1) The ecosystem is a major structural and functional unit of ecology.

(2) The structure of an eco-system is related to its species diversity;
as such the more complex ecosystem has high species diversity.

(3) The relative amount of energy required to maintain an ecosystem depends on its
structure. The more complex the structure, the lesser the energy it requires to maintain itself.

Page 5 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF AN ECO-SYSTEM Continued…

(4) The function of the ecosystem is related to energy flow in material

cycling, through and within the system.

(5) Ecosystems mature by passing from less complex to more complex

states. Early stages of such succession have an excess of potential
energy. Later (mature) stages have less energy accumulation.

(6) Both the environment and the energy fixation in any given ecosystem
are limited. They cannot be exceeded in any way without causing
serious undesirable effect.

(7) Alterations in the environments represent selective pressures upon the

population to which it must adjust. Organisms, which fail to adjust to
the changed environment, must vanish.

Page 6 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Functions of Eco-system

Page 7 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Functions of Eco-system
1. Transformation of Solar Energy into Food
Energy (Photosynthesis)

❑ The solar radiation is the basic input of energy

entering the ecosystem.
❑ The green plants receive it. And is converted
into heat energy.
❑ It is only a small proportion of radiant solar
energy that is used by plant to make food
through the process of photosynthesis.
❑ Green plants transform a part of solar energy
into food energy or chemical energy.
❑ The chemical energy becomes the source of
energy to the herbivorous animals of the food
chain.

Page 8 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Functions of Eco-system

2. The Circulation of elements through Energy

Flow (e.g Carbon Cycle)
❑ In the various biotic components of the
ecosystem the energy flow is the main driving
force of nutrient circulation.
❑ The organic and inorganic substances are
moved reversibly through various closed
system of cycles in the biosphere, atmosphere,
hydrosphere and lithosphere.
❑ This activity is done in such a way that total
mass of these substances remains almost the
same and is always available to biotic
communities.

Page 9 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Functions of Eco-system
3. The Conversion of Elements into Inorganic Flow (e.g
Nitrogen Cycle)
The organic elements of plants and animals are released in the
under mentioned ways:
(i) Decomposition of leaf fallen from the plants ,dead plants
and animals by decomposers and their conversion into soluble
inorganic form.
(ii) Burning of vegetation by lighting, accidental forest fire or
deliberate action of man. When burnt, the portions of organic
matter are released to the atmosphere and these again fall
down, under the impact of precipitation, on the ground. Then
they become soluble inorganic form of element to join soil
storage.
(iii) The waste materials released by animals are decomposed
by bacteria. They find their way in soluble inorganic form to
soil storage.

Page 10 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Functions of Eco-system
4. The Growth and Development of Plants

❑ In the biogeochemical cycles are included

the uptake of nutrients of inorganic
elements by the plants through their
roots.
❑ The nutrients are derived from the soil
where these inorganic elements are
stored.
❑ The decomposition of leaves, plants and
animals and their conversion into soluble
inorganic form are stored into soil
contributing to the growth and
development of plants.

Page 11 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Functions of Eco-system

5. Productivity of ecosystem
❑ The productivity of an
ecosystem refers to the rate of
production i.e. the amount of
organic matter, which is
accumulated in any unit time.
.

Page 12 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Summary

We have studied :
1. Various characteristics of ecosystem
2. Various functions of ecosystem.

Page 13 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

References:

1. Dr. J. P. Sharma, 2009. Environmental Studies, 2nd Edition, Laxmi

publications, New Delhi, India.
2. M.P. Singh, 2005, Environment and Natural Resources Hardcover, Satish
Serial Publishing House, Delhi India.
3. Prof. Erach Bharucha, 2004. Textbook for Environmental Studies. University
Grants Commission, New Delhi, India.
4. Dr. Y. K. Singh, 2006. Environmental Science. NEW AGE INTERNATIONAL (P)
LIMITED, PUBLISHERS, New Delhi, India.
5. R. Rajgopalan, 2011. Environmental Studies: From crisis to cure, Oxford
University Press, New Delhi, India.
6. Images & pictures from Google web sites.

Page 14 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

THANK YOU ALL

HAVE A NICE DAY

Program – CIVIL ENGINEERING
Program Code – CE

Course- ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

Course Code – 22447

25/07/2020 MSBTEs e-content

MSBTE LEAD- STUDY AT YOUR DOORSTEP
 Unit III: Ecosystem and Biodiversity
CO 3: Conserve ecosystem and biodiversity
Topic:III
Ecosystem and
UO 3c: List the levels of biodiversity
Biodiversity
25/07/2020

Written by

Mr Anant Fulzele
Course Expert
Course Expert

Mr Anant Fulzele
Lecturer,
Government Polytechnic,
Nagpur

Page 3 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 What we will learn today?

