Biodiversity and Conservation Class 11 Geography Chapter 14 CBSE Notes 2025-26

Biodiversity means the variety of life found on Earth, including all plants, animals, and microorganisms, the genes they carry, and the ecosystems they form. This variety is a product of millions of years of evolution, shaped by natural processes and, more recently, by human influence. Biodiversity is richer in regions that receive more sunlight and water, such as the tropics, and it is basic to the stability and productivity of ecosystems.

Levels of Biodiversity Biodiversity is studied at three main levels: genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. Genetic diversity refers to the differences in genes within a species, such as variations in height, skin colour, and other features. This diversity helps populations adapt and survive. Species diversity means the different species found in a particular region, and ecosystem diversity includes the various ecosystems such as forests, deserts, and wetlands, each supporting unique communities of living organisms.

Importance of Biodiversity Biodiversity is crucial for human culture and wellbeing. It provides ecological services—like recycling nutrients, regulating climate, and protecting water resources. A diverse ecosystem also resists environmental stresses better and is more productive, which is why conservation is important. From economic perspectives, biodiversity is a source of food, medicinal resources, timber, and more. Agro-biodiversity, or crop diversity, is essential to ensure food security. Scientifically, studying biodiversity helps us understand evolution and ecosystem functioning.

Roles of Biodiversity in Nature Biodiversity plays ecological, economic, and scientific roles. Ecologically, each species in an ecosystem carries out specific functions, such as converting solar energy, forming organic materials, decomposing waste, and recycling nutrients. Economically, biodiversity provides resources that humans use daily, such as crops, livestock, and plants for medicines. Scientifically, diverse species help researchers learn how life evolved and maintains balance. Ethically, every species has a right to exist, and its loss disrupts natural harmony.

Loss of Biodiversity In recent decades, rapid human population growth and increased consumption have led to habitat destruction and species loss globally, especially in tropical areas where most of Earth's biodiversity is found. Over-logging, deforestation, pollution from pesticides and heavy metals, and the introduction of non-native species (exotic species) threaten native organisms. Wild animals are also poached, driving many species toward extinction.

Categories of Threatened Species The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) sorts threatened species into:

• Endangered species: Species at risk of extinction; they are listed in the IUCN Red List.
• Vulnerable species: Species likely to become endangered if the causes of their decline are not checked.
• Rare species: Species with small populations, often confined to specific areas.

What are Hotspots and Mega Diversity Centres? Some regions, known as biodiversity hotspots, are extremely rich in unique species and are especially vulnerable to threats. Hotspots are often defined by their plant life, which indicates ecosystem productivity. Many tropical countries—like India, Brazil, Madagascar, and Indonesia—are recognized as mega diversity centres because they possess a large share of the world’s species. Conservation efforts concentrate on these areas due to their high biological value.

Conservation of Biodiversity To ensure all forms of life thrive, it is important to reduce species extinction through well-planned management. Conservation actions include protecting habitats, regulating trade in wild species, and keeping a variety of food crops, livestock, and their wild relatives. The Government of India established national parks, sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves through the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to preserve natural habitats.

Countries signed global agreements like the Convention on Biological Diversity at the 1992 Earth Summit in Brazil. Some recommended actions for conservation are:

• Preserving endangered species and varieties of crops and animals.
• Identifying and protecting habitats, especially those where species feed and reproduce.
• Planning to prevent extinction with proper management.
• Regulating international trade in wild plants and animals.

Urgency for Education and Community Participation Conservation is not only about protecting species and habitats, but also about continuing sustainable practices. Educating people to adopt environment-friendly habits and involving local communities in conservation ensures that economic development remains harmonious with nature. Sustainable use of resources by local communities is key for ongoing preservation efforts.

Short Sample Questions for Revision

• Biodiversity means the number and variety of organisms present in a specific geographical area.
• Different levels of biodiversity: genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity.
• Hotspots are areas with high species richness and endemism but are under threat.
• Exotic species are those introduced to areas where they do not naturally belong, often causing damage to native ecosystems.
• Animals provide food, help in pollination, and maintain ecological balance vital for human survival.

MCQs for Practice

1. Conservation of biodiversity is important for all organisms.
2. Threatened species are those at risk of extinction.
3. National parks and sanctuaries are meant for conservation.
4. Biodiversity is richer in tropical regions.
5. The Earth Summit was held in Brazil.

Project Work Suggestion To understand the real-world application of conservation, collect names and locations of national parks, sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves in your state and mark them on the map of India. This helps visualize biodiversity protection efforts in your region.

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Class 11 Geography Chapter 14 Notes – Fundamentals of Physical Geography Biodiversity and Conservation

These Class 11 Geography Chapter 14 notes give a clear overview of biodiversity, conservation methods, and threats to ecosystems, making last-minute study easier. With key definitions, distinctions among genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity, as well as real-world examples, students can quickly revise all critical points covered in the chapter.

Whether you're preparing for school exams or competitive tests, these revision notes for Fundamentals of Physical Geography Biodiversity and Conservation provide concise bullet points and short answers for effective practice. Reviewing the MCQs and brief questions can strengthen your understanding and confidence.