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Question #46068
The Question
A biodiversity hotspot characterized by high endemism undergoes severe habitat fragmentation. Ecologists observe that the total decline in species richness significantly exceeds the primary loss predicted solely by the reduction in area (Species-Area Relationship, S = cA^z). Which of the following statements regarding the ecological dynamics of this crisis is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
The amplified biodiversity loss is largely driven by co-extinctions, where the removal of a specialized endemic plant inevitably leads to the extinction of its obligate insect pollinators.
- B.
Habitat fragmentation increases the 'edge area' of the ecosystem, providing novel microhabitats that buffer specialized endemic species against immediate extinction.
- C.
Mammals and birds requiring large territories, as well as animals with migratory habits, are disproportionately threatened by the division of the continuous habitat into smaller patches.
- D.
Because the region has high endemism, the destruction of a specific habitat patch results in the global extinction of species confined to it, triggering a multi-trophic collapse.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Invasive Weeds|Core Zone Fragmentation|Ecotone Dynamics
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often misinterpret the 'edge effect' in ecology.
A common misconception is that creating 'more edges' creates 'more niches' that support specialized biodiversity.
In reality, edge effects degrade the core habitat required by specialized, endemic species (which define a hotspot) and favor generalists.
Furthermore, the question synthesizes two NCERT concepts—Co-extinction and the Species-Area Relationship—requiring the student to deduce that obligate mutualism causes secondary extinctions that mathematically amplify the primary habitat loss.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biodiversity and Conservation - Class 12 |
| Concept | Alien Species Invasion Impacts |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |