NCERT Solutions For Class 11 Geography Chapter 14 Biodiversity and Conservation - 2025-26

1. Multiple choice questions.

(a) Conservation of biodiversity is important for:

• (a) Animals
• (b) Animals and plants
• (c) Plants
• (d) All organisms

Answer: (d) All organisms.

(b) Threatened species are those which:

• (a) threaten others
• (b) Lion and tiger
• (c) are abundant in number
• (d) are suffering from the danger of extinction

Answer: (d) are suffering from the danger of extinction.

(c) National parks and sanctuaries are established for the purpose of:

• (a) Recreation
• (b) Hunting
• (c) Pets
• (d) Conservation

Answer: (d) Conservation.

(d) Biodiversity is richer in:

• (a) Tropical Regions
• (b) Polar Regions
• (c) Temperate Regions
• (d) Oceans

Answer: (a) Tropical Regions.

(e) In which one of the following countries, the ‘Earth Summit’ was held?

• (a) the UK
• (b) Mexico
• (c) Brazil
• (d) China

Answer: (c) Brazil.

2. Answer the following questions in about 30 words.

(i) What is biodiversity?

Answer: Biodiversity is the number and variety of organisms found within a specified geographic region. It includes the varieties of plants, animals and micro-organisms, their genes, and the ecosystems they form, representing the variability among living organisms on earth.

(ii) What are the different levels of biodiversity?

Answer: The three levels of biodiversity are: (1) Genetic diversity – variation of genes within species, (2) Species diversity – variety and number of species in a defined area, and (3) Ecosystem diversity – diversity of habitats and ecological processes in different ecosystem types.

(iii) What do you understand by ‘hotspots’?

Answer: Hotspots are areas that are rich in species diversity, especially those with high levels of endemic species. These areas are identified for concentrated conservation efforts as they are most vulnerable and important for biodiversity conservation.

(iv) Discuss briefly the importance of animals to human kind.

Answer: Animals play crucial roles in ecological balance by pollinating plants, decomposing organic materials, cycling nutrients, serving as food and resources, and maintaining overall ecosystem health. They contribute greatly to the survival and development of human society.

(v) What do you understand by ‘exotic species’?

Answer: Exotic species are species which are not native to a particular habitat but have been introduced into it. These species can sometimes cause extensive damage to the local ecosystem and its native biotic community.

3. Answer the following questions in about 150 words.

(i) What are the roles played by biodiversity in the shaping of nature?

Answer: Biodiversity plays multiple roles in shaping nature through its ecological, economic, and scientific influence. Ecologically, diverse species capture and store energy, cycle water and nutrients, and help to fix atmospheric gases, all of which sustain ecosystem functions vital for life. The higher the biodiversity, the greater the ability of an ecosystem to withstand adversities and adapt to environmental changes, which in turn ensures productivity and system stability. Economically, biodiversity provides essential resources such as food, livestock, forests, fish, and medicinal resources. Crop and agro-biodiversity are crucial for food security and survival. Scientifically, biodiversity gives us clues about the evolution of life, the functioning of ecosystems, and the importance of every species. It embodies our ethical responsibility to respect all life forms, contributing to sustainable human culture and development. The conservation of biodiversity ensures balance and supports human existence.

(ii) What are the major factors that are responsible for the loss of biodiversity? What steps are needed to prevent them?

Answer: The main factors responsible for the loss of biodiversity include human population growth, over-exploitation of resources, deforestation, destruction of habitats, pollution, natural calamities, and the introduction of exotic species. Activities like poaching, use of pesticides, and habitat fragmentation also contribute to rapid species decline and endangerment. To prevent biodiversity loss, steps required are: preserving endangered species, proper management and planning to avoid extinction, conservation of food crops and wild relatives, protection of wildlife habitats, regulation of international trade in wild species, and sustainable development practices involving local communities. Legal frameworks like the Wild Life (Protection) Act, establishment of national parks, sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, and global agreements like the Convention of Biodiversity help safeguard biodiversity. Public education and responsible use of natural resources are essential for long-term conservation.

Biodiversity and Conservation NCERT Solutions 2025-26: Key Concepts

Mastering Biodiversity and Conservation is vital for scoring high in Geography. This chapter helps students understand the importance of preserving our natural resources and highlights why ecosystem diversity and protection are crucial for the planet's future.

The chapter explores genetic diversity, species richness, and conservation strategies. Reviewing well-structured answers boosts your exam confidence and ensures you remember the major factors affecting biodiversity. Use these insights to strengthen your conceptual clarity.

Practice all exercise questions regularly and revise key definitions. Understanding the causes and solutions for biodiversity loss will help you approach Geography questions smartly and achieve better results in your Board exams.