NCERT Explained: Class VIII Science, Chapter 7 - Conservation of Plants and Animals

Introduction to the Topic

Nature is a complex and beautiful web of life where every organism, from the smallest insect to the largest mammal, plays a vital role. In our journey through NCERT Class VIII Science, Chapter 7, we explore the critical theme of Conservation of Plants and Animals. As human civilization progresses, we often overlook the impact our actions have on the natural world. This chapter is designed to make students aware of the biological diversity that surrounds us and the urgent need to protect it for future generations.

Conservation is not just about saving a single tree or a particular animal; it is about maintaining the balance of our entire ecosystem. When we talk about conservation, we are discussing the survival of the human race itself. If the forests disappear and the animals vanish, the environment that supports us will eventually collapse. This post will break down the complex concepts of biodiversity, the threats posed by deforestation, and the various governmental and non-governmental measures taken to safeguard our green heritage.

Key Concepts Explained

1. Deforestation and Its Causes

Deforestation means clearing of forests and using that land for other purposes. The trees in the forest are cut for several reasons, which can be categorized into man-made and natural causes.

• Man-made Causes: Procuring land for cultivation, building houses and factories, making furniture, or using wood as fuel.
• Natural Causes: Forest fires and severe droughts can also lead to the destruction of vast forest areas.

The consequences of deforestation are devastating. It increases the temperature and pollution level on earth. It increases the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, leading to global warming. As the concentration of carbon dioxide increases, it traps the heat rays reflected by the earth, causing an increase in the Earth's temperature. This disturbs the water cycle and may reduce rainfall, which could lead to droughts.

2. Desertification

Deforestation is a major cause of change in soil properties. Fewer trees result in more soil erosion. Removal of the top layer of the soil exposes the lower, hard, and rocky layers. This soil has less humus and is less fertile. Gradually, the fertile land gets converted into deserts. This process is called desertification. Additionally, forests act as a natural sponge, absorbing rainwater. Without them, the water-holding capacity of the soil decreases, leading to frequent floods.

3. Biosphere and Biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to the variety of organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) existing on the earth, their interrelationships, and their relationship with the environment. The biosphere is that part of the earth in which living organisms exist or which supports life.

To protect our flora and fauna and their habitats, protected areas called Sanctuaries, National Parks, and Biosphere Reserves have been earmarked. Planting, grazing, felling trees, hunting, and poaching are strictly prohibited in these areas.

4. Biosphere Reserves

A Biosphere Reserve is a large area of protected land for the conservation of wildlife, plant and animal resources, and the traditional life of the tribals living in the area. For example, the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve consists of one national park named Satpura and two wildlife sanctuaries named Bori and Pachmarhi. These reserves help to maintain the biodiversity and culture of that area.

5. Flora and Fauna

The plants and animals found in a particular area are termed as the flora and fauna of that area, respectively. For example, in the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, the flora includes sal, teak, mango, jamun, silver ferns, and arjun. The fauna includes chinkara, blue-bull, barking deer, cheetal, leopard, wild dog, and wolf.

6. Endemic Species

Endemic species are those species of plants and animals which are found exclusively in a particular area. They are not naturally found anywhere else. A particular type of animal or plant may be endemic to a zone, a state, or a country. For example, sal and wild mango are endemic flora of the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve. Animals like the Bison, Indian giant squirrel, and flying squirrel are endemic fauna of this area. The destruction of their habitat, increasing population, and introduction of new species may affect the natural habitat of endemic species and endanger their existence.

7. Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks

Wildlife Sanctuaries provide protection and suitable living conditions to wild animals. Unlike zoos, where animals are kept in captivity, sanctuaries allow animals to live in their natural habitat. However, even these protected areas are not always safe because people living in the neighborhood encroach upon them and destroy them.

National Parks are areas reserved for wildlife where they can freely use the habitats and natural resources. Satpura National Park is the first Reserve Forest of India. Here, the finest Indian teak is found. Interestingly, rock shelters are also found inside Satpura National Park, which are evidence of prehistoric human life in these jungles.

8. Red Data Book

The Red Data Book is the source book which keeps a record of all the endangered animals and plants. There are different Red Data Books for plants, animals, and other species. This book helps scientists and conservationists identify which species are at the highest risk of extinction and require immediate protection.

9. Migration

Migration is the phenomenon of movement of a species from its own habitat to some other habitat for a particular time period every year for a specific purpose like breeding or to escape cold, inhospitable weather. Migratory birds fly to far away areas because of climatic changes.

10. Recycling Paper and Reforestation

To save our forests, we must look at sustainable practices. It takes 17 full-grown trees to make one tonne of paper. Therefore, we should save paper. Paper can be recycled five to seven times for use. By saving paper, we not only save trees but also save energy and water needed for manufacturing paper.

Reforestation is the restocking of destroyed forests by planting new trees. The planted trees should generally be of the same species which were found in that forest. We should plant at least as many trees as we cut. Reforestation can take place naturally if the deforested area is left undisturbed. In natural reforestation, there is no role of human beings.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth; its conservation is vital for ecological balance.
• Deforestation leads to global warming, soil erosion, and desertification.
• Protected Areas: Biosphere reserves, national parks, and sanctuaries are essential for protecting species.
• Endemic Species: Organisms unique to a specific geographic location.
• Endangered Species: Animals whose numbers are diminishing to a level that they might face extinction.
• Red Data Book: A global record of endangered species.
• Actionable Steps: Recycling paper and practicing reforestation are key ways individuals can help conserve nature.