BIO GEOGRAPHICAL ZONES OF INDIA (WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION)

 

WILDLIFE

Wildlife refers to all living organisms that are not domesticated by humans and exist in natural habitats such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, and deserts. It includes a wide range of species such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. Wildlife is an essential component of our natural environment and plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

Here are some of the significant reasons why wildlife is important:

1.      Biodiversity: Wildlife is a significant source of biodiversity, which refers to the variety of life on earth. Biodiversity is crucial for maintaining the natural processes that sustain life, such as water and air purification, nutrient cycling, and pollination.

2.      Ecological balance: Wildlife plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance by regulating the populations of other species and maintaining the health of ecosystems. For example, predators keep the populations of prey species in check, which helps to prevent overgrazing and maintain healthy vegetation.

3.    Cultural significance: Wildlife has significant cultural and spiritual importance for many societies around the world. It is often an integral part of traditional customs, beliefs, and practices.

4.      Economic importance: Wildlife is a source of income for many people around the world. For example, ecotourism generates significant revenue in many countries, and the hunting and fishing industries provide employment and income for millions of people.

5.      Scientific value: Wildlife provides valuable opportunities for scientific research and study. Studying wildlife can help us understand how ecosystems function, how species adapt to changing environments, and how we can better conserve and manage natural resources.

 

Values of wildlife:

Wildlife has various values, including ecological, economic, cultural, aesthetic, scientific, recreational, and medicinal values. Here are some points that elaborate on each of these values:

1.      Ecological value: Wildlife plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance and health of ecosystems. Some of the ecological values of wildlife are:

·         Pollination: Many animals, such as bees and butterflies, help to pollinate plants, which is essential for the reproduction of many plant species.

·         Seed dispersal: Wildlife, such as birds and mammals, help to disperse seeds, which is essential for the survival and regeneration of plant species.

·         Nutrient cycling: Wildlife, such as insects and decomposers, play a vital role in breaking down organic matter, which helps to recycle nutrients in the ecosystem.

·         Predation and herbivory: Predators and herbivores help to control the populations of other species, which helps to maintain the balance and health of ecosystems.

2.      Economic value: Wildlife provides various economic benefits to human societies. Some of the economic values of wildlife are:

·         Ecotourism: Many people travel to different parts of the world to see wildlife, which generates significant revenue for local communities and economies.

·         Hunting and fishing: The hunting and fishing industries provide employment and income for millions of people worldwide.

·         Agriculture and forestry: Many species of wildlife, such as bees and birds, provide important ecosystem services that support agriculture and forestry.

3.      Cultural value: Wildlife has significant cultural and spiritual importance for many societies around the world. Some of the cultural values of wildlife are:

·         Traditional beliefs and practices: Many indigenous communities around the world have traditional beliefs and practices related to wildlife, which are an integral part of their culture and identity.

·         Art and literature: Many artists and writers draw inspiration from wildlife, which has contributed to the development of various art forms and literary works.

·         Spiritual and religious significance: Many religions and spiritual practices have beliefs and rituals related to wildlife, which reflect the deep connections between humans and the natural world.

4.      Aesthetic value: Wildlife has a significant aesthetic value, which refers to the aesthetic pleasure and beauty that wildlife provides. Some of the aesthetic values of wildlife are:

·         Wildlife photography and art: Many people enjoy taking photographs and creating art inspired by wildlife.

·         Ecotourism: Many people travel to see wildlife because of its beauty and aesthetic appeal.

·         Nature appreciation: Many people appreciate the beauty and diversity of wildlife and natural environments, which provides them with a sense of well-being and connection to nature.

5.      Scientific value: Wildlife provides valuable opportunities for scientific research and study. Some of the scientific values of wildlife are:

·         Conservation biology: Studying wildlife helps us understand the biology and ecology of species, which is essential for conservation efforts.

·         Ecosystem functioning: Studying wildlife helps us understand how ecosystems function and the ecological processes that sustain life on Earth.

·         Evolution and adaptation: Studying wildlife helps us understand the processes of evolution and adaptation, which are crucial for understanding the diversity of life on Earth.

6.      Recreational value: Wildlife provides various recreational opportunities for people. Some of the recreational values of wildlife are:

·         Wildlife watching: Many people enjoy watching wildlife in its natural habitat, which provides them with a sense of connection to nature and relaxation.

·         Hunting and fishing: Many people enjoy hunting and fishing as a recreational activity, which provides them with a sense of adventure and challenge.

