Here below some basic MCQ’s about biodiversity and conservation with answer which is explained in details. Let’s check one by one.
- Which of the following is NOT a cause of biodiversity loss?
a) Habitat destruction
b) Overexploitation
c) Conservation efforts
d) Climate change
Answer: c) Conservation efforts
Explanation: Conservation efforts aim to protect biodiversity, not harm it. Habitat destruction, overexploitation, and climate change are major threats leading to biodiversity loss.
- Biodiversity hotspots are regions that:
a) Have a high level of species richness
b) Are highly degraded
c) Have been completely conserved
d) Are free from human interference
Answer: a) Have a high level of species richness
Explanation: Biodiversity hotspots are regions that are rich in species but are also under threat from human activities. They contain a high number of endemic species (species found nowhere else).
- The term ‘biodiversity’ was coined by:
a) Edward O. Wilson
b) Charles Darwin
c) Ernst Mayr
d) Norman Myers
Answer: a) Edward O. Wilson
Explanation: Edward O. Wilson, an American biologist, popularized the term “biodiversity” and played a key role in its scientific development.
- Which of the following is an in situ conservation method?
a) Botanical garden
b) Wildlife sanctuary
c) Seed bank
d) Zoological park
Answer: b) Wildlife sanctuary
Explanation: In situ conservation involves protecting species in their natural habitats. Wildlife sanctuaries are areas where animals are protected in their native environment. Botanical gardens, seed banks, and zoological parks are ex situ conservation methods.
- The Red Data Book contains data on:
a) Endangered species
b) Extinct species
c) Fossil species
d) Domesticated species
Answer: a) Endangered species
Explanation: The Red Data Book, maintained by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), lists species that are at risk of extinction. It categorizes species as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered.
- Which of the following is the largest cause of species extinction today?
a) Pollution
b) Introduction of alien species
c) Habitat loss and fragmentation
d) Overhunting
Answer: c) Habitat loss and fragmentation
Explanation: The leading cause of species extinction is habitat loss and fragmentation due to human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion.
- Sacred groves are an example of:
a) Ex situ conservation
b) Sustainable use of biodiversity
c) In situ conservation
d) Community reserves
Answer: c) In situ conservation
Explanation: Sacred groves are patches of forests that are traditionally protected by communities due to their religious or cultural beliefs. They are examples of in situ conservation where biodiversity is preserved in its natural environment.
- Which organization publishes the Red List of Threatened Species?
a) UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme)
b) IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature)
c) WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature)
d) UNESCO
Answer: b) IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature)
Explanation: The IUCN publishes the Red List, which assesses the conservation status of plant and animal species globally, categorizing them based on their risk of extinction.
- Hotspots of biodiversity are characterized by:
a) High species diversity and high endemism
b) High species diversity and low endemism
c) Low species diversity and high endemism
d) Low species diversity and low endemism
Answer: a) High species diversity and high endemism
Explanation: Biodiversity hotspots are regions with a high level of species richness (diversity) and a large number of species that are found nowhere else (endemism).
- Which one of the following is an indirect method of biodiversity conservation?
a) Wildlife protection
b) Habitat restoration
c) Environmental awareness programs
d) Ex situ conservation
Answer: c) Environmental awareness programs
Explanation: Environmental awareness programs help in raising public consciousness about the importance of biodiversity conservation. While they are important, they do not directly involve the protection or restoration of habitats or species.
- The species-area relationship was first described by:
a) Charles Darwin
b) Alexander von Humboldt
c) Alfred Wallace
d) Ernst Mayr
Answer: b) Alexander von Humboldt
Explanation: Alexander von Humboldt observed that within a region, species richness increases with increasing explored area but only up to a limit. This relationship is mathematically described as S=CA^z where S is species richness, A is area, and C and Z are constants.
- Which of the following is a man-made cause for biodiversity loss?
a) Volcanoes
b) Floods
c) Pollution
d) Earthquakes
Answer: c) Pollution
Explanation: Pollution is a significant human-induced cause of biodiversity loss, particularly air, water, and soil pollution, which negatively affect species and ecosystems.
