Question

The image below displays the pattern of distribution of mammalian species. Explain the pattern seen in the image.

• A. Equatorial gradient of biodiversity
• B. There are greater number of mammals in the Arctic Tundra
• C. Africa is rich in vascular plants
• D. Latitudinal gradient of biodiversity

Answer 1

The correct option is D Latitudinal gradient of biodiversity

Biodiversity exhibits a latitudinal gradient, that is, species richness decreases as you move away from the equator to the poles. Species richness is defined as the number of species per unit area. There is a greater number of mammalian species near the equator, and this reduces as we move away to the poles. However, there are some exceptions. The Saharan desert for instance, lies nearer to the equator than the tropical forests of India and yet, shows comparatively very low biodiversity. Africa does have highly diverse species of vascular plants, but this map is a representation of the mammalian species distribution.