Question

In a biosphere reserve, tourism is allowed in which of the following zones ?

I. Transition zone
II. Buffer zone
III. Core zone

• A. I, II and III
• B. I and II
• C. II and III
• D. I and III

Answer 1

The correct option is B I and II

Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability amongst living organisms and ecosystems in a given area.

Biosphere reserves are protected areas that allow the conservation of biotic (living) resources like plants, animals, etc., in their natural environment through the protection of the entire ecosystem. These are considered as strategies for in situ (on site) conservation of biodiversity.

Biosphere reserves are multipurpose protected areas of habitat, in which human beings are an integral part of the system. It is a forest area which is involved with protection and conservation of wildlife and also allows human activities under a regulated framework. Biosphere reserves generally cover a large area to maintain natural populations of a large size.

A biosphere reserve is divided into 3 main zones as follows :

• Core zone - It is the minimally disturbed central zone of the biosphere reserve, where no human activity is allowed. This zone is strictly restricted to research activities.
• Buffer zone - This zone lies just outside the core zone and allows limited human activities for educational and research purposes. It also allows limited human interference for restoration of damaged ecosystems, limited tourism, fishing, grazing, etc.
• Transition zone or area of cooperation - It is the outermost part of the biosphere reserve which involves active cooperation between forest management and the public. It includes tribal settlements, cultivated lands, managed forests and areas for intensive tourism, recreation, education and research. Activities such as timber collection, medicine collection and cattle grazing are allowed in the transition zone.

Thus, option b is the correct answer.