- Which of the following is the most biodiversity-rich ecosystem?
a) Desert
b) Coral reefs
c) Mangroves
d) Temperate forests
Answer: b) Coral reefs
Explanation: Coral reefs are often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea” due to their incredible species diversity and ecosystem productivity.
- Which category in the IUCN Red List includes species with no known individuals surviving?
a) Vulnerable
b) Extinct
c) Endangered
d) Critically endangered
Answer: b) Extinct
Explanation: A species is categorized as extinct when no individuals are known to exist after thorough searches in their natural habitats.
- Which of the following is NOT an example of an ex situ conservation method?
a) Cryopreservation
b) Seed banks
c) Wildlife sanctuary
d) Botanical garden
Answer: c) Wildlife sanctuary
Explanation: Wildlife sanctuaries are examples of in situ conservation methods, where species are protected in their natural habitats.
- Which of the following is NOT a biodiversity hotspot in India?
a) Western Ghats
b) Indo-Burma
c) Sundarbans
d) Himalayas
Answer: c) Sundarbans
Explanation: The Sundarbans is an ecologically important region but not classified as a biodiversity hotspot. The Western Ghats, Indo-Burma, and the Himalayas are recognized hotspots.
- Species which are found only in a particular region are called:
a) Native species
b) Exotic species
c) Endemic species
d) Keystone species
Answer: c) Endemic species
Explanation: Endemic species are those that are found in a specific geographic location and nowhere else in the world.
- Which of the following is an example of a keystone species?
a) Tigers in tropical forests
b) Blue whales in the ocean
c) Elephants in African savannas
d) Pandas in China
Answer: c) Elephants in African savannas
Explanation: Elephants are keystone species because they play a crucial role in maintaining the structure of the ecosystem. They help in seed dispersal and create clearings that other species use.
- The correct sequence in decreasing order of biodiversity among the following ecosystems is:
a) Mangroves > Coral reefs > Desert
b) Coral reefs > Tropical rainforests > Temperate forests
c) Tropical rainforests > Coral reefs > Deserts
d) Deserts > Coral reefs > Temperate forests
Answer: b) Coral reefs > Tropical rainforests > Temperate forests
Explanation: Coral reefs are the most diverse, followed by tropical rainforests and temperate forests. Deserts generally have lower biodiversity compared to other ecosystems.
- Which of the following is NOT a criterion for designating a region as a biodiversity hotspot?
a) High species richness
b) High levels of endemism
c) Low human population density
d) High threat from human activities
Answer: c) Low human population density
Explanation: A biodiversity hotspot is designated based on high species richness, high levels of endemism, and being under significant threat from human activities, not based on population density.
- Which of the following laws in India is related to wildlife protection?
a) Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
b) Forest Conservation Act, 1980
c) Environment Protection Act, 1986
d) Indian Forest Act, 1927
Answer: a) Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
Explanation: The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, is India’s primary legal instrument for the protection of wildlife, focusing on the conservation of species and their habitats.
- What percentage of Earth’s surface is covered by biodiversity hotspots?
a) 2%
b) 5%
c) 8%
d) 10%
Answer: a) 2%
Explanation: Biodiversity hotspots cover only about 2% of the Earth’s surface but are home to over 50% of the world’s endemic plant species and 42% of terrestrial vertebrate species.
- The Indian government launched Project Tiger in:
a) 1968
b) 1973
c) 1980
d) 1992
Answer: b) 1973
Explanation: Project Tiger was launched by the Indian government in 1973 to protect the Bengal tiger and its habitat, helping to stabilize tiger populations.
- The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) focuses on:
a) Forest conservation only
b) Wildlife conservation only
c) The conservation of biodiversity and reduction of human impact on the environment
d) Marine life conservation only
Answer: c) The conservation of biodiversity and reduction of human impact on the environment
Explanation: WWF is an international organization working on biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and reducing human environmental impact.
