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Semester 2: Skill Enhancement Course BIO GEOGRAPHY
Bio Geography Nature, Scope and Content Branches of Biogeography, Evolution of Flora and Fauna with Geological Time Scale Biosphere Components of the Biosphere Ecology and Environment
Bio Geography
Nature of Biogeography
Biogeography is the study of the distribution of species and ecosystems in geographic space and through geological time. It integrates concepts from ecology, geology, and evolutionary biology.
Scope of Biogeography
The scope includes understanding patterns of biodiversity, biogeographical regions, and the influence of historical and environmental factors on the distribution of flora and fauna.
Content Branches of Biogeography
Branches include historical biogeography, which examines the historical processes that shape biodiversity, and ecological biogeography, which focuses on current ecological factors that affect species distribution.
Evolution of Flora and Fauna
Flora and fauna evolve over geological time due to factors like continental drift, climate change, and species interaction, which shape their adaptations and distributions.
Geological Time Scale
The geological time scale categorizes Earth's history into various periods, allowing for the study of evolutionary events and the emergence of different species over time.
Biosphere
The biosphere encompasses all living organisms on Earth and their interactions with the environment, including the atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere.
Components of the Biosphere
Components include biotic factors (living organisms) and abiotic factors (climate, soil, water), which collectively influence ecosystems and biodiversity.
Ecology and Environment
Ecology studies the relationships between organisms and their environment, while the environment includes all external factors affecting organisms. Both are essential for understanding biogeographical patterns.
Biodiversity Meaning Definition Elements and Types of Biodiversity Biodiversity Hot Spots Value and Importance of Biodiversity
Biodiversity Meaning, Definition, Elements and Types, Biodiversity Hot Spots, Value and Importance of Biodiversity
Meaning and Definition of Biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It encompasses the different species, genetic variations within species, and the ecosystems themselves.
Elements of Biodiversity
There are three primary elements of biodiversity: species diversity (the variety of species within a geographical area), genetic diversity (the variation of genes within species), and ecosystem diversity (the range of different habitats within a region).
Types of Biodiversity
Biodiversity can be categorized into three main types: genetic diversity (variation in genetic makeup among individuals), species diversity (the number of different species and their relative abundance), and ecosystem diversity (the variety of ecosystems in a given area).
Biodiversity Hot Spots
Biodiversity hot spots are regions that are both rich in species diversity and are under significant threat from human activities. They are crucial for conservation efforts as they contain a high number of endemic species.
Value and Importance of Biodiversity
Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem services, including pollination, water purification, and climate regulation. It also provides resources for food, medicine, and raw materials. Biodiversity contributes to culture, recreation, and tourism, and enhances resilience against environmental changes.
Biomes Terrestrial Biomes, Freshwater Biomes, Marine biomes Biosphere Reserves of India - Anthropogenic Biomes
Biomes
Terrestrial Biomes
Terrestrial biomes are ecosystems found on land. They are characterized by their climate, vegetation, and animal life. Common types include forests, grasslands, deserts, and tundras. Each biome supports specific flora and fauna adapted to its environment.
Freshwater Biomes
Freshwater biomes include rivers, lakes, ponds, and wetlands. They are defined by low salt concentration and play a crucial role in the Earth's hydrological cycle. Biodiversity in freshwater biomes is rich, supporting various aquatic plants and animals.
Marine Biomes
Marine biomes cover the Earth's oceans and seas, accounting for about 70% of the Earth's surface. They are characterized by saltwater and include coral reefs, estuaries, and the open ocean. Marine biomes are vital for global climate regulation and support a vast array of marine species.
Biosphere Reserves of India
Biosphere reserves are designated areas aimed at conserving biological diversity, promoting research, and providing support for sustainable development. India has several noteworthy biosphere reserves, such as the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and the Sundarbans, each protecting unique ecosystems.
Anthropogenic Biomes
Anthropogenic biomes are ecosystems that have been significantly altered by human activity. Urban areas, farmland, and managed forests are examples. These biomes illustrate the impact of human land use on natural ecosystems and biodiversity.
Ecosystem Balance - Species Extinction Nature of Extinction, Threatened, Species, Species Conservation, Gene Banks, and Botanical Gardens, Zoological Gardens and Captive Breeding Centres, Biosphere Reserves, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries
Ecosystem Balance - Species Extinction
Nature of Extinction
Extinction is the end of an organism or a group of organisms (species). It occurs when a species ceases to exist, which can be a natural process or accelerated by human activities. Natural extinction rates are generally low, but the current rates are significantly higher due to habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, and overexploitation.
Threatened Species
Threatened species are those that are likely to become extinct in the near future. Categories include vulnerable, endangered, and critically endangered species. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) provides assessments and classifications based on the population size, degree of decline, and area of geographic distribution.
Species Conservation
Species conservation involves efforts to protect and restore species and their habitats. It includes legal protections, habitat restoration, and community engagement. Conservation strategies can be proactive or reactive, aiming to prevent extinction or revive populations.
Gene Banks
Gene banks are facilities that store genetic material from various species, particularly plants and animals. They preserve genetic diversity to prevent extinction and for future breeding programs. This ensures the survival of species and the resilience of ecosystems.
Botanical Gardens
Botanical gardens serve as conservation sites for plants, often hosting a diverse range of species. They play a crucial role in education, research, and the propagation of endangered plants. Many gardens collaborate with conservation organizations to enhance biodiversity.
Zoological Gardens and Captive Breeding Centres
Zoological gardens provide a habitat for endangered species and support conservation through breeding programs. Captive breeding centres focus on breeding individuals of threatened species to increase population numbers and eventually reintroduce them into the wild.
Biosphere Reserves
Biosphere reserves are protected areas that promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. They incorporate core areas for conservation, buffer zones for research and education, and transition areas for sustainable human use.
National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries
National parks and wildlife sanctuaries are designated areas aimed at preserving natural ecosystems and protecting wildlife. They provide crucial habitats for numerous species and play a significant role in conservation efforts, offering a sanctuary against habitat loss and exploitation.
Bio Diversity and Sustainable Development -Global Environmental Policies EIA, SDG - 17 Goals
Bio Diversity and Sustainable Development - Global Environmental Policies EIA, SDG - 17 Goals
Introduction to Biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, encompassing different species of plants, animals, and microorganisms, their genetic variation, and the ecosystems they form. Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem services, human health, food security, and climate resilience.
Importance of Biodiversity
Biodiversity contributes to ecosystem stability, resilience, and productivity. It supports essential services such as pollination, water purification, soil fertility, and climate regulation.
Threats to Biodiversity
Major threats include habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, invasive species, and overexploitation of resources. These factors lead to biodiversity loss, which has severe consequences for ecosystem health and human well-being.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals aim to address global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice. Goal 15 specifically addresses life on land and aims to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
EIA is a process used to evaluate the environmental effects of proposed projects before decisions are made. It ensures that potential impacts on biodiversity are considered and mitigated.
Global Environmental Policies
Policies like the Convention on Biological Diversity and international agreements seek to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable development. They encourage nations to implement strategies that balance development needs with environmental conservation.
Role of Education in Biodiversity Conservation
Education, such as courses in biogeography, plays a crucial role in informing individuals about the importance of biodiversity and sustainable development, fostering a culture of conservation.
