Question

Which among the following statements regarding the biodiversity of India are incorrect?

I. It contributes around 8.1 % to the world’s species diversity
II. It is one of the 12 mega diversity countries of the world
III. India is known to be the home to 45000 different species of animals

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

Answer 1

The correct option is C Only III

The available records of all the described species existing on earth gives us the inventory of the distribution of species belonging to different taxonomic groups across the world.

India is known to cover only 2.4% of the total landmass of the world but its contribution to global species diversity is estimated to be around 8.1 %.

This indicates that out of every 100 species found across the world, approximately 8 species are found in India alone, in spite of the fact that it covers a very small part of the world’s total land area. This is the reason India is considered to be one of the 12 mega diversity countries of the world.

Thus, statements I and II are correct.

The total number of animal species in India is estimated to be around 90000 and that of plant species is around 45000.

Thus, statement III is incorrect.