- In a biosphere reserve, the zone which is meant for human settlements and other activities is called:
a) Core zone
b) Buffer zone
c) Transition zone
d) Peripheral zone
Answer: c) Transition zone
Explanation: The transition zone in a biosphere reserve is where human activities such as settlements, agriculture, and tourism are allowed while promoting sustainable resource use.
- The Ramsar Convention is related to the conservation of:
a) Coral reefs
b) Forests
c) Wetlands
d) Desert ecosystems
Answer: c) Wetlands
Explanation: The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands, aiming to halt the loss of wetlands and ensure their wise use.
- Which of the following is NOT a major objective of biodiversity conservation?
a) Preserving species diversity
b) Sustainable utilization of species
c) Eliminating certain species
d) Maintaining ecological processes
Answer: c) Eliminating certain species
Explanation: Biodiversity conservation focuses on preserving species, their sustainable use, and maintaining natural processes, not eliminating species.
- The introduction of which of the following into a new environment can lead to the loss of biodiversity?
a) Endemic species
b) Exotic species
c) Native species
d) Keystone species
Answer: b) Exotic species
Explanation: Exotic species (non-native species) can become invasive and disrupt local ecosystems, leading to the decline or extinction of native species.
- Which of the following is considered an indirect value of biodiversity?
a) Ecosystem services
b) Food
c) Medicine
d) Fiber
Answer: a) Ecosystem services
Explanation: Indirect values of biodiversity include ecosystem services such as pollination, climate regulation, and water purification, which support human life without directly providing material benefits like food or fiber.
- Cryopreservation is used for:
a) Storing seeds at room temperature
b) Storing plant tissues at ultra-low temperatures
c) Preserving fossil specimens
d) Growing plants in tissue culture
Answer: b) Storing plant tissues at ultra-low temperatures
Explanation: Cryopreservation involves preserving biological materials, such as plant tissues or seeds, at extremely low temperatures (below -150°C) for long-term conservation.
- The primary objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is to:
a) Conserve biodiversity, ensure its sustainable use, and share benefits equitably
b) Protect forests only
c) Prevent desertification
d) Promote the breeding of endangered species
Answer: a) Conserve biodiversity, ensure its sustainable use, and share benefits equitably
Explanation: The CBD, adopted in 1992 at the Earth Summit, focuses on conserving biodiversity, promoting its sustainable use, and ensuring that the benefits from genetic resources are shared equitably.
- Which of the following is an example of on-farm conservation?
a) National parks
b) Gene banks
c) Traditional farming of indigenous crops
d) Zoos
Answer: c) Traditional farming of indigenous crops
Explanation: On-farm conservation involves preserving genetic diversity by allowing farmers to cultivate traditional crop varieties and indigenous species in their native habitat.
- Which of the following countries has the greatest biodiversity?
a) Russia
b) Australia
c) Brazil
d) Canada
Answer: c) Brazil
Explanation: Brazil has the greatest biodiversity on the planet, with vast tropical rainforests such as the Amazon, which are home to numerous species of plants, animals, and insects.
- The concept of biosphere reserves was introduced by:
a) IUCN
b) WWF
c) UNESCO
d) UNEP
Answer: c) UNESCO
Explanation: The concept of biosphere reserves was introduced by UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme to conserve biodiversity while promoting sustainable development.
- Which Indian National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity?
a) Sundarbans National Park
b) Kaziranga National Park
c) Jim Corbett National Park
d) Gir National Park
Answer: b) Kaziranga National Park
Explanation: Kaziranga National Park in Assam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its significant population of Indian rhinoceroses, rich biodiversity, and conservation efforts.
- An example of an alien invasive species that has caused biodiversity loss in India is:
a) African elephants
b) Nile crocodile
c) Lantana camara
d) Indian rhino
Answer: c) Lantana camara
Explanation: Lantana camara is an invasive plant species introduced to India that has spread rapidly, displacing native flora and reducing biodiversity in many ecosystems.
- The term “flagship species” refers to:
a) Species that are indicators of ecosystem health
b) Species chosen to represent an environmental cause or ecosystem
c) Species that play a crucial role in nutrient cycling
d) Endangered species with a small population
Answer: b) Species chosen to represent an environmental cause or ecosystem
Explanation: Flagship species are iconic species used to raise public awareness and support for biodiversity conservation efforts, like tigers or pandas.