·         Nature-based recreation: Many people enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities in natural environments, which provides them with physical and mental health benefits.

7.      Medicinal value: Wildlife provides various medicinal benefits to human societies. Some of the medicinal values of wildlife are:

·         Traditional medicine: Many indigenous communities use wildlife and plants to treat various health conditions and diseases.

·         Bioprospecting: Many species of wildlife contain compounds that have potential medicinal properties. Bioprospecting involves searching for and developing new drugs and medicines from natural sources, such as wildlife.

·         Conservation medicine: Studying wildlife helps us understand the links between the health of ecosystems and the health of humans and other species, which is essential for preventing and controlling disease outbreaks.

 

In conclusion, wildlife has various values, including ecological, economic, cultural, aesthetic, scientific, recreational, and medicinal values. These values highlight the importance of protecting and conserving wildlife for the benefit of both humans and the natural environment.

 

BIOGEOGRAPHICAL ZONES OF INDIA:

1.      Trans-Himalayan Region:

·         Altitude: Located at high altitudes, ranging from 3,000 meters to over 7,000 meters above sea level.

·         Climate: Cold and arid climate with low precipitation and extreme temperature variations.

·         Ecosystem: Dominated by cold desert ecosystems, including barren rocky landscapes and sand dunes.

·         Topography: The region is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys, and high plateaus.

·         Vegetation: The vegetation cover is sparse and includes hardy shrubs, stunted trees, and drought-resistant herbs.

·         Wildlife: The Trans-Himalayan region is home to several unique and endangered species, such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan ibex, and Tibetan wild ass (kiang).

·         Economic Importance: The region has several economic activities, including agriculture, horticulture, and animal husbandry. The region is also a source of mineral resources, such as copper, lead, and zinc.

·         Challenges: The Trans-Himalayan region faces several challenges, including soil erosion, deforestation, and overgrazing. Climate change has also affected the region’s ecosystem, with increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters like flash floods and landslides. Additionally, the region is vulnerable to conflicts between humans and wildlife, particularly predators like snow leopards that occasionally prey on livestock.

 

Fig 1. BIO GEOGRAPHICAL ZONES OF INDIA

 2.      Himalayan Zone:

The Himalayan Zone is a biogeographical region located in the northern parts of India and consists of high altitude mountain ranges of the Himalayas. Here are some of the key features of the Himalayan Zone:

·         Altitude: The Himalayan Zone covers a wide range of altitudes from 1,500 meters to 7,000 meters above sea level.

·         Climate: The climate in the Himalayan Zone varies from tropical to subarctic. The region experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, and heavy snowfall during winters.

·         Ecosystem: The Himalayan Zone is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including alpine meadows, temperate forests, and sub-tropical forests.

·         Topography: The topography of the Himalayan Zone is characterized by steep slopes, high mountain peaks, and deep valleys.

·         Vegetation: The vegetation in the Himalayan Zone varies according to altitude and includes several species of trees, shrubs, and herbs. Some of the common tree species found in the Himalayan Zone are deodar, pine, and oak.

·         Wildlife: The Himalayan Zone is home to several unique and endangered species of wildlife such as snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and bharal (blue sheep). The region is also an important habitat for several bird species such as pheasants and tragopans.

·         Economic Importance: The Himalayan Zone is a significant source of freshwater for India’s rivers, and its forests are an essential source of timber and non-timber forest products such as medicinal plants and spices. The region is also an important source of hydropower, and the Himalayan rivers are an essential source of irrigation for agriculture.

·         Challenges: The Himalayan Zone faces several challenges, including climate change, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict. The rapid pace of urbanization, infrastructure development, and tourism activities in the region has put significant pressure on the region’s fragile ecosystems and wildlife populations. Additionally, the region is prone to natural disasters such as landslides, floods, and earthquakes.

  

3.      Indian Desert Zone:

The Indian Desert Zone is a region located in the northwestern part of India, covering the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Haryana and Punjab. Here are some of the key features of this zone:

·         Altitude: The Indian Desert Zone is primarily a low-lying region, with an average altitude of around 200-300 meters. However, some areas, such as the Aravalli Range, have higher elevations, reaching up to 1,722 meters.

·         Climate: The Indian Desert Zone is characterized by a hot and arid climate, with very low rainfall. Temperatures can reach up to 50°C in the summer and drop to as low as 0°C in the winter.

·         Ecosystem: The Indian Desert Zone is dominated by a desert ecosystem, characterized by sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and thorny scrub forests. The ecosystem is highly adapted to the harsh desert conditions and supports a unique range of plant and animal species.