Learning Objective/ Key learning Contents

List the levels of biodiversity 3.2 Biodiversity
3.2.1 Definition of biodiversity
Agenda points
1. 3.2.2 Levels of biodiversity
Definition of biodiversity
2 Levels of biodiversity Genetic biodiversity
Species biodiversity
Key takeaways: Ecosystem biodiversity

Mr Anant Fulzele
Course Expert

Page 4 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Concept Map

Levels of
Biodiversity

Genetic Species Ecosystem

Biodiversity Biodiversity Biodiversity

Page 5 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Biodiversity

Bio – Life: Diversity- Variety

Biodiversity is the variety and variability among all group of living organisms and the
ecosystem in which they occur
Definition:
Biological diversity’ or biodiversity is that part of nature which includes the differences
in genes among the individuals of a species, the variety and richness of all the plant and
animal species at different scales in space, locally, in a region, in the country and the
world, and various types of ecosystems, both terrestrial and aquatic, within a defined
area.

Page 6 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Levels of biodiversity :
Biodiversity is generally described in terms of its 3 fundamental and hierarchically related
levels of biological organisms. These are -

Page 7 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Levels of biodiversity :
Genetic diversity
❑ It includes the genetic variations within species, both
among geographically separated populations and among
individuals within single population.
e.g. variety of rice, teak wood ,dog etc.
❑ Each member of any animal or plant species differs widely
from other individuals in its genetic makeup because of
the large number of combinations possible in the genes
that give every individual specific characteristics.
❑ Thus, for example, each human being is very different
from all others. This genetic variability is essential for a
healthy breeding population of a species

Page 8 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Levels of biodiversity :
Species diversity
❑ It includes full range of species from micro
organisms to giants and mammoth varieties of
plants and animals, e.g. single celled viruses and
bacteria etc. and multi-cellular plants, animals and
fungi.
❑ Plant species - e.g. Apple, mango, grapes etc.
Animal species- e.g. Lion, tiger, elephant etc.
❑ Natural undisturbed tropical forests have a much
greater species richness than plantations
developed by the Forest Department for timber
❑ At present conservation scientists have been able
to identify and categorize about 1.8 million species
on earth

Page 9 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Levels of biodiversity :
Ecosystems diversity

❑ It provides variation in the biological

communities in which species Jive, exist and
interact.
e.g .River ecosystem, Forest ecosystem,
Desert ecosystem etc.
❑ There are a large variety of different
ecosystems on earth, which have their own
complement of distinctive inter linked species
based on the differences in the habitat.
❑ India is exceptionally rich in its ecosystem
diversity.

Page 10 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Levels of biodiversity :
Ecosystems diversity
❑ Alpha diversity – It refers to a group of organisms interacting & competing for the
same resources or sharing the same environment.
❑ For example, In Ecosystem X, α = Varity of species in one ecosystem α = 4

A
SPECIES
D
SPECIES
B
SPECIES
C
SPECIES

Page 11 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Levels of biodiversity :
Ecosystems diversity
❑ Beta diversity – It refers to the expression of diversity between habitats.
❑ For example,
In Ecosystem X and Y,
β= Only uncommon species variety in two adjacent ecosystem , β= 6

A F

D
X Y
B G
E

C H

Page 12 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Levels of biodiversity :
Ecosystems diversity
❑ Gama diversity – It refers to the landscape diversity or Diversity of habitats within a
landscape or region.
❑ For example,In Ecosystem X , Y and Z
γ= All uncommon species and Common species are considered only once γ= 12
Z

F
E
G

B H
D I
X A Y
L J
C K

Page 13 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Summary

We have studied-
❖ Definition of biodiversity
❖ Levels of biodiversity
Genetic biodiversity
Species biodiversity
Ecosystem biodiversity
❖ Alpa, Beta and Gamma diversity

Page 14 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

The Process of examination of change in spacies diversity between
ecosystem is a measure of ..
a) Alpha diversity
b) Beta diversity
c) Gamma diversity
d) Genetic diversity

Page 15 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

The Process of examination of change in spacies diversity between
ecosystem is a measure of ..
a) Alpha diversity
b) Beta diversity
c) Gamma diversity
d) Genetic diversity

Page 16 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Question-2

Species Habitate-1 Habitate-2 Habitate-3

A X ALPHA diversity 1
B X X
C
4
X X X
D X X X ALPHA diversity 2

E X X 4
F X ALPHA diversity 3
G X
5
Bita diversity (1 vs 2) ? 4 Bita diversity (1 vs 2) ? 3
Bita diversity (2 vs 3) ? 3 GAMMA diversity (1 vs 2) ? 7
Page 17 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
"Tundra" is an example of _ _ _ _ type of Ecosystem
a)Marine
b)Terrestrial
c) Microbiological
d) None of the above

Page 18 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

"Tundra" is an example of _ _ _ _ type of Ecosystem
a)Marine
b)Terrestrial
c) Microbiological
d) None of the above

Page 19 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Select the correct statement of biodiversity .
a) The desert area of Rajasthan and Gujarat have a very high level
of desert animal species as well as numerous rare animals.
b) Large scale planting of BT cotton has no adverse effect on
biodiversity
c) Western Ghats have a very high degree of species richness and
endemism
d) Conservation of biodiversity in just a fad pursued by the
developed countries.