- Which of the following is NOT an ex situ conservation strategy?
a) Zoological parks
b) Seed banks
c) Gene banks
d) Biosphere reserves
Answer: d) Biosphere reserves
Explanation: Biosphere reserves are part of in situ conservation strategies where ecosystems and their species are protected in their natural habitats.
- Which of the following is a direct benefit of biodiversity to humans?
a) Ecotourism
b) Carbon sequestration
c) Nutrient cycling
d) Climate regulation
Answer: a) Ecotourism
Explanation: Ecotourism is a direct economic benefit derived from biodiversity, where tourists visit natural areas to experience wildlife and ecosystems.
- Which of the following ecosystems has the highest primary productivity?
a) Desert
b) Grassland
c) Coral reef
d) Tropical rainforest
Answer: d) Tropical rainforest
Explanation: Tropical rainforests have the highest primary productivity due to their warm climate and high levels of precipitation, supporting diverse and abundant plant life.
- Which of the following is an example of an endemic species in India?
a) Asiatic lion
b) Bengal tiger
c) Nilgiri tahr
d) Snow leopard
Answer: c) Nilgiri tahr
Explanation: The Nilgiri tahr is an endemic species found only in the Western Ghats of India. Other species like the Bengal tiger and snow leopard have a wider distribution.
- Which one of the following is a consequence of the loss of biodiversity?
a) Increased ecosystem stability
b) Reduced resilience to environmental changes
c) More efficient nutrient cycling
d) Increased genetic diversity
Answer: b) Reduced resilience to environmental changes
Explanation: Biodiversity loss reduces ecosystem resilience, making ecosystems more vulnerable to environmental changes, such as climate shifts and natural disasters.
- What is the main purpose of the Kyoto Protocol?
a) To conserve biodiversity
b) To reduce greenhouse gas emissions
c) To protect endangered species
d) To manage water resources
Answer: b) To reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Explanation: The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement aimed at reducing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate global climate change.
- The species that dominate an ecosystem in terms of biomass are called:
a) Dominant species
b) Endemic species
c) Keystone species
d) Exotic species
Answer: a) Dominant species
Explanation: Dominant species are those that have the highest biomass or are the most numerous in an ecosystem, playing a significant role in shaping its structure and functioning.
- Which of the following human activities is the least likely to contribute to biodiversity loss?
a) Deforestation
b) Reforestation
c) Urbanization
d) Industrialization
Answer: b) Reforestation
Explanation: Reforestation involves planting trees in areas where forests have been cut down, helping to restore habitats and biodiversity rather than contribute to its loss.
- Which of the following is an example of an ecosystem service provided by wetlands?
a) Pollination
b) Carbon sequestration
c) Flood control
d) Erosion prevention
Answer: c) Flood control
Explanation: Wetlands provide essential ecosystem services, such as controlling floods by absorbing and slowly releasing excess water, thereby reducing flood risks.
- In conservation biology, the term “biological corridors” refers to:
a) Paths in forests reserved for human tourism
b) Strips of natural habitat connecting separated populations
c) Wildlife sanctuaries surrounded by agricultural land
d) Areas where ecosystems are restored artificially
Answer: b) Strips of natural habitat connecting separated populations
Explanation: Biological corridors are areas of habitat that connect fragmented ecosystems, allowing species to migrate and maintain genetic diversity.
- Which of the following is considered an indicator species?
a) Polar bear
b) Monarch butterfly
c) Bengal tiger
d) Honey bee
Answer: d) Honey bee
Explanation: Honey bees are indicator species because their presence or absence can indicate the health of ecosystems, particularly with regard to pollination and biodiversity.
- Which of the following is NOT an ecosystem service?
a) Nutrient cycling
b) Soil formation
c) Timber extraction
d) Water purification
Answer: c) Timber extraction
Explanation: Timber extraction is a human economic activity, while nutrient cycling, soil formation, and water purification are ecosystem services provided by natural processes.
