Why this matters now
Biodiversity is heavily tested — its levels, value, threats and the in-situ vs ex-situ conservation distinction — and links to hotspots, protected areas and conservation projects.
Levels of biodiversity
Biodiversity is studied at three levels: genetic (variation within a species), species (variety of species in an area) and ecosystem (variety of habitats and ecological processes). India is one of the world’s mega-diverse countries.
Importance and threats
Biodiversity provides ecosystem services — food, medicines, pollination, clean air and water, climate regulation — and has cultural and intrinsic value. Major threats are habitat loss and fragmentation, invasive alien species, pollution, over-exploitation and climate change (the “HIPPO” drivers).
Conservation — in-situ and ex-situ
| Type | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| In-situ | Conservation in natural habitat | National parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves |
| Ex-situ | Conservation outside natural habitat | Zoos, botanical gardens, gene/seed banks, captive breeding |
Legal framework
India’s Biological Diversity Act, 2002 (with the National Biodiversity Authority) governs the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and fair sharing of benefits, in line with the international Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
UPSC angle
Know the three levels (genetic/species/ecosystem), the HIPPO threats, and the in-situ (parks/sanctuaries/biosphere reserves) vs ex-situ (zoos/gene banks) distinction. Biological Diversity Act 2002 + NBA + CBD.
Frequently asked questions
What are the levels of biodiversity?
Genetic (within a species), species (variety of species) and ecosystem (variety of habitats and processes).
What is the difference between in-situ and ex-situ conservation?
In-situ conserves species in their natural habitat (parks, sanctuaries); ex-situ conserves them outside it (zoos, gene banks, botanical gardens).
What are the main threats to biodiversity?
Habitat loss, invasive species, pollution, over-exploitation and climate change (the “HIPPO” drivers).
Which law governs biodiversity in India?
The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, implemented through the National Biodiversity Authority.