Page 20 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Select the correct statement of biodiversity .
a) The desert area of Rajasthan and Gujarat have a very high level
of desert animal species as well as numerous rare animals.
b) Large scale planting of BT cotton has no adverse effect on
biodiversity
c) Western Ghats have a very high degree of species richness and
endemism
d) Conservation of biodiversity in just a fad pursued by the
developed countries.

Page 21 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Consumer for food that feeds on producers are known
as_____________________
a) Carnivores
b) Consumers
c) Herbivores
d) Producers

Page 22 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Consumer for food that feeds on producers are known
as_____________________
a) Carnivores
b) Consumers
c) Herbivores
d) Producers

Page 23 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

The food chain from grass to hawk and again it comes back to grass
with the help of fungi. In the above explain food chain, what is
grass?
a) Producers
b) Consumers
c) Decomposers
d) Energy source

Page 24 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

The food chain from grass to hawk and again it comes back to grass
with the help of fungi. In the above explain food chain, what is
grass?
a) Producers
b) Consumers
c) Decomposers
d) Energy source

Page 25 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

The process in which green plants and few organisms use sunlight
to synthesize nutrients is known_________________
a) Chemosynthesis
b) Photosynthesis
c) Food chain
d) Food web

Page 26 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

The process in which green plants and few organisms use sunlight
to synthesize nutrients is known_________________
a) Chemosynthesis
b) Photosynthesis
c) Food chain
d) Food web

Page 27 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

On what category consumers are classified into?
a) Herbivore
b) Carnivore
c) Omnivore
d) Herbivore, carnivore, omnivore and scavenger

Page 28 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

On what category consumers are classified into?
a) Herbivore
b) Carnivore
c) Omnivore
d) Herbivore, carnivore, omnivore and scavenger

Page 29 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

What is called for an organism which breakdown dead or waste
matter into simpler substances?
a) Decomposers
b) Producers
c) Insects
d) Consumers

Page 30 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

What is called for an organism which breakdown dead or waste
matter into simpler substances?
a) Decomposers
b) Producers
c) Insects
d) Consumers

Page 31 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

References:

1. Dr. J. P. Sharma, 2009. Environmental Studies, 2nd Edition, Laxmi

publications, New Delhi, India.
2. M.P. Singh, 2005, Environment and Natural Resources Hardcover, Satish
Serial Publishing House, Delhi India.
3. Prof. Erach Bharucha, 2004. Textbook for Environmental Studies. University
Grants Commission, New Delhi, India.
4. Dr. Y. K. Singh, 2006. Environmental Science. NEW AGE INTERNATIONAL (P)
LIMITED, PUBLISHERS, New Delhi, India.
5. R. Rajgopalan, 2011. Environmental Studies: From crisis to cure, Oxford
University Press, New Delhi, India.
6 Images & pictures from Google web sites.

Page 32 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

21/07/2020 MSBTEs e-content
MSBTE LEAD- STUDY AT YOUR DOORSTEP
 Unit III: Ecosystem and Biodiversity

CO 3: Conserve ecosystem and

biodiversity Topic:
UO 3d: Enlist the endangered species. Biodiversity
21/07/2020

Written by
Ms. Swati Ingale
Course Expert
Lecturer, NIT Polytechnic,
Nagpur
What we will learn today? Concept Map
Learning Objective/ Key takeaways
Students will able to understand importance
of Biodiversity
Conservation
of Biodiversity
Content: 3.4
1. Threats to the Biodiversity Threat Hotsp
2. Hotspots of Biodiversity s to ots Endan
3. List of Endangered species
the gered
4. Conservation of Biodiversity
Biodiv of specie
ersity Biodiv s
ersity

Page 3 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Threats to the Biodiversity

► Biodiversity is under serious threat as a result

of human activities.
► CAUSES OF BIODIVERSITY LOSSES
There are four major causes (called “The Evil
Quartet”) of biodiversity losses:
1. Habitat loss and fragmentation,
2. Over exploitation,
3. Alien species invasions
4. Co-extinction

Page 4 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Threats to the Biodiversity
1. Habitat loss and fragmentation:
► The tropical rain forests, once covering 14 per cent of the land surface of Earth,

but now they cover only 6 per cent of the land area.
► The Amazon rain forests (called the ‘lungs of the planet’) are cleared for cultivation of
soybeans or are converted into grasslands for raising beef-cattle.
► The loss of a habitat deprives many animals and plants their homes and they face extinction.

► Degradation of many habitats by pollution threatens the survival of many species.

2. Over Exploitation:
► When ‘need’ turns to ‘greed’, it leads to over- exploitation of natural resources; many species
become extinct,
► e.g.: Steller’s sea cow, passenger pigeon, many marine fishes became extinct due to over-
exploitation by humans.

Page 5 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Threats to the Biodiversity
3. Alien species invasions:
► When alien species are introduced in an area, some of them become invasive and may cause
extinction of indigenous species,
► e.g.: Introduction of Nile Perch into Lake Victoria (East Africa) caused extinction of many
species of cichlid fish in lake.
► Invasive weed species such as Parthenium (carrot grass)

4. Co-extinction:
► When a species becomes extinct, the plant and animal species associated with it also become
extinct, e.g.
► When a host fish becomes extinct, its unique parasites also become extinct.