- Which of the following international organizations provides the Red List of Threatened Species?
a) WWF
b) UNEP
c) IUCN
d) Greenpeace
Answer: c) IUCN
Explanation: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is responsible for maintaining the Red List of Threatened Species, which classifies species based on their risk of extinction.
- What is the primary cause of species extinction in the current century?
a) Natural disasters
b) Alien species invasion
c) Habitat loss
d) Climate change
Answer: c) Habitat loss
Explanation: Habitat loss due to human activities like deforestation, urbanization, and agriculture is the leading cause of species extinction today.
- Which of the following ecosystems is the most vulnerable to climate change?
a) Tropical rainforests
b) Coral reefs
c) Temperate grasslands
d) Desert ecosystems
Answer: b) Coral reefs
Explanation: Coral reefs are extremely sensitive to temperature changes, and even slight increases in sea temperatures can cause coral bleaching, leading to ecosystem collapse.
- Which of the following statements about biodiversity conservation is incorrect?
a) Ex situ conservation involves the protection of species in zoos and botanical gardens.
b) Biodiversity hotspots are areas with high levels of species richness and endemism.
c) Biosphere reserves promote both biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
d) Protected areas alone are sufficient for long-term biodiversity conservation.
Answer: d) Protected areas alone are sufficient for long-term biodiversity conservation.
Explanation: Protected areas are important, but alone they are insufficient. Effective biodiversity conservation requires a combination of approaches, including habitat restoration, legal frameworks, and public awareness.
- Which of the following statements about species diversity is true?
a) Species diversity increases as we move towards the poles.
b) Species diversity is highest at the equator.
c) Species diversity decreases as we move towards the equator.
d) Species diversity is independent of geographical location.
Answer: b) Species diversity is highest at the equator.
Explanation: Species diversity typically increases as we move from the poles toward the equator, with tropical regions like rainforests having the highest diversity.
- Which of the following is an example of genetic diversity?
a) Different species of finches on the Galapagos Islands
b) Variations in the size and shape of leaves among plants in the same forest
c) The variety of dog breeds found across the world
d) Different ecosystems in a tropical rainforest
Answer: c) The variety of dog breeds found across the world
Explanation: Genetic diversity refers to the variation in genes within species, such as the different breeds of dogs or crop varieties that result from different genetic makeups.
- Biodiversity hotspots are characterized by:
a) High species diversity and high levels of human activity
b) Low species diversity but high endemism
c) High species diversity and high endemism
d) Low species diversity and low endemism
Answer: c) High species diversity and high endemism
Explanation: Biodiversity hotspots are regions with exceptionally high levels of species richness and endemism, and they are under significant threat from human activities.
- Which of the following species is considered critically endangered by the IUCN?
a) Asian elephant
b) Bengal tiger
c) Javan rhinoceros
d) Blue whale
Answer: c) Javan rhinoceros
Explanation: The Javan rhinoceros is classified as critically endangered due to its extremely small population size and limited habitat.
- Which of the following is a key factor in maintaining ecosystem stability?
a) Species diversity
b) Human intervention
c) Pollution
d) Monoculture
Answer: a) Species diversity
Explanation: High species diversity contributes to the stability and resilience of ecosystems by ensuring that functional roles in the ecosystem are maintained even under environmental stress.
- An ecosystem with very low species diversity is likely to be:
a) Highly stable and resilient
b) Vulnerable to environmental changes
c) More productive
d) More resistant to invasive species
Answer: b) Vulnerable to environmental changes
Explanation: Ecosystems with low species diversity are more vulnerable to disturbances like climate change or disease because fewer species are available to perform essential ecological functions.
- Which of the following is an example of ecosystem diversity?
a) Variation in ecosystem types like forests, grasslands, and wetlands in a region
b) Genetic differences between individuals in a population
c) The number of different species in an ecosystem
d) Different adaptations of organisms to the same environment
Answer: a) Variation in ecosystem types like forests, grasslands, and wetlands in a region
Explanation: Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of ecosystems found within a geographical area, including their distinct communities, species, and environmental processes.
