Answer the following questions briefly.
(i) Define an ecosystem.
(ii) What factors are responsible for the distribution of plants and animals in India?
(iii) What is a bio-reserve? Give two examples.
(iv) Name two animals having habitat in tropical and montane type of vegetation.
(i) Ecosystem is a system of interdependence comprising the physical environment and the organisms living therein.
(ii) Temperature, humidity, precipitation, land and soil are the factors responsible for the distribution of plants in India. The nature of plants in an area, to a large extent, determines the animal life of that area.
(iii) A bio-reserve is a conserved ecosystem. It is managed in such a way that not only is its biodiversity preserved but also its resources are used in a sustainable manner for the benefit of the local communities. Examples: The Nilgiris, Sunderbans
(iv) Tropical animals − Tiger, elephant
Montane animals − Snow leopard, spotted deer