What is a Biodiversity Hotspot? 

A Biodiversity Hotspot refers to a region that is both rich in biodiversity and at significant risk of destruction. These areas are essential for conservation because they are home to a large number of species found only in that specific region, making them critical for preserving global biodiversity. 

Evolution of the Concept of Biodiversity Hotspots 

• 1988: The concept of biodiversity hotspots was first proposed by Norman Myers. 
• 1989: Conservation International (CI) adopted this concept as its guiding principle. 
• 1999: CI conducted a global evaluation to define specific criteria for identifying biodiversity hotspots. 

Criteria for a Biodiversity Hotspot 

For a region to be recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, it must meet two strict conditions: 

1. Endemism: The region must have at least 1,500 plant species that are found nowhere else on Earth. This indicates a high level of uniqueness. 
2. Threat Level: The region must have lost at least 70% of its original natural vegetation. This means only 30% or less of its original habitat remains intact. 

Biodiversity Hotspots in the World 

• Global Distribution: There are 36 biodiversity hotspots worldwide. 
• Location: Most of these hotspots are found in tropical forests. 
• Land Area: They cover only 2.3% of Earth’s land surface but are home to about 50% of the world's endemic plant species and 43% of all terrestrial vertebrates. 

Map of the Biodiversity Hotspots in the World 

Biodiversity Hotspots in India 

India has 4 biodiversity hotspots 

• Eastern Himalayas: Encompasses parts of Nepal, Bhutan, and northeastern India. It hosts species like the red panda and snow leopard. 
• Western Ghats & Sri Lanka: Located along the western coast, this region is known for its rich flora and fauna, including the Nilgiri Tahr and Lion-tailed Macaque. 
• Indo-Burma: This hotspot spans northeast India, Myanmar, and parts of Southeast Asia. It is rich in species like amphibians, birds, and reptiles. 
• Sundaland: Includes the Nicobar Islands and is recognized for its marine biodiversity and unique terrestrial species.