With reference 10 biodiversity, which of the following statements is/are correct ? 1. Species richness and high degree of endemism arc important criteria for identifying biodiversity hot spots. 2. Species diversity is highest in the tropics and decreases down the poles. 3. Biodiversity conservation may be in situ as well as ex situ. Select the correct answer using the code given below :

All three statements are correct. Biodiversity hotspots are defined by Norman Myers based on specific criteria: high species richness, a high degree of endemism (at least 1,500 endemic vascular plant species), and a significant threat level (loss of at least 70% of primary vegetation) [4]. Regarding global patterns, a well-established latitudinal diversity gradient exists where species richness is highest in the tropical regions and systematically decreases as one moves toward the poles [5]. Finally, biodiversity conservation is categorized into two main strategies: in situ conservation, which involves protecting species within their natural habitats (e.g., national parks, biosphere reserves), and ex situ conservation, which involves protecting species outside their natural habitats (e.g., zoos, botanical gardens, seed banks) [6]. These methods are often used in combination to ensure comprehensive preservation of genetic and species diversity.

Sources

1. [1] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 4: BIODIVERSITY > BIodIversIty Hotspots. > p. 5
2. [2] FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 14: Biodiversity and Conservation > Species Diversity > p. 116
3. [4] https://smkvbastar.ac.in/Admin/Files/StudyMaterial/09132023014505_Class%20Notes%20on%20Biodiversity%202022.pdf
4. [5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2042519/
5. [6] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 4: BIODIVERSITY > In-situ Conservation > p. 30