India-Flora and Fauna

The vegetation and wild life of a country are called flora and fauna respectively.

In India there are about 47,000 plant species and 81,000 animal species.

Some facts to Know

Among the larger animals in India, 79 species of mammals, 44 of birds, 15 of reptiles and 3 of amphibians are threatened.

Nearly 1500 plant species are considered endagered.

The forest cover of India is estimated at 637,293 sq.kms or 19.39% which is far below the normal requirement of 33%.

Some Facts About Species in India Endangered Species:-These are in danger

of extinction such as-

Black Buck-

Crocodile-

Ind.Rhino

Lion-

Vulnerable Species

Blue Sheep

Asiatic Elephant

Gangetic Dolphin

Rare Species

Bear

Wild Asiatic Buffalo

Desert Fox

Hornbill

Extinct Species

Asiatic Cheetah

Pink Head Duck

Causes of Depletion of Forests

Large scale development projects.

Mining

Grazing and fuelwood collection.

Habitat destruction, huntomg ,poaching,over –exploitation,environmental pollution and forest fires have led to decline of India’s biodiversity.

Some Facts

Half of India’s Natural forests are gone.

One-third of its wetlands drained out.

7o% of its surface waterbodies are polluted.

40% of its mangrooves wiped out.

Conservation of Forests and WildLife in India.

Conservation preserves ecological diversity and our life support systems-water,air soil.

It also preserves genetic diversity of plant and animals.

Measures:- 1.The Indian wildlife (protection) Act 1972.

2. Hunting and poaching banned.

3.Establishment of National parks and .WL sanctuaries.

4. Several projects for specific animals like-Project Tiger,Project Rhino,kashmir stag, crocodiles, asiatic lion..

Community and Conservation In Sariskha Tiger reserve(RAJ) villagers have

fought against mining by citing wildlife protection act.

The inhabitants of 5 villages in Alwar district of Rajasthan have declared 1200 hectares of forest as Bhairodev Dakar son churi declared their own set of rules and regulations.

Famous movements likeChipko movement , Beej bachao Andolan(Tehri) and Navadanya are some examples.