- Which of the following human activities has the greatest impact on biodiversity loss?
a) Hunting and poaching
b) Habitat destruction and fragmentation
c) Introduction of exotic species
d) Overfishing
Answer: b) Habitat destruction and fragmentation
Explanation: Habitat destruction and fragmentation due to urbanization, agriculture, and deforestation are the leading causes of biodiversity loss globally.
- In which of the following ecosystems would you expect to find the greatest number of endemic species?
a) Tundra
b) Tropical rainforest
c) Grassland
d) Temperate forest
Answer: b) Tropical rainforest
Explanation: Tropical rainforests are characterized by high species diversity and a large number of endemic species due to their stable climate and complex ecosystems.
- Which of the following terms refers to a species that has an outsized impact on its ecosystem, even though it may not be the most abundant?
a) Dominant species
b) Keystone species
c) Endemic species
d) Indicator species
Answer: b) Keystone species
Explanation: Keystone species have a disproportionately large impact on their ecosystem’s structure and function, often influencing the diversity and health of other species.
- Which of the following ecosystems is most impacted by ocean acidification?
a) Coral reefs
b) Mangroves
c) Temperate forests
d) Grasslands
Answer: a) Coral reefs
Explanation: Ocean acidification, caused by increased carbon dioxide absorption, significantly affects coral reefs, leading to coral bleaching and the disruption of marine ecosystems.
- Species that play a significant role in controlling the population of other species in an ecosystem are called:
a) Keystone species
b) Exotic species
c) Endangered species
d) Flagship species
Answer: a) Keystone species
Explanation: Keystone species are critical for maintaining the balance of an ecosystem by regulating populations of other species, often through predation or competition.
- Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a biodiversity hotspot?
a) High levels of species richness
b) High levels of endemism
c) Low levels of species extinction
d) High levels of threat from human activities
Answer: c) Low levels of species extinction
Explanation: Biodiversity hotspots are regions with high species richness and endemism but are also areas with significant threats to biodiversity, leading to higher risks of extinction.
- Which of the following is a key factor that promotes speciation?
a) Genetic isolation
b) Increased gene flow between populations
c) Loss of habitat
d) Overharvesting
Answer: a) Genetic isolation
Explanation: Genetic isolation occurs when populations are separated, preventing gene flow between them. This can lead to the evolution of new species over time, a process known as speciation.
- The primary purpose of captive breeding programs is to:
a) Conserve biodiversity in zoos
b) Reintroduce endangered species into the wild
c) Breed animals for entertainment
d) Enhance genetic diversity in domestic animals
Answer: b) Reintroduce endangered species into the wild
Explanation: Captive breeding programs aim to increase the population of endangered species in controlled environments, with the goal of reintroducing them into their natural habitats.
- The extinction of species due to human activity is termed:
a) Background extinction
b) Mass extinction
c) Anthropogenic extinction
d) Biological extinction
Answer: c) Anthropogenic extinction
Explanation: Anthropogenic extinction refers to the loss of species directly or indirectly caused by human activities, such as habitat destruction, pollution, or overexploitation.
- Which of the following ecosystems is typically associated with the greatest carbon sequestration potential?
a) Mangroves
b) Desert
c) Grasslands
d) Coral reefs
Answer: a) Mangroves
Explanation: Mangroves are highly effective at carbon sequestration, capturing and storing large amounts of carbon dioxide in both their biomass and the soil, making them critical for mitigating climate change.
- Which organization provides the “Living Planet Report” to assess global biodiversity trends?
a) UNEP
b) WWF
c) IUCN
d) Greenpeace
Answer: b) WWF
Explanation: The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) publishes the “Living Planet Report” every two years, assessing the state of global biodiversity and ecosystems.
- Which of the following human-induced phenomena has caused the largest loss of biodiversity globally?
a) Acid rain
b) Habitat destruction
c) Ozone depletion
d) Pesticide use
Answer: b) Habitat destruction
Explanation: Habitat destruction through deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion is the leading cause of biodiversity loss on a global scale.