► Similarly, when one partner of a co-evolved pollitator mutualism becomes extinct, the other
partner also have the same fate.

Page 6 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Hotspots of Biodiversity
► A biodiversity hotspot is a biogeographic region
that is both a significant reservoir
of biodiversity and is threatened with
destruction.
► Large regions containing exceptional
concentrations of plants and animals and
experiencing high rates of habitat loss.
► Important hot spots in India,
1.Western Ghats and Sri Lanka
2.Himalaya
3.Indo-Burma

Page 7 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Hotspots of Biodiversity
1. Western Ghats And Sri Lanka
► The western Ghats, known locally as the Sahyadri
hills run parallel to India's western coast, about 30
to 50 Km inland.
► They cover an area about 1,60,000 Sq Km and
stretch for 1,600 Km from Gujarat to south tip.
► It is habitat for variety of mammals, reptiles, birds
and plants.

Purple Moor Hen Bison Nilgiri Tahr

Page 8 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Hotspots of Biodiversity
2. Himalayan
► Includes the entire Indian Himalayan region (and
that falling in Pakistan, Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan,
China and Myanmar).
► The hotspot is home to important populations of
numerous large birds and mammals, including
vultures, tigers, elephants, rhinos and wild water
buffalo.

Tiger Rhino Vultures

Page 9 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
Hotspots of Biodiversity
3. Indo-burma
► Encompassing more than 2 million km² of
tropical Asia. Indo-Burma is still revealing its
biological treasures.
► Six large mammal species have been discovered
in the last 12 years. This hotspot also holds
remarkable endemism in freshwater turtle
species. Bird life in Indo-Burma is also incredibly
diverse, holding almost 1,300 different bird
species

Spot billed pelican Saola Pangolins

Page 10 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
Endangered species
► Organisms whose number have declined
rapidly and species might be wiped off from
the earth in near future are called
Endangered Species
► World Wildlife Federation (WWF) published
a book containing the details of endangered
and threatened species of Flora and Fauna
called as RED DATA BOOK or RED LIST BOOK
► The RED DATA BOOK symbolizes a warning
signal for those species which are
endangered and have to be protected.
Otherwise they are likely to become extinct
in the near future.

Page 11 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Endangered Species of India

Animals Birds Plants

Asiatic Lion Birds Great Indian Bustard Assam Catkin Yew
Bengal Tiger Red Headed Vulture
Great Indian Bustard
Forest Owlet
Red Headed Vulture Ilex Khasiana
Snow Leopard Forest Owlet Spoon Billed Sandpiper Red Sandalwood
Blackbuck Spoon Billed Sandpiper
Jerdon’s Courser
Jordon's Courser Ebony
Red Panda White Bellied Bengal
Heron Florican Musli
One Horned Rhinoceros White Bellied Heron
Himalayan Quail
Sociable Lapwing Actinodaphne Lawsoni-
The Nilgiri Tahr Himalayan Quail
Siberian Crane Malabar Mahagony
Sociable Lapwing
Kashmir Red Stag (Hangul) https://www.nelda.org.in/blog/category/importance-
Siberian Crane of-trees/7-endangered-trees-species-in-india-which-
Lion Tailed Macaque https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-
knowledge/list-of-ten-critically-endangered-species-
may-soon-go-extinct

of-birds-in-india-1461561626-1
Indian Bison (Gaur)
https://www.india.com/travel/articles/10-endangered-
animals-in-india-that-you-should-see-before-they-vanish-
3241001/

Page 12 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Conservation of Biodiversity

► There are two approaches for conservation of biodiversity:

Cons
1. In –situ conservation ( on site conservation)
ervati
2. Ex-situ conservation ( off site conservation)
on of
In – Biodi Ex-
situ versit situ
consWildl y cons
Biosp ervatife Sacre Botan ervat
Natio Zoolo
here d ical Seed Gene
nal ionSanct gicalion
Reser Grov Gard Banks Banks
Parks uarie Parks
ves es ens
Page 13
s Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
In –situ conservation ( on site conservation)
1. Biosphere Reserves
► These are large tracts of protected land with multiple use preserving the genetic diversity of representative
ecosystem by protecting wildlife, traditional life styles of the tribals and varied plant and animal genetic
resources.
2. National Parks
► These are areas reserved for wildlife where they are able to obtain all the required natural resources and
proper habitats.
3. Wildlife Sanctuaries
► These Are Tracts Of Land With Or Without lake where animals are protected from all types of exploitation
and habitat disturbance.
4. Sacred Groves
► These are tracts of forest set aside where all the trees and wildlife within are venerated and given total
protection.
► Such sacred groves are found in Khasi and Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya; Aravali Hills of Rajasthan; Western
Ghat regions of Karnataka and Maharashtra and the Sarguja; Chanda and Bastar area of Madhya Pradesh.

