Introduction:
Biodiversity, the foundation of life on Earth, is under constant threat due to human activities and environmental changes. The loss of biodiversity disrupts ecosystems, weakens food chains, and reduces nature’s resilience to climate change. While biodiversity loss is a global issue, some regions are more vulnerable than others, especially biodiversity hotspots—areas rich in endemic species but facing significant habitat destruction.
In this article, we will explore the major threats to biodiversity, compare how these threats impact India’s two most prominent biodiversity hotspots—the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayas, and discuss conservation strategies.
Major Threats to Biodiversity
1. Habitat Destruction and Fragmentation
Human encroachment for agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructure development has led to large-scale deforestation, shrinking natural habitats. Fragmentation isolates species populations, reducing their genetic diversity and survival chances.
Example
- The Western Ghats have lost over 40% of their forest cover due to plantation agriculture (tea, coffee, and rubber) and urban expansion.
- In the Eastern Himalayas, road construction and hydroelectric projects have fragmented wildlife corridors, affecting species migration.
The following graph has been showing the deforestation ratein Wester Ghats and Easter Himalayas during 2000-2025.
2. Climate Change
Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns disrupt ecosystems, leading to species migration and loss of biodiversity.
Example
- The Western Ghats are experiencing shifts in monsoon patterns, impacting endemic amphibians and reptiles that rely on stable humidity levels.
- The Eastern Himalayas, known for their diverse alpine ecosystems, are witnessing shrinking glaciers, affecting river flow and freshwater availability.
The following graph has been showing the Temperature Increase in India’s Biodiversity Hotspots (1990–2025).
2. Climate Change
Many species are targeted for their skin, bones, and medicinal properties, leading to severe population declines.
Example
- The Western Ghats are home to the Indian Pangolin, heavily poached for its scales and meat.
- The Eastern Himalayas face rampant poaching of the Red Panda for its fur and illegal pet trade.
4. Invasive Species
Non-native species introduced into an ecosystem can outcompete native species, altering food chains and ecosystem dynamics.
Example
- The Lantana camara, an invasive shrub, has overrun large portions of the Western Ghats, reducing native plant diversity.
- In the Eastern Himalayas, the spread of Pontederia crassipes (water hyacinth) has choked freshwater ecosystems, depleting oxygen and affecting aquatic species.
5. Pollution
Industrial pollution, plastic waste, and pesticide overuse have led to ecosystem degradation and declining species populations.
Example
- In the Western Ghats, pesticide runoff from coffee and tea plantations has led to amphibian deformities.
- In the Eastern Himalayas, river pollution from mining has affected fish populations, impacting livelihoods of local communities.
Comparative Study: Western Ghats vs. Eastern Himalayas
Factors | Western Ghats | Eastern Himalayas |
Threat Level | High | Very High |
Main Threat | Habitat Destruction | Climate Change |
Endemic Species | High (Amphibians, Birds) | High (Mammals, Plants) |
Human Impact | Agriculture, Urbanization | Hydroelectric Projects, Poaching |
Climate Change Effect | Rainfall Shift, Droughts | Glacier Melting, Temperature Rise |
Conservation Challenges
1. Policy and Enforcement Gaps
- Western Ghats: Fragmented conservation policies and lack of coordination between states.
- Eastern Himalayas: Difficulty in enforcing wildlife laws in remote terrains.
2. Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Western Ghats: Elephants and leopards straying into human settlements due to habitat fragmentation.
- Eastern Himalayas: Increased attacks by snow leopards and Himalayan bears on livestock.
3. Sustainable Development vs. Conservation
- Western Ghats: Pressure from tourism and hydroelectric projects.
- Eastern Himalayas: Balancing economic growth with ecosystem preservation.
Conservation Strategies
1. Strengthening Protected Areas
- Expanding national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to cover critical habitats.
- Example: Silent Valley National Park (Western Ghats) has successfully protected rare species like the Lion-tailed Macaque.
2. Eco-friendly Land Use Practices
- Promoting agroforestry to reduce deforestation.
- Encouraging organic farming in buffer zones.
3. Community Participation
- Local communities play a crucial role in conservation.
- Example: The Chipko Movement in the Himalayas helped prevent deforestation.
4. Climate Resilience Programs
- Implementing early warning systems for extreme weather events.
- Restoring wetlands and forests to act as carbon sinks.
Conclusion
Biodiversity is essential for a stable and thriving ecosystem, but it is under constant threat from human and environmental factors. The Western Ghats and Eastern Himalayas, India’s most crucial biodiversity hotspots, face distinct yet severe challenges. A combination of strong policies, community engagement, and sustainable development is needed to protect these irreplaceable ecosystems.
By taking immediate action, we can preserve biodiversity for future generations while ensuring ecological balance and environmental sustainability.