Question

A successful forest conservation strategy should involve

• A. Protection of animals at the highest trophic level
• B. Protection of only consumers
• C. Protection of only herbivores
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

All of the above

Living components are classified depending on their function in the ecosystem. They are classified as primary producers, herbivores, carnivores and omnivores. Each of this living component constitutes a trophic level. The primary producers are present at the bottom of the food pyramid which is the first trophic level. Herbivores are present at the second trophic level and carnivores are present at highest trophic level. All the components of the ecosystem are connected to each other through food chain.
Primary producers are plants which perform photosynthesis using CO${}_2$ and sunlight to produce carbohydrates and oxygen.
Herbivores are animals which consume plants for their energy derivation. Example- deer, caterpillar, etc.
Carnivores are animals which feed on herbivores. Example- lion, tiger, etc.
Omnivores are animals which feed on other animals as well as plants. Example- human being.
If forest ecosystem is to be conserved then the strategy should involve in giving protection to all living (biological) and non-living (physical) components.
If protection is given to only some components of ecosystem then there will be an imbalance.

So, the correct answer is 'All of the above'