Given below are two statements - one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): There is a general pattern of increase in biodiversity from the equator to the poles.
Reason (R): Due to high levels of energy received in the tropics, higher is the net primary production, which in turn supports a large number of individuals, leading to high biodiversity.
Options:

Correct option is D

Explanation:
Assertion (A) is false because the general pattern of biodiversity actually shows that biodiversity is highest at the equator and tends to decrease as one moves towards the poles, not the other way around. In contrast, Reason (R) is true; tropical regions do receive higher levels of energy, which results in higher net primary production, supporting a larger number of individuals and thus higher biodiversity in those regions. This reasoning is part of the explanation for why equatorial regions tend to be more biodiverse than polar regions, highlighting the complexity of ecological relationships.
Information Booster:
· Biodiversity Gradient: The trend where species diversity is greater at lower latitudes (near the equator) and decreases towards the poles.
· Energy Availability: Regions receiving more sunlight and warmth generally have higher rates of photosynthesis, which increases the energy available for ecosystems.
· Tropical Ecosystems: These areas often feature diverse habitats, stable climates, and evolutionary histories that promote species richness.
· Impact of Latitude: Latitude influences climate, habitat diversity, and ecological interactions that affect biodiversity.
· Climate Change Effects: Changes in climate can disproportionately impact polar regions, often leading to a faster decline in biodiversity compared to tropical areas.
· Human Impact: Habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change threaten biodiversity worldwide, but the effects can vary significantly between equatorial and polar ecosystems.
Additional Information:
· Ecosystem Functionality: Higher biodiversity contributes to ecosystem stability and resilience, aiding in recovery from environmental changes.
· Species Interactions: Complex interactions between species in tropical regions foster rich ecological webs that enhance biodiversity.
· Conservation Strategies: Understanding these patterns is crucial for effective conservation efforts aimed at preserving biodiversity in both tropical and polar ecosystems.
· Biodiversity Hotspots: Identifying and prioritizing areas with high biodiversity for conservation can help in maintaining global ecological health.