Correct option is C
The correct answer is (c) Western Ghats
The Western Ghats in India are one of the richest areas in terms of biodiversity. This region, also known as the Sahyadri Mountains, is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region. It is recognized as one of the eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity in the world.
- The Western Ghats are home to over 7,402 species of flowering plants, 139 mammal species, 508 bird species, and 179 amphibian species.
- This region has a variety of ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, deciduous forests, and mountain ecosystems, contributing to its rich biodiversity.
- The Western Ghats are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their ecological importance.
- Some of the iconic species found in the Western Ghats include the Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, and Western Ghats Frog.
- The region plays a crucial role in the water cycle for much of South India and acts as a barrier for the monsoon winds.
- Eastern Ghats : The Eastern Ghats also support biodiversity.
- Thar Desert : The Thar Desert has a unique ecosystem but is relatively poor in biodiversity compared to the Western Ghats.
- Bay of Bengal : While the Bay of Bengal supports marine biodiversity.