·         Topography: The Indian Desert Zone is characterized by a flat or gently undulating terrain, with occasional rocky hills and outcrops. The Thar Desert, located in Rajasthan, is the most prominent feature of this zone.

·         Vegetation: The vegetation in the Indian Desert Zone is highly adapted to the arid conditions and consists of hardy plants such as cacti, thorny shrubs, and xerophytic grasses. The desert areas also have small pockets of forested areas, which are home to a range of flora and fauna.

·         Wildlife: The Indian Desert Zone is home to a range of unique and endangered wildlife species, including the Indian wild ass, desert fox, blackbuck, and chinkara. Several species of migratory birds also visit the region during the winter months.

·         Economic Importance: The Indian Desert Zone has significant economic importance, primarily due to its mineral resources. The region is rich in minerals such as limestone, gypsum, and marble, which are used in the construction industry. The desert areas also have significant reserves of oil, gas, and coal. Additionally, the region is an important source of salt and a major center for handicrafts such as textiles, pottery, and leather goods.

·         Challenges: The Indian Desert Zone faces several challenges, including water scarcity, soil erosion, and desertification. Overgrazing, deforestation, and unsustainable agricultural practices have led to the degradation of the ecosystem, affecting both the wildlife and the local communities who depend on the region’s resources. Climate change is also a significant challenge, with rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns affecting the region’s already fragile ecosystem.

 

4.      Semi-Arid Region:

·         Altitude: The Semi-Arid Region is located in the central and western regions of India, at elevations ranging from 200 to 600 meters above sea level.

·         Climate: The region has a hot and dry climate, with average temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius in the summer and 15 to 25 degrees Celsius in the winter. The region receives low to moderate rainfall, with most of the rainfall occurring during the monsoon season from June to September.

·         Ecosystem: The Semi-Arid Region has a mix of deciduous and thorn forests, with a few patches of grasslands. The region is home to several species of plants and animals adapted to survive in the hot and dry climate.

·         Topography: The region is characterized by flat to gently undulating terrain, with a few hills and plateaus. The Chambal, Betwa, and Ken rivers flow through the region.

·         Vegetation: The vegetation cover in the region includes dry deciduous forests, thorn forests, and grasslands. The forested areas are dominated by trees such as teak, sal, and bamboo, while the open areas have species such as Acacia and Prosopis.

·         Wildlife: The Semi-Arid Region is home to several species of wildlife, including the Indian bustard, blackbuck, chinkara, and Indian wolf. The region is also an important habitat for several species of migratory birds, such as the demoiselle crane and the sarus crane.

·         Economic Importance: The Semi-Arid Region is an important agricultural region, producing significant amounts of cotton, soybean, and wheat. The region is also home to several industries, such as cement, textile, and mining. The Chambal Valley Project, which includes several dams and canals, has been implemented to improve irrigation and water availability in the region.

·         Challenges: The Semi-Arid Region faces several challenges, including land degradation, water scarcity, and soil erosion. The region is prone to droughts and water scarcity during the non-monsoon months, which affects agriculture and livelihoods. Overgrazing, deforestation, and mining activities have also led to the degradation of the natural resources in the region. Climate change and global warming may also exacerbate the challenges faced by the Semi-Arid Region in the future.

 

5.      Western Ghats:

·         Altitude: The Western Ghats is a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India, covering the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. The altitude of the Western Ghats ranges from sea level to over 2,500 meters.

·         Climate: The climate of the Western Ghats varies from tropical wet to semi-arid, depending on the altitude and location. The region receives high rainfall during the monsoon season, which is essential for the survival of the forests and wildlife.

·         Ecosystem: The Western Ghats is home to a unique and diverse range of ecosystems, including tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The forests are dominated by a mix of evergreen, semi-evergreen, and deciduous trees, and are home to several endemic species of plants and animals.

·         Topography: The topography of the Western Ghats is characterized by rugged terrain, steep slopes, and narrow valleys. The region is also home to several rivers and waterfalls, including the famous Jog Falls in Karnataka.

·         Vegetation: The Western Ghats is known for its rich and diverse vegetation cover, with several endemic species of plants. The forests are dominated by trees such as teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and bamboo.

·         Wildlife: The Western Ghats is home to several unique and endangered species of wildlife, including the Nilgiri tahr, lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, and Indian giant flying squirrel. The region is also home to several species of snakes, amphibians, and birds.

