Correct option is B
A biodiversity hotspot is a region that meets two specific criteria established by Conservation International to be designated as a "hotspot." These criteria are:
Endemism Criterion: The region must contain at least 1500 species of endemic vascular plants. This means that the region must have a large number of plant species that are found nowhere else in the world.
Threat Criterion: The region must have lost at least 70% of its original natural vegetation. This indicates that the area has been severely impacted by human activity or environmental degradation, making it critical for conservation efforts.
Explanation of each Statement:
Statement A: Contains at least 1500 species of endemic animals
This statement is incorrect for a biodiversity hotspot. While the presence of endemic animals is important, the primary criterion for a hotspot is the presence of endemic vascular plants (not animals). The 1500 species of endemic vascular plants is the correct criterion for a biodiversity hotspot, not endemic animals.Statement B: Contains at least 1500 species of endemic vascular plants
This statement is correct. As per the criteria for a biodiversity hotspot, a region must have at least 1500 species of endemic vascular plants. This is one of the key defining features of a biodiversity hotspot.Statement C: Has lost 70% of its original natural vegetation
This statement is correct. A region must have lost at least 70% of its original natural vegetation to be considered a biodiversity hotspot. This significant loss indicates the region is under great environmental stress, which is a key characteristic of hotspots.Statement D: Has lost 30% of its original natural vegetation
This statement is incorrect. The criterion for a biodiversity hotspot is that the region must have lost at least 70% of its original natural vegetation, not just 30%. Losing 30% does not qualify a region as a hotspot by the official definition.
