Question

Term Biodiversity Hotspot was given by

• A. Norman Myers (1988)
• B. John Ray (1686)
• C. A.D. Imms (1946)
• D. G.W. Carpenter (1954)

Hint:

Remember the "two-fold" criteria for hotspots: High Endemism ($>$ 1500 plant species) and High Threat ($>$ 70% habitat loss). This term was created to prioritize global conservation spending.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The concept of a "Biodiversity Hotspot" is a fundamental principle in conservation biology used to identify regions that are both extremely rich in endemic species and under significant threat from human activities.
A region must meet two strict criteria to be qualified as a hotspot: it must contain at least 1,500 species of vascular plants ($>$ 0.5% of the world's total) as endemics, and it has to have lost at least 70% of its original native vegetation.
Detailed Explanation:
The term was officially coined and defined by British ecologist Norman Myers in 1988.
His seminal work highlighted that a small number of areas on the planet hold a disproportionately large share of the world's biodiversity.
Focusing on these areas allows conservationists to protect the greatest number of species with the most efficient use of resources.
Originally, Myers identified 10 hotspots, but the list has since been expanded through rigorous scientific assessment by organizations like Conservation International.
As of today, there are 36 recognized biodiversity hotspots globally, covering only about 2.4% of Earth's land surface but supporting more than half of the world’s plant species as endemics.
In India, four major hotspots are recognized: The Himalayas, the Western Ghats, the Indo-Burma region, and the Sundaland (including the Nicobar Islands).
John Ray is known for his work on taxonomy and the species concept in the 17th century.
A.D. Imms was a prominent entomologist famous for his "General Textbook of Entomology."
G.W. Carpenter was also an entomologist noted for his work on mimetic butterflies and evolution.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The term "Biodiversity Hotspot" was proposed by Norman Myers in 1988.