Introduction
A biodiversity hotspot is a biogeographic region that is both rich in biodiversity and threatened by human activities. These regions contain a high number of endemic species—species found nowhere else on Earth. To qualify as a hotspot, a region must have at least 1,500 species of vascular plants as endemics and must have lost at least 70% of its original vegetation.
India as a Mega Biodiversity Hotspot
India is recognized as a mega biodiversity country due to its wide range of climate, topography, and ecosystems. It houses four out of the world’s 36 biodiversity hotspots:
- The Himalayas
- The Western Ghats
- The Indo-Burma region
- The Sundaland (Nicobar Islands)
These regions support thousands of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic and rare. For instance, the Western Ghats alone host over 7,400 species of plants, birds, mammals, and amphibians, with a high rate of endemism.
India’s rich cultural traditions that include sacred groves, as well as varied agro-biodiversity in crops and livestock, also contribute to its biodiversity. However, factors like deforestation, urbanization, and pollution threaten these rich ecosystems, necessitating urgent conservation efforts.
Conclusion
India’s biological wealth and endemism, combined with human-induced threats, make it a globally significant biodiversity hotspot. Conserving these regions is critical for ecological stability and human well-being.