The question asks to identify the scientist who popularized the term 'Biodiversity'. This is a factual recall question related to environmental science and the history of scientific terminology.
Correct Option: D) Edward O. Wilson is widely credited with popularizing the term 'Biodiversity' through his extensive work and publications, especially his 1988 book "Biodiversity".
The question asks to identify which option is NOT one of the three main levels of biodiversity. We need to recall the universally accepted classification of biodiversity into its primary components.
Correct Option: D) Population diversity is not considered one of the three main levels of biodiversity. While populations are crucial for understanding biodiversity, the primary classification focuses on genetic, species, and ecosystem levels.
The question asks to identify the active chemical produced by the medicinal plant Rauwolfia vomitoria, which is known for its genetic diversity and medicinal uses. This requires knowledge of common medicinal plants and their primary active compounds.
B) Reserpine — Rauwolfia vomitoria is well-known for producing reserpine, an indole alkaloid used in medicine for its antihypertensive and antipsychotic properties.
The question asks about the number of genetically different strains of rice found in India. This is a factual question related to biodiversity and agricultural statistics in India. The answer requires knowledge of the approximate number of rice varieties present in the country.
C) 50,000 — India is recognized as a major center of rice diversity, harboring an estimated 50,000 to 100,000 genetically distinct varieties of rice. This vast genetic pool is crucial for food security and breeding programs.
The question asks to identify which mountain range has a greater amphibian species diversity compared to the Eastern Ghats. This requires knowledge of the biodiversity hotspots in India, particularly concerning amphibian populations.
A) Western Ghats — The Western Ghats are a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot, particularly famous for their rich amphibian diversity, including a large number of endemic species. They consistently rank higher than the Eastern Ghats in terms of amphibian species richness and endemism.
The question asks about the total number of plant and animal species described worldwide according to IUCN (2004). This requires knowledge of biodiversity statistics and reports from authoritative sources like the IUCN.
Correct Option: D) The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List 2004 report indicated that the total number of plant and animal species described worldwide was slightly more than 1.5 million. This figure represents the known and formally cataloged species at that time.