Chapter 1: Diversity in Living World Notes pdf download for Class 11th Zoology based on the latest syllabus of CBSE
Introduction
The diversity in the living world refers to the variety of living organisms on Earth, ranging from the smallest microorganisms to the largest animals. The classification of living organisms into different groups allows scientists to study their similarities and differences, thereby understanding the complexity of life forms.
1.1 Animal Kingdom
The Animal Kingdom is one of the five kingdoms in biological classification. It includes all multicellular, eukaryotic organisms that are heterotrophic, meaning they rely on other organisms for food. The Animal Kingdom is further divided into various phyla, classes, orders, families, genera, and species based on characteristics such as body structure, function, and reproduction.
1.1.1 General Characters and Classification of Animals
- Non-Chordates: These are animals that do not have a notochord, a cartilaginous skeletal rod supporting the body. Non-chordates include various phyla such as:
- Porifera: Sponges, which are simple, non-motile animals with porous bodies.
- Cnidaria: Jellyfish and corals, which have a simple digestive cavity.
- Platyhelminthes: Flatworms, which are bilaterally symmetrical and lack a body cavity.
- Nematoda: Roundworms, which are cylindrical and possess a complete digestive tract.
- Annelida: Segmented worms like earthworms, characterized by their segmented bodies.
- Arthropoda: The largest phylum, including insects, arachnids, and crustaceans, characterized by exoskeletons and jointed appendages.
- Mollusca: Soft-bodied animals like snails and octopuses, usually with a hard shell.
- Echinodermata: Marine animals like starfish and sea urchins, which have a radial symmetry and a water vascular system.
- Chordates: These are animals with a notochord at some stage in their development. The Chordata phylum is further divided into subphyla and classes, such as:
- Urochordata: Also known as tunicates, these are marine animals with a sac-like body structure.
- Cephalochordata: Known as lancelets, they have a fish-like body and retain the notochord throughout life.
- Vertebrata: This subphylum includes animals with a vertebral column or backbone, and is further classified into classes such as:
- Pisces (Fish): Aquatic animals with gills, fins, and scales.
- Amphibia: Cold-blooded animals that can live both in water and on land, like frogs and salamanders.
- Reptilia: Cold-blooded, scaly animals like lizards, snakes, and turtles.
- Aves (Birds): Warm-blooded animals with feathers, wings, and beaks.
- Mammalia: Warm-blooded animals with hair or fur, and females possess mammary glands for feeding their young.
1.2 National Parks with Special Reference to Dachigam, Kishtwar, Salim Ali, Kazinag, and Hemis
National parks are protected areas established to conserve wildlife and biodiversity. They provide a safe habitat for animals and plants, preserving the natural ecosystem. The following are some notable national parks with special references:
- Dachigam National Park: Located in Jammu and Kashmir, India, it is known for its population of the endangered Hangul (Kashmir stag).
- Kishtwar National Park: Also in Jammu and Kashmir, this park is home to the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and other rare species.
- Salim Ali National Park: Named after the famous ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, this park is located in Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir, and is known for its diverse avian population.
- Kazinag National Park: Situated in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, it is rich in biodiversity, especially the Markhor (a type of wild goat).
- Hemis National Park: The largest national park in India, located in Ladakh, it is famous for its population of snow leopards and Tibetan wolves.
1.3 Concept of Sanctuaries and Biosphere Reserves
- Sanctuaries: Wildlife sanctuaries are areas where animals are protected from hunting, poaching, or habitat destruction. They provide a safe environment for animals to live and reproduce. Unlike national parks, limited human activities are allowed in sanctuaries.
- Biosphere Reserves: Biosphere reserves are regions that combine the conservation of biodiversity with sustainable use of natural resources. They include core areas (no human activity), buffer zones (limited human activity), and transition zones (sustainable economic activities).
Examples:
- Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve: Located in the Western Ghats, it is one of the most significant biosphere reserves in India, known for its rich flora and fauna.
- Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is famous for its mangrove forests and the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Summary
The first chapter introduces the vast diversity of life in the animal kingdom, focusing on classification, conservation, and the importance of protected areas. It highlights the need to understand and preserve biodiversity through national parks, sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves.
These notes provide a basic overview of the topics covered in Chapter 1. They can be expanded further with more details as per the requirement.