·         Economic Importance: The Western Ghats is an important source of livelihood for millions of people, with several important economic activities such as agriculture, timber and bamboo harvesting, and spice and medicinal plant cultivation. The region is also a significant source of hydroelectric power, with several dams and power stations located in the area.

·         Challenges: The Western Ghats face several challenges, including deforestation, habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation due to human activities such as agriculture, mining, and urbanization. Poaching, hunting, and illegal wildlife trade also pose a significant threat to the region’s wildlife. Climate change is another major challenge, with changing rainfall patterns and rising temperatures affecting the survival of the forests and the wildlife that depend on them.

 

 

6.      Deccan Plateau:

The Deccan Plateau is a large region located in south-central India, covering parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. Here are some key characteristics of the Deccan Plateau:

·         Altitude: The Deccan Plateau is a high plateau region, with an average elevation of around 600 meters above sea level.

·         Climate: The climate of the Deccan Plateau varies depending on the location, with a mix of tropical and subtropical climates. The region receives most of its rainfall during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September.

·         Ecosystem: The Deccan Plateau is home to several unique ecosystems, including tropical and deciduous forests, grasslands, and scrublands. The region is also characterized by several important river systems, including the Godavari, Krishna, and Cauvery.

·         Topography: The Deccan Plateau is characterized by a gently sloping terrain, with several rocky outcrops and plateaus.

·         Vegetation: The Deccan Plateau is home to a diverse range of vegetation, including dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and grasslands. The region is also home to several important species of trees, including teak, sandalwood, and rosewood.

·         Wildlife: The Deccan Plateau is home to several important species of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. The region is also home to several important bird species, including the Indian roller and the painted stork.

·         Economic Importance: The Deccan Plateau is an important agricultural region, producing significant amounts of crops such as cotton, sugarcane, and millets. The region is also home to several important industries, including the IT industry in cities such as Bangalore.

·         Challenges: The Deccan Plateau faces several challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water scarcity. The region is also vulnerable to droughts and floods, which can have a significant impact on the local communities and the environment.

 

7.      Gangetic Plain:

The Gangetic Plain is a large alluvial plain that stretches across northern and eastern India, covering an area of about 300,000 square kilometres. Here are some key features of this biogeographical zone:

·         Altitude: The plain is generally low-lying, with an average elevation of around 200 meters above sea level.

·         Climate: The climate of the region is hot and humid, with a monsoon season that lasts from June to September. The temperature can range from as low as 5°C in winter to as high as 45°C in summer.

·         Ecosystem: The plain is dominated by agricultural land, with several major rivers such as the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Yamuna flowing through it. Wetlands, marshes, and floodplains are also important ecosystems in the region.

·         Topography: The plain is relatively flat, with gentle undulations in some areas. However, it is also prone to flooding, which can cause significant damage to crops and infrastructure.

·         Vegetation: The natural vegetation of the plain has largely been replaced by agricultural land, with crops such as wheat, rice, and sugarcane being major contributors to the region’s economy.

·         Wildlife: The Gangetic Plain is home to several species of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, and Gangetic dolphin. However, habitat loss and fragmentation have led to a decline in wildlife populations in the region.

·         Economic Importance: The plain is one of the most fertile regions in the country, and agriculture is the primary economic activity. The region is responsible for a significant portion of India’s wheat, rice, and sugarcane production, and it also has a thriving livestock industry.

·         Challenges: The Gangetic Plain faces several challenges, including soil degradation, water pollution, and climate change. Overuse of groundwater for irrigation has led to depletion of water resources, while industrial and domestic waste has polluted the region’s rivers. Climate change is also a significant threat, with increased frequency and severity of floods and droughts impacting agriculture and infrastructure. Conservation of the region’s biodiversity is also a challenge, with habitat loss and fragmentation posing a threat to several important species.

 

8.      North East Region:

The North East Region of India, also known as the “Seven Sister States” and Sikkim, is a unique and diverse region characterized by its rich biodiversity, unique topography, and cultural heritage. Here are some details about this region:

·         Altitude: The region’s altitude ranges from sea level to over 7,000 meters in the Himalayas.

·         Climate: The climate of the region is influenced by the Himalayas and the Bay of Bengal. The region receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season and experiences a subtropical climate in the lower altitudes.

·         Ecosystem: The North East Region is home to several unique ecosystems, including tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The region also has several important river systems, including the Brahmaputra and the Barak.

·         Topography: The region is characterized by rugged terrain and high mountain ranges, including the Eastern Himalayas.

·         Vegetation: The region has diverse vegetation cover, ranging from tropical and subtropical forests to alpine meadows. The region also has several important plant species, including the Rhododendron and the Himalayan yew.

