Biodiversity Hotspots and Biosphere Reserves

Biodiversity hotspots and biosphere reserves represent the core zones of ecological richness and environmental resilience in India. They reflect areas with high species endemism, unique evolutionary history, and critical conservation value under growing anthropogenic pressures. India, as a megadiverse country, harbours four global biodiversity hotspots and 18 biosphere reserves, forming a vital component of global ecological security.

Biodiversity Hotspots: Concept and Criteria

• The term “biodiversity hotspot” was introduced by Norman Myers (1988) to identify biologically rich regions under threat.
• To qualify as a hotspot, an area must:
  • Contain at least 1,500 endemic vascular plant species, and
  • Have lost at least 70% of its ....