Correct option is A
The correct answer is: 1. A, B and C
Explanation:
The Western Ghats of India are considered one of the global biodiversity hotspots due to several important factors. Let’s analyze the given options:
A. High species richness: The Western Ghats are home to a large number of species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. The region is known for its high species richness, which is one of the key criteria for being a biodiversity hotspot.
B. High endemism: The Western Ghats have a significant amount of endemism, meaning that many species found here are unique to the region. This contributes to its designation as a biodiversity hotspot.
C. Habitat loss: Habitat loss, due to deforestation, is a serious issue in the Western Ghats. However, this factor does not directly contribute to the designation of a hotspot. In fact, it poses a threat to biodiversity in the region. Despite this, the rich biodiversity of the area, including its high species richness and endemism, helps qualify it as a hotspot.
D. Large altitudinal range: The Western Ghats have a large altitudinal range, which influences the different ecosystems and habitats found at various elevations. This contributes to the region’s biodiversity, but it's not one of the key reasons the Western Ghats are considered a biodiversity hotspot.
Information Booster:
High species richness: The Western Ghats are home to over 7,000 species of flowering plants, and more than 200 species of birds, making it a treasure trove for biodiversity.
High endemism: A significant percentage of species in the Western Ghats are found nowhere else on Earth, such as the Lion-tailed Macaque and the Nilgiri Tahr.
Habitat loss: The ongoing deforestation and habitat degradation in the Western Ghats threaten many species, but the overall biodiversity of the region is still impressive.