·         Wildlife: The North East Region is home to several unique and endangered species of wildlife, including the one-horned rhinoceros, the Hoolock gibbon, and the clouded leopard. The region is also home to several important bird species, including the Great Indian Hornbill and the Rufous-necked Hornbill.

·         Economic Importance: The North East Region is an important source of timber, bamboo, tea, and medicinal plants. The region also has significant hydropower potential due to its several important river systems.

·         Challenges: The North East Region faces several challenges related to conservation, including deforestation, poaching, and encroachment of forest land. The region is also prone to natural disasters such as floods and landslides, which can have significant impacts on the region’s biodiversity and people’s livelihoods. Additionally, the region faces challenges related to infrastructure development, with several remote areas lacking basic amenities such as roads and electricity.

 

 

9.      Coastal Region:

The coastal region of India is a narrow strip of land that runs along the Arabian Sea on the west coast and the Bay of Bengal on the east coast. It encompasses the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha.

·         Altitude: The altitude of the coastal region is low, with most areas lying at or near sea level.

·         Climate: The climate of the coastal region varies from tropical to subtropical. The region receives high rainfall, particularly during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September.

·         Ecosystem: The coastal region is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including mangrove forests, wetlands, estuaries, beaches, and dunes. These ecosystems are home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including several species of turtles, dolphins, and whales.

·         Topography: The topography of the coastal region is characterized by low-lying areas, with several rivers and estuaries flowing into the sea.

·         Vegetation: The vegetation of the coastal region includes mangrove forests, tropical evergreen forests, and deciduous forests. The mangrove forests play a crucial role in protecting the coastline from erosion and storms.

·         Wildlife: The coastal region is home to several species of wildlife, including several species of turtles, dolphins, and whales. The region is also an important breeding ground for several species of marine animals.

·         Economic Importance: The coastal region of India is of immense economic importance. The region is home to several major ports, including Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi, which are important for trade and commerce. The region is also an important source of fish and other seafood, which is a major source of protein for people living in the region. Additionally, the coastal region is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year.

·         Challenges: The coastal region of India faces several challenges, including coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and pollution. Industrial development and urbanization have also led to habitat loss and degradation, threatening the region’s biodiversity. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these challenges, leading to increased vulnerability of the coastal region. Conservation efforts are needed to protect the region’s unique ecosystems and wildlife and to promote sustainable economic development in the region.

 

10.  Andaman and Nicobar Islands:

Altitude:

·         The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands located in the Bay of Bengal.

·         The islands are generally low-lying and have a maximum elevation of around 732 meters at Saddle Peak in North Andaman Island.

Climate:

·         The islands have a tropical climate, with high humidity and moderate temperatures.

·         The temperature ranges from 23°C to 31°C throughout the year.

·         The islands receive heavy rainfall, with an average annual rainfall of around 3000mm.

Ecosystem:

·         The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are characterized by a diverse range of ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, mangrove forests, and coral reefs.

·         The islands are home to several endemic species of plants and animals, including the Andaman wild pig, Andaman masked palm civet, and Andaman day gecko.

·         The islands’ marine ecosystem is home to several species of coral, fish, and other marine organisms, including dugongs and sea turtles.

Topography:

·         The islands are characterized by a rugged topography, with several hills and valleys.

·         The islands have several rivers, including the Kalpong, which is the longest river in the Andaman Islands.

Vegetation:

·         The islands are home to a diverse range of vegetation, including tropical rainforests, mangrove forests, and deciduous forests.

·         The islands’ vegetation cover is dominated by the Andaman tropical evergreen forest, which is one of the most biodiverse forests in the world.

·         The islands also have several species of palms, including the Andaman palm and the Nicobar palm.

Wildlife:

·         The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to several unique and endangered species of wildlife.

·         The islands’ forests are home to several species of primates, including the Nicobar long-tailed macaque and the Andaman slow loris.

·         The islands’ marine ecosystem is home to several species of marine mammals, including dugongs and whales.

Economic Importance:

·         The islands are an important source of fish and other seafood for the region.

·         The islands also have several potential sources of mineral resources, including nickel, copper, and chromium.

·         The islands’ tourism industry is a significant contributor to the local economy.

Challenges:

·         The islands face several challenges, including overfishing, deforestation, and pollution.

·         The islands’ unique biodiversity is threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation due to human activities.

·         The islands’ indigenous populations also face several challenges, including marginalization and loss of traditional livelihoods.

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