- Which of the following species is an example of a “flagship species” used to promote conservation efforts?
a) House sparrow
b) African elephant
c) Common frog
d) Atlantic cod
Answer: b) African elephant
Explanation: Flagship species, such as the African elephant, are often used in conservation campaigns to raise awareness and inspire efforts to protect biodiversity.
- Which of the following types of biodiversity conservation focuses on the conservation of species in their natural habitat?
a) Ex situ conservation
b) In situ conservation
c) Captive breeding
d) Seed banking
Answer: b) In situ conservation
Explanation: In situ conservation involves protecting species in their natural habitat, preserving ecosystems and the biodiversity they contain.
- Which of the following practices is most likely to increase genetic diversity in a population?
a) Habitat fragmentation
b) Inbreeding
c) Gene flow between populations
d) Overharvesting
Answer: c) Gene flow between populations
Explanation: Gene flow, or the movement of genetic material between populations, increases genetic diversity by introducing new genetic variations into a population.
- Which of the following is an advantage of ex situ conservation?
a) It helps species adapt to their natural habitats.
b) It allows species to breed in controlled environments.
c) It increases genetic diversity in the wild.
d) It eliminates the need for habitat protection.
Answer: b) It allows species to breed in controlled environments.
Explanation: Ex situ conservation, such as in zoos or botanical gardens, enables breeding programs for endangered species in controlled environments, helping to maintain population numbers.
- A species found in only one geographic location and nowhere else is called:
a) Indigenous
b) Endemic
c) Exotic
d) Invasive
Answer: b) Endemic
Explanation: Endemic species are those that are restricted to a particular geographic area and are not found anywhere else in the world.
- Which of the following is an example of in situ conservation?
a) Seed banks
b) National parks
c) Botanical gardens
d) Captive breeding
Answer: b) National parks
Explanation: In situ conservation involves protecting species within their natural habitats, such as through the establishment of national parks or wildlife sanctuaries.
- Which of the following biomes is known for having the highest biodiversity?
a) Desert
b) Tundra
c) Tropical rainforest
d) Savanna
Answer: c) Tropical rainforest
Explanation: Tropical rainforests are the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, hosting a vast number of plant and animal species.
- Which of the following is NOT a threat to biodiversity?
a) Habitat destruction
b) Climate change
c) Sustainable agriculture
d) Overexploitation
Answer: c) Sustainable agriculture
Explanation: Sustainable agriculture aims to meet human needs while minimizing negative impacts on biodiversity, whereas habitat destruction, climate change, and overexploitation threaten biodiversity.
- What is the primary goal of wildlife corridors?
a) To provide animals with a safe space for reproduction
b) To connect fragmented habitats
c) To offer protection from predators
d) To increase human access to natural areas
Answer: b) To connect fragmented habitats
Explanation: Wildlife corridors are designed to link fragmented habitats, allowing animals to move between areas and access food, mates, and resources, thus promoting biodiversity.
- Which of the following is the most effective way to prevent species extinction?
a) Introducing new species into ecosystems
b) Establishing protected areas
c) Increasing pollution control measures
d) Encouraging habitat fragmentation
Answer: b) Establishing protected areas
Explanation: Creating protected areas like wildlife sanctuaries and national parks is one of the most effective ways to prevent species extinction by conserving their natural habitats.
- Which type of species is most vulnerable to extinction?
a) Species with wide geographic ranges
b) Species with large populations
c) Endemic species with small populations
d) Species with high reproductive rates
Answer: c) Endemic species with small populations
Explanation: Endemic species with small populations are more vulnerable to extinction due to their limited range and smaller genetic diversity, making them more susceptible to environmental changes.
- Which of the following ecosystems is known as a “carbon sink” due to its ability to store large amounts of carbon?
a) Deserts
b) Tropical rainforests
c) Grasslands
d) Coral reefs
Answer: b) Tropical rainforests
Explanation: Tropical rainforests act as significant carbon sinks by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, playing a vital role in regulating the global carbon cycle.