Page 14 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Ex-situ conservation ( off site conservation)
1. Botanical Gardens: Botanical garden is a place where plants, especially ferns, conifers
and flowering plants, are grown and displayed for the purposes of research and
education.
2. Zoological Parks: The place where wild animals and, in some instances, domesticated
animals are exhibited in captivity. In such an establishment, animals can generally be
given more intensive care than is possible in nature reserves or sanctuaries.
3. Seed Banks: A seed bank is a bank where seeds of different crops and rare plant
species are stored for future use. Seed banks are created to maintain and protect
biodiversity, where samples of all species are collected and stored.

4. Gene Banks: Gene banks are a type of bio repository which preserve genetic material.
For plants, this is done by in vitro storage, freezing cuttings from the plant, or stocking
the seeds. For animals, this is done by the freezing of sperm and eggs in zoological
freezers until further need.

Page 15 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Various Laws for conservation of biodiversity
► The concept of conservation of biodiversity is enshrined
in the Indian Constitution in Article 48(A) and 51A (g).
Major Central Acts relevant to biodiversity are:

► The Indian Forest Act, 1927;

► The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972;
► The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980;
► The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986;
► The Biological Diversity Act, 2002;
► The Scheduled Tribes and Other Forest Dwellers
(Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.

http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/78334/9/09_chapter%205.pdf

Page 16 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

International Efforts For Biodiversity Conservation
► THE EARTH SUMMIT
► It was the historic convention on Biological diversity, held in Rio de
Janeiro in 1992.
► It called upon all the nations to take appropriate measures for
Conservation of biodiversity, and (ii)Sustainable utilization of the
benefits of biodiversity.

► THE WORLD SUMMIT

► It was held in 2002 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
► 190 countries pledged their commitment to achieve a significant
reduction in the current rate of biodiversity loss at global, regional
and local levels by 2010.

Page 17 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 References:

1. Prof. Erach Bharucha, 2004. Textbook for Environmental Studies. University Grants
Commission, New Delhi, India.
2. Dr. Y. K. Singh, 2006. Environmental Science. NEW AGE INTERNATIONAL (P) LIMITED,
PUBLISHERS, New Delhi, India.
3. Dr. J. P. Sharma, 2009. Environmental Studies, 2nd Edition, Laxmi publications, New Delhi,
India.
4. M.P. Singh, 2005, Environment and Natural Resources Hardcover, Satish Serial Publishing
House, Delhi India.
5. R. Rajgopalan, 2011. Environmental Studies: From crisis to cure, Oxford University Press,
New Delhi, India.

Page 18 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Biodiversity

Biodiversity adds a flavor in healthy Environment hence its

Conservation is a Global Need.

Page 19 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Summary

We have studied :
1. Threats to the Biodiversity
2. Hotspots of Biodiversity
3. List of Endangered species
4. Conservation of Biodiversity

Page 20 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Course- ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
Course Code – 22447

21/07/2020 MSBTEs e-content

MSBTE LEAD- STUDY AT YOUR DOORSTEP
 Unit III: Ecosystem and Biodiversity

CO - C: Conserve ecosystem and

biodiversity Topic:
UO 3e:Describe value of biodiversity. Biodiversity
21/07/2020

Written by
Ms. Swati Ingale
Course Expert
Lecturer, NIT Polytechnic,
Nagpur
What we will learn today? Concept Map
Learning Objective/ Key takeaways • Consumptive Use Value
Students will able to understand Values of Values of • Productive use value
• Social Use Value
Biodiversity
Biodiversit • Ethical and Moral Values
Content:3.2
1. Values of Biodiversity
y • Aesthetic Value

2. Biodiversity Assessment Initiative in Biodiversit

• Forests ecosystems
India
y • Inland wetlands ecosystems
Assessmen • Coastal and marine ecosystems.

t
Initiative in
India
Page 3 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
 Biodiversity:
➢ Biodiversity is the term used to
describe the variety of life found on
Earth and all of the natural processes.
► This includes ecosystem, different
species and their connections with
each other.

Page 4 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Values of Biodiversity
► Consumptive Use Value
► Productive use value

► Social Use Value

► Ethical and Moral Values

► Aesthetic Value

Page 5 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Consumptive Use Value
► It is the direct utilization of biodiversity by local
communities.
► The biodiversity contained in the ecosystem provides
forest dwellers with all their daily needs like food,
building material, fodder, medicines and a variety of
other products.
► They are well-known about the qualities and different
uses of wood, frits, flowers, seeds etc from different
species of trees.
► Fisher folks are completely dependent on fish and know
where and how to catch fish and other edible aquatic
animals and plants.

Page 6 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Productive use value
► New species of plants and animals are being constantly
discovered by biotechnologist These wild species are
the building blocks for the betterment of human life.
► Biological diversity is the raw material from which new
drugs can be identified from plant or animal products.
► Genetic diversity enables scientists and farmers to
selectively develop better crops and domestic animals
through careful breeding programs.
► This category also comprises of marketable products
such as animal skins, ivory, medicinal plants, honey,
beeswax., fibers, gums etc…..,

Page 7 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Social Use Value
► ‘Ecosystem people’ value
biodiversity as a part of their
livelihood as well as through
cultural and religious
sentiments.
► Biodiversity in INDIA is
important for its religious,
spiritual and other cultural
uses.
► Many plants and animals have
spiritual significance.

