UPSC Prelims 2011 · Question 94 of 100
UPSC Prelims 2011 question on Himalayas Species Diversity
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2011
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectEnvironment and Ecology
- TopicBiodiversity
- DifficultyMedium
- TypeDirect
The Himalayan Range is very rich in species diversity. Which one among the following is the most appropriate reason for this phenomenon?
Show answer
Answer: B. It is a confluence of different bio-geographical zones
Verdict
Correct Answer: It is a confluence of different bio-geographical zones
Analysis
The Himalayan range is rich in species diversity because it lies at the meeting point of different biogeographical regions. This allows species from different ecological and evolutionary zones to coexist.
1. It has high rainfall that supports luxuriant vegetative growth — Incorrect
High rainfall is found mainly in the Eastern Himalayas.
The Western Himalayas are comparatively drier, so rainfall alone cannot explain species richness across the entire Himalayan range.
2. It is a confluence of different bio-geographical zones — Correct
The Himalayas form a transition zone between different biogeographical realms, especially the Palaearctic and Indo-Malayan realms.
This mixing of species, along with variation in altitude and climate, creates high biodiversity.
3. Exotic and invasive species have not been introduced in this region — Incorrect
Invasive and exotic species are present in parts of the Himalayas.
So this cannot be the reason for its natural species richness.
4. It has less human interference — Incorrect
The Himalayas face significant human pressures such as deforestation, tourism, road construction, hydropower projects and urbanisation.
These pressures threaten biodiversity rather than explain its richness.
Extra UPSC info
* The Himalayas are part of a global biodiversity hotspot.
* Eastern Himalayas are more species-rich than Western Himalayas due to higher rainfall and warmer conditions.
* The Himalayas show altitudinal zonation: tropical, subtropical, temperate, alpine and cold desert ecosystems.
* Important species include snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan tahr and musk deer.
* The region connects the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia and Southeast Asia.
* Do not confuse local high rainfall with the broader biogeographical reason for Himalayan biodiversity.
How to crack it
The Himalayas are highly diverse because they are a meeting point of different biogeographical zones with varied altitude, climate and habitats.
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