Conservation of Plants and Animals Important Questions class 8

NCERT Solutions for Class 8th Science Chapter 3 Conservation of Plants and Animals Questions and answers based on latest syllabus of CBSE and JKBOSE

Conservation of Plants and Animals

Exercises

1. Fill in the blanks:

1. (a) A place where animals are protected in their natural habitat is called wildlife sanctuary.
2. (b) Species found only in a particular area is known as endemic species.
3. (c) Migratory birds fly to far away places because of climatic changes.

2. Differentiate between the following:

(a) Wildlife sanctuary and biosphere reserve:

• Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected area where wild animals are safe from hunting and habitat destruction. Examples include Kaziranga and Ranthambore.
• Biosphere Reserve: A larger area that includes one or more national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. It aims at conservation of biodiversity and involves local communities. Examples include Nilgiri and Sunderbans.

(b) Zoo and wildlife sanctuary:

• Zoo: A facility where animals are kept in enclosures for public viewing, education, and conservation purposes.
• Wildlife Sanctuary: A natural habitat where animals are protected and can roam freely.

(c) Endangered and extinct species:

• Endangered Species: Species that are at risk of extinction in the near future if protective measures are not taken. Examples include the Bengal tiger and the Asian elephant.
• Extinct Species: Species that no longer exist anywhere on Earth. Examples include the dodo and the passenger pigeon.

(d) Flora and fauna:

• Flora: The plant life found in a particular region or habitat.
• Fauna: The animal life found in a particular region or habitat.

3. Discuss the effects of deforestation on the following:

(a) Wild animals:

• Loss of habitat leading to decline in population.
• Increased human-wildlife conflicts.

(b) Environment:

• Increased carbon dioxide levels leading to global warming.
• Disruption of water cycles and loss of biodiversity.

(c) Villages (Rural areas):

• Reduced availability of forest products like firewood and medicinal plants.
• Increased soil erosion affecting agriculture.

(d) Cities (Urban areas):

• Increased pollution and temperature (urban heat island effect).
• Reduced air quality and water supply issues.

(e) Earth:

• Loss of biodiversity.
• Altered climatic conditions affecting ecosystems globally.

(f) The next generation:

• Reduced natural resources and biodiversity.
• Inherited environmental problems and challenges.

4. What will happen if:

(a) we go on cutting trees:

• Deforestation leading to habitat loss, climate change, and soil erosion.

(b) the habitat of an animal is disturbed:

• Animals may migrate, become endangered, or face extinction.

(c) the top layer of soil is exposed:

• Soil erosion leading to loss of fertile land and reduced agricultural productivity.

5. Answer in brief:

(a) Why should we conserve biodiversity?

• To maintain ecological balance and ensure the survival of various species. Biodiversity provides ecosystem services, genetic resources, and cultural value.

(b) Protected forests are also not completely safe for wild animals. Why?

• Illegal activities such as poaching, logging, and encroachment by humans still pose threats.

(c) Some tribals depend on the jungle. How?

• They rely on forests for food, shelter, medicine, and livelihood through activities like hunting, gathering, and shifting cultivation.

(d) What are the causes and consequences of deforestation?

• Causes: Agriculture expansion, logging, infrastructure development, and mining.
• Consequences: Habitat loss, climate change, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity.

(e) What is Red Data Book?

• A book that lists endangered and extinct species and provides information on their conservation status.

(f) What do you understand by the term migration?

• The seasonal movement of animals from one place to another in search of favorable conditions such as food, breeding sites, and climate.

6. In order to meet the ever-increasing demand in factories and for shelter, trees are being continually cut. Is it justified to cut trees for such projects? Discuss and prepare a brief report.

Answer: Cutting trees for industrial and housing needs should be balanced with sustainable practices. While development is necessary, it should not come at the cost of environmental degradation. Measures like afforestation, using alternative materials, and implementing strict regulations can help mitigate the impact.

7. How can you contribute to the maintenance of green wealth of your locality? Make a list of actions to be taken by you.

Answer:

1. Plant and care for trees.
2. Promote recycling and reduce waste.
3. Participate in local clean-up drives.
4. Educate others about the importance of conservation.
5. Use eco-friendly products and practices.

8. Explain how deforestation leads to reduced rainfall.

Answer: Deforestation reduces the number of trees that transpire water into the atmosphere, leading to decreased cloud formation and ultimately reduced rainfall.

9. Find out the information about the national parks in your state. Identify and show their location on the outline map of India.

Answer: This activity involves researching and marking the locations of national parks in the student’s state on a map of India.

10. Why should paper be saved? Prepare a list of ways by which you can save paper.

Answer:

• Saving paper reduces deforestation, conserves energy, and reduces landfill waste.
• Ways to save paper:

1. Use both sides of the paper.
2. Go digital for note-taking and communication.
3. Recycle used paper.
4. Avoid unnecessary printing.

11. Complete the word puzzle:

Down:

1. Species on the verge of extinction. (Endangered)
2. A book carrying information about endangered species. (Red Data Book)
3. Consequence of deforestation. (Erosion)

Across:

1. Species which have vanished. (Extinct)
2. Species found only in a particular habitat. (Endemic)
3. Variety of plants, animals and microorganisms found in an area. (Biodiversity)

Extended Learning — Activities and Projects

1. Plant at least five different plants in your locality during this academic year and ensure their maintenance till they grow.
2. Prepare a report on the biodiversity of a local forest or natural area.