Differentiate between the following. a) Wildlife sanctuary and biosphere reserve b) Zoo and Wildlife sanctuary c) Endangered and extinct species d) Flora and fauna

Biodiversity conservation is crucial for maintaining the balance of ecosystems. To effectively protect wildlife and natural habitats, it is important to understand key environmental terms such as wildlife sanctuary, biosphere reserve, zoo, endangered species, extinct species, flora, and fauna. Below is a detailed differentiation between these commonly used terms in the field of conservation.

(a) Difference Between Wildlife Sanctuary and Biosphere Reserve

Both wildlife sanctuaries and biosphere reserves are protected areas, but they differ in their size, purpose, and the level of human intervention allowed.

Feature	Wildlife Sanctuary	Biosphere Reserve
Definition	A wildlife sanctuary is a protected area where wild animals are conserved in their natural habitat without human interference.	A biosphere reserve is a larger protected area that includes wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and human settlements to conserve biodiversity at a broader level.
Purpose	To provide safe habitats for animals, preventing hunting, poaching, and habitat destruction.	To maintain ecological balance and conserve the entire ecosystem, including plants, animals, and local communities.
Human Activity	Limited human activity such as controlled tourism and grazing is allowed.	Divided into three zones: Core Zone (no human activity), Buffer Zone (limited human activity), and Transition Zone (sustainable human settlements).
Size	Smaller in comparison to biosphere reserves.	Much larger and covers multiple ecosystems.
Example	Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajasthan), Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu).	Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka), Sunderbans Biosphere Reserve (West Bengal).

(b) Difference Between Zoo and Wildlife Sanctuary

Both zoos and wildlife sanctuaries protect animals, but they differ in how animals are kept and their natural surroundings.

Feature	Zoo	Wildlife Sanctuary
Definition	A zoo is a facility where animals are kept in enclosures for education, research, and public display.	A wildlife sanctuary is a natural area where animals are protected in their natural habitat.
Habitat	Artificially created habitat with cages, enclosures, or glass walls.	Natural habitat with minimal human interference.
Purpose	Primarily for educational and entertainment purposes, as well as breeding programs for endangered species.	Conservation of wildlife by providing a safe and free-roaming environment.
Freedom of Animals	Animals are confined to enclosures.	Animals can roam freely within the sanctuary’s boundaries.
Example	Delhi Zoo, Mysore Zoo.