Page 8 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Ethical and Moral Values
► Ethical values of biodiversity are
based on the importance of
protecting all form of life.

► Man is only a small part of the

Earth’s great family of species; plants
and animals have an equal right to
live and exist on our planet.
► Indian civilizations has preserved
nature through local traditions over
several generations.

Page 9 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Aesthetic Value
► Biodiversity is a beautiful and wonderful
aspect of nature. For Example- Sitting in a
forest and listening to the birds, Watching a
spider weaving its complex web, Observing a
fish, It is just magnificent and fascinating.
► Biodiversity is a source of imagination and
creativity for Writers and poets
► it is important for tourist attraction.
► In many countries, history and culture is
reflected through plant and animal image.
► In India, The Banyan tree, Peepal tree and
Basil or the ‘Tulsi’ has spiritual importance for
centuries.

Page 10 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Biodiversity Assessment Initiative in India
► India is one of the 17 mega-diverse countries on the planet, with only 2.4%
of the world’s land area, yet accounts for 7-8% of all recorded species. India
has 10 biogeographic zones and is home to 8.58% of the mammalian species
documented so far, 13.66% avian species, 7.91% reptiles, 4.66% amphibians,
11.72% fishes and 11.80% for plants.
► India's growing population, rapid economic growth and industrialization have
increased the pressure on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
► The conservation of biodiversity and ecosystems is vital national priority as
they are linked to the country’s economic, ecological and social well-being.
► Economic valuations of ecosystem services and biodiversity are used to
improve the conservation and management of ecosystems
► The initiative focuses on three ecosystem types:

1. Forests ecosystems
2. Inland wetlands ecosystems
3. Coastal and marine ecosystems.

Page 11 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Forest Ecosystems
➢ Forest is an area with a high density of trees,
together with other plants, covering a large area of
land.
➢ India’s successful endeavour in expanding forest
cover is widely acknowledged. An effective Forest
(Conservation) Act, 1980, further strengthened by
the National Forest Policy, 1988, a massive
afforestation programme, establishment of
biosphere reserves, and re-vegetation of degraded
lands through Joint Forest Management and
people’s participation, account for the success in
forest and biodiversity conservation.
https://www.giz.de/en/downloads/giz2015-en-
ecosystems-biodiversity-interim-report-india.pdf

Page 12 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Inland Wetlands Ecosystem
► Wetlands are ecosystems located at the interface of land and
water. Inland wetlands refer to those wetlands which don't
have a direct connection with the sea.
► The floral diversity supported by these ecosystems range from
unicellular algae, bryophytes, mosses and ferns to woody
angiosperms. The number of plant species within Indian
wetlands is nearly 1,200.
► The Government of India has been implementing the National
Wetlands Conservation Program (NWCP) since the year 1985-
86. Aim of the Program is Conservation of wetlands in the
country so as to prevent their further degradation and
ensuring their wise use for the benefit of local communities
and overall conservation of biodiversity.
► https://www.giz.de/en/downloads/giz2015-en-ecosystems-biodiversity-interim-report-
india.pdf

Page 13 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Coastal and Marine Ecosystems
► Coastal and marine ecosystems provide many services to
human society and are of great economic value like food
and water resources, and raw materials like sand, and
other high-value heavy minerals like ilmenite, zircon,
monazite etc., which are collected from beach sand.
► The number of species in the coastal and marine
ecosystems is suggested to be more than 13,000. It is also
known for high biological productivity, which provide a
wide range of habitat for many aquatic flora and fauna.
► India has established 31 Coastal and Marine Protected
Areas (CMPAs) and several species have been listed under
Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972.
https://www.giz.de/en/downloads/giz2015-en-ecosystems-biodiversity-interim-report-
india.pdf

Page 14 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 References:

1. Prof. Erach Bharucha, 2004. Textbook for Environmental Studies. University Grants
Commission, New Delhi, India.
2. Dr. Y. K. Singh, 2006. Environmental Science. NEW AGE INTERNATIONAL (P) LIMITED,
PUBLISHERS, New Delhi, India.
3. Dr. J. P. Sharma, 2009. Environmental Studies, 2nd Edition, Laxmi publications, New Delhi,
India.
4. R. Rajgopalan, 2011. Environmental Studies: From crisis to cure, Oxford University Press,
New Delhi, India.
5. THE ECONOMICS OF ECOSYSTEMS AND BIODIVERSITY: INDIA INITIATIVE
https://www.giz.de/en/downloads/giz2015-en-ecosystems-biodiversity-interim-report-india.pdf

Page 15 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Biodiversity

Biodiversity adds a flavor in healthy Environment hence its

Conservation is a Global Need.