- Which of the following is an indirect value of biodiversity?
a) Food production
b) Climate regulation
c) Timber extraction
d) Medicinal resources
Answer: b) Climate regulation
Explanation: Indirect values of biodiversity include ecosystem services such as climate regulation, nutrient cycling, and pollination, which benefit human well-being without directly using biodiversity.
- Which of the following international agreements focuses on biodiversity conservation?
a) Kyoto Protocol
b) Paris Agreement
c) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
d) Montreal Protocol
Answer: c) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
Explanation: The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is an international treaty aimed at conserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable use, and ensuring the fair sharing of genetic resources.
- The introduction of non-native species into an ecosystem often results in:
a) An increase in biodiversity
b) Stabilization of the ecosystem
c) A threat to native species
d) No significant impact on the ecosystem
Answer: c) A threat to native species
Explanation: Non-native (invasive) species often outcompete native species for resources, disrupt ecosystems, and can lead to declines or extinction of native species.
- Which of the following species is an example of a keystone species?
a) Sea otter
b) House cat
c) Goldfish
d) Cow
Answer: a) Sea otter
Explanation: Sea otters are considered keystone species because they play a critical role in maintaining the structure of their ecosystem by controlling sea urchin populations, which in turn protect kelp forests.
- Which of the following is an example of a flagship species used to promote conservation?
a) Antelope
b) Snow leopard
c) Cockroach
d) Barn owl
Answer: b) Snow leopard
Explanation: Flagship species like the snow leopard are charismatic animals used in conservation campaigns to raise public awareness and support for conservation efforts.
- Which of the following approaches is a key element of in situ conservation?
a) Breeding endangered species in captivity
b) Creating national parks and wildlife reserves
c) Growing plants in botanical gardens
d) Storing seeds in seed banks
Answer: b) Creating national parks and wildlife reserves
Explanation: In situ conservation focuses on protecting species in their natural habitats by creating protected areas such as national parks and wildlife reserves.
- Which type of biodiversity involves the variety of ecosystems found in a particular region?
a) Species diversity
b) Genetic diversity
c) Ecosystem diversity
d) Functional diversity
Answer: c) Ecosystem diversity
Explanation: Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of ecosystems, such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands, within a region, each supporting distinct communities of organisms.
- Which of the following is a potential consequence of climate change on biodiversity?
a) Increased habitat stability
b) Reduced extinction rates
c) Shifts in species distribution
d) Improved ecosystem resilience
Answer: c) Shifts in species distribution
Explanation: Climate change can cause shifts in species distribution as organisms move to new areas with more favorable environmental conditions, often leading to disruptions in ecosystems.
- Which of the following is an example of species diversity?
a) The different breeds of cattle
b) The variety of species in a coral reef
c) The range of habitats in a forest
d) The genetic variation within a population of dogs
Answer: b) The variety of species in a coral reef
Explanation: Species diversity refers to the number of different species in a given area or ecosystem, such as the variety of fish, corals, and invertebrates in a coral reef.
- Which of the following strategies is effective in preventing the introduction of invasive species?
a) Encouraging monoculture farming
b) Implementing quarantine measures
c) Promoting habitat destruction
d) Increasing the use of pesticides
Answer: b) Implementing quarantine measures
Explanation: Quarantine measures help prevent the accidental introduction of invasive species by controlling the movement of organisms across regions, reducing the risk of ecosystem disruption.
- The Red Data Book is published by:
a) UNESCO
b) IUCN
c) WWF
d) UNEP
Answer: b) IUCN
Explanation: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) publishes the Red Data Book, which provides information on the conservation status of species globally, highlighting those at risk of extinction.
- Which of the following is an advantage of ecosystem diversity?
a) It reduces competition among species.
b) It promotes the stability and resilience of ecosystems.
c) It leads to the extinction of weaker species.
d) It eliminates the need for genetic diversity.
Answer: b) It promotes the stability and resilience of ecosystems.
Explanation: Ecosystem diversity enhances stability and resilience by supporting a wide range of species, habitats, and ecological processes, enabling ecosystems to withstand disturbances.
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