Scholar-Journalist
Wildlife and biodiversity conservation
By Agastya Khanna
Wildlife is vital for our ecosystem. There are many types of wildlife in deserts, mountains, polar, grassland, tropical and subtropical regions. Although in popular culture the term wildlife generally applies to animals that are unaffected by human activities and influence.
Conservation of biodiversity
Wildlife conservation is a practice in which people protect endangered plant species. Conservationists try to protect them from trophy hunting, where wild animals are canned in game reserves and are hunted for heads and skin to make decorative items. This practice is mainly done in Africa by big game hunters but in India, trophy hunting action is banned and there are strict rules to prevent poaching.
Indian biodiversity and conservation
India is a country of diversity. Being rich in art and culture, this nation is also rich in wildlife and biodiversity. It’s a biodiversity hotspot with various ecosystems ranging from the Himalayas alpine in the northern region to tropical forests in the south, sandy scorching desert in the west, and mangroves in the east. India has a variety of mammals, reptiles, amphibians and bird species.
The forests nurture 500 species of mammals and more than 2000 species of birds. This nation is the world’s most biodiverse region with 36 world biodiversity spots. Even if we look at the history of our country, wildlife took heavy damage like hunting during the colonial era and Islamic rule. Kings used to kill tigers for their satisfaction and pride. But now, at present, the government has made laws and taken strict actions for conservation.
Some facts on wildlife
- Since 3rd March 2014, World Wildlife Day is celebrated to raise awareness of global flora and fauna.
- Polar bears are black but their outer body is white.
- Loudest animal in the world is merely 2cm long known as pistol shrimp.
- Shock waves can reach 230 decibels, which is louder than a gunshot.
Facts about Indian diversity-
- Besides Africa, lion is only found in India in their natural habitat.
- India is home to nearly 70% world’s tiger population.
- India has 50% of the world’s aquatic plants.
- A rare breed of Camel ‘Kharai’ can swim 3 km long.