Page 16 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Summary
We have studied :
1. Values of Biodiversity
► Consumptive Use Value

► Productive use value

► Social Use Value

► Ethical and Moral Values

► Aesthetic Value

2. Biodiversity Assessment Initiative in India

► Forests ecosystems

► Inland wetlands ecosystems

► Coastal and marine ecosystems.

Page 17 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Course- ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
Course Code – 22447

09/07/2020 MSBTEs e-content

MSBTE LEAD- STUDY AT YOUR DOORSTEP
 Unit III: Ecosystem and Biodiversity
CO 3:Conserve ecosystem and biodiversity
Topic:III
Ecosystem and
UO 3f :Suggest methods of biodiversity
conservation. Biodiversity
22/07/2020

Written by

Mr Anant Fulzele
Course Expert
Course Expert

Mr Anant Fulzele
Lecturer,
Government Polytechnic,
Nagpur

Page 3 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 What we will learn today?
Learning Objective/ Key learning
3f: Suggest methods of biodiversity conservation.
Contents
Agenda points
1. Conservation of biodiversity 3.5 Conservation of Biodiversity

2 Objects 3.5.1 Objects

3 Various Laws 3.5.2 Various laws

Key takeaways:

Mr Anant Fulzele
Course Expert

Page 4 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Concept Map
Biodiv
ersity
conse Ex-
In-situ rvatio situ
conse n conse
rvatio
Wildli Biosp Botan
Natio rvatio
Zoolo Seed /
n
fe here ical
nal n
gical Gene
Sanct Reser Garde
Parks Parks Bank
uaries ve n

Page 5 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Biodiversity Conservation
Biodiversity Conservation
❑ The hope for conservation of natural biodiversity rests
on preservation of selected ecosystems and
representative areas of different vegetation types in
the country. as well as on saving some of the
extinction-prone species.
❑ The number of endangered species of plants and
animals is on the rise, which has prompted
government and non-governmental organizations to
take certain steps
❑ In this direction. Forestry and wildlife were primarily
under the control of state governments but later on
looking to the gravity of the situation a separate
Ministry of Environment and Forests was established.
Page 6 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
Biodiversity Conservation :

The aims and objectives of wildlife management in India includes

the following -

Page 7 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Biodiversity Conservation :

Laws Governing Biodiversity Conservation in India :

❑ The Madras Wild Elephant Preservation Act, 1873.
❑ All India Elephant Preservation Act, 1879.
❑ The Indian Fisheries Act, 1897.
❑ Wild Birds and Wild Animals Protection Act, 1912.
❑ The Indian Forest Act, 1927.
❑ Bengal Rhinoceros Act, 1932.
❑ Haily National Park Act.. 1936.
❑ Bombay Wild, Animals and Wild Birds Protection Act, 1951.
❑ Assam Rhinoceros Protection Act, 1954.
❑ The Cruelty Against Animals Act, 1960.
❑ The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
❑ The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. (xiii) Wildlife (Protection)
Amendment Act; 1991.
❑ Conservation of Forests and National Ecosystems Act, 1994.

Page 8 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Biodiversity Conservation :
IN-SITU AND EX-SITU CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY :

The goal of biodiversity conservation can be attained in a

number of ways. The concept of gene banks regulates all
these methods.
In-situ conservation :
❑ It can be defined as the conservation of plants and
animals in their native ecosystem (natural habitats) or
even man made ecosystem, where they naturally occur.

❑ This type of conservation is applicable to wild flora and

fauna as conservation is achieved through protection of
populations in their natural ecosystems.

❑ The concept of protected areas falls under this category

e.g. National Parks, Sanctuaries and Biosphere reserves
etc.
Page 9 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
Biodiversity Conservation :

Ex-situ conservation :
❑ It can he defined as the conservation of plants
and animals away from their natural habitats.
❑ It includes collection of samples of genetic
diversity and their treatment in the laboratory,
where they are cultured.
❑ The concept of ‘Gene banks’ has primarily
become the talk for ex-situ conservation as it is
important for conservation of agricultural crops
and forestry based afforestation programmes.
❑ Genetic resource centres fall under this category
and include botanical gardens, zoological parks ,
seed banks , gene banks etc.

Page 10 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Biodiversity Conservation :
Distribution between National Park, Sanctuary and Biosphere Reserve for In-situ conservation :
S.N. National Park Sanctuary Biosphere Reserve
1 Associated to the habitat of wild These are species oriented as Takes into consideration the
animal species. like rhino, tiger, pitcher plant, Indian Bustard. entire ecosystem.
lion etc..

2 The size range is 0.04-3162 sq.km The size range is 0.61-7818 sq. The size range is 5670 sq. km.
km.
Boundaries marked by legislation
3 Boundaries not sacrosanct Boundaries marked by legislation
Disturbance only limited to buffer
zone Disturbance only limited to buffer
4 Limited disturbance zone.
Tourism allowed
Tourism generally not allowed
5 Scientific management is lacking Tourism allowed
Scientifically managed
6 No attention is paid to gene pool Scientific management is
conservation lacking Attention is paid

7 No attention is paid to gene

pool conservation
Page 11 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024
 Biodiversity Conservation :
National Park:

❑ According to the Indian Board for Wild Life (IBWL), “a National Park is an area dedicated
by statute for all time to conserve the scenery, natural and historical objects, to
conserve the wild life there in and to provide for enjoyment of the same in such manner
and by such means, that will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future
generations with such modification as local conditions may demand”.
❑ The history of National parks in India begins in 1936 when the Hailey (now Corbett)
national parks of United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh) was created.
❑ The area is declared for the protection and preservation for all time of wild animal life
and wild vegetation for the benefit and advantage and enjoyment of the general public.
❑ In this area hunting of fauna or collection of flora is prohibited except under the
direction of park authority.
❑ There are 104 existing national parks in India covering an area of 40501.13 km2, which is
1.23% of the geographical area of the country (National Wildlife Database, May, 2019)

Page 12 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Biodiversity Conservation :
Sanctuary :

❑ The Indian Board for Wild Life has defined a sanctuary as, ‘An area where killing, hunting,
shooting or capturing of any species of bird or animal is prohibited except by or under the
control of highest authority in the department responsible for the management of the
sanctuary and whose boundaries and character should be sacrosanct as far as possible.
❑ By June 1992 India had 416 sanctuaries.
❑ The Board has further clarified the position by stating that while the management of
sanctuaries does not involve suspension or restriction of normal forest operation, it is
desirable to aside a completely sacrosanct area within a sanctuary to be known as
‘Abhyaranya’.
❑ It has also indicated that sanctuaries should be made accessible to the public.
❑ Wildlife sanctuaries of India are classified as IUCN Category IV protected areas. Between
1936 and 2016, 543 wildlife sanctuaries were established in the country that cover
118,918 km2 (45,914 sq mi) as of 2017.

Page 13 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Important Wildlife Reserve / Sanctuaries in India

Page 14 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Biodiversity Conservation :
Biosphere Reserves
❑ Biosphere Reserves have been described as undisturbed
natural areas for scientific study as well as areas in which
conditions of disturbance are under control.
❑ These serve as the centres for ecological research and
habitat protection, The “Biosphere consists of two main
zones as :
Core area & Buffer zone.
❑ Presently, there are 18 notified biosphere
reserves in India.

Page 15 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Important Biosphere Reserves in India

Page 16 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Special projects :
➢ Project Tiger :
❑ A fast decline of the tiger population lead to the set up of a special task force in
1970 by the Indian Board for Wildlife
❑ It prepared an action plan to conserve the tiger population in India. As a result
‘Project Tiger’ was launched on 1 April 1973
➢ Gir Lion Project :
❑ The Asiatic lion is now confined to the Gir Forest of Gujarat. The sanctuary harbored
nearly 200 of them. The great reduction in the number was due to the increased
threat from overgrazing, depletion of prey species, etc.
❑ The Asiatic lion was in danger of being wiped out either due to starvation, epidemics
or human interference. In 1972 the State government prepared a scheme for the
management of the Gir Lion Sanctuary with proper guidelines for conservation. The
Centre provided assistance for the protection and improvement of the habitat.

Page 17 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

Special projects :
➢ Himalayan Musk Deer Project :
❑ The musk deer (Moschus moschiferus) which was once found throughout the Himalayan
tract has terribly suffered due to its musk been used in the preparation of perfumes and
medicine. Secondly the habitat destruction brought about a sharp decline in their population.
A conservation project was therefore launched at the Kedarnath sanctuary in U.P.
➢ Crocodile Breeding Project :
❑ The three varieties of crocodile population viz., gharial (cavialis gangeticus), the mugger
(Crocodylus palusstris) and the salt-water crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) witnessed a sharp
decline by the early 1970s. With the assistance of the UNDP, the Government of India
launched a crocodile breeding and management project.
➢ The Project Elephant :
❑ It was launched with a view to protect and conserve the elephant population of the country.
Project Elephant aimed at restoring degraded habitats of elephants. Creation of migration
corridors, elimination of human interference and establishment of a data base on the
migration and population dynamics of elephants e.g. elephant habitat restoration work was
done in Rajaji National Park.

Page 18 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

 Summary

We have studied -

❖ Conservation of biodiversity
❑ Objects
❑ Various Laws
❑ In-situ conservation
❑ Ex-situ conservation

Page 19 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

References:

1. Dr. J. P. Sharma, 2009. Environmental Studies, 2nd Edition, Laxmi

publications, New Delhi, India.
2. M.P. Singh, 2005, Environment and Natural Resources Hardcover, Satish
Serial Publishing House, Delhi India.
3. Prof. Erach Bharucha, 2004. Textbook for Environmental Studies. University
Grants Commission, New Delhi, India.
4. Dr. Y. K. Singh, 2006. Environmental Science. NEW AGE INTERNATIONAL (P)
LIMITED, PUBLISHERS, New Delhi, India.
5. R. Rajgopalan, 2011. Environmental Studies: From crisis to cure, Oxford
University Press, New Delhi, India.
6 Images & pictures from Google web sites.

Page 20 Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education 1 November 2024

THANK YOU ALL

HAVE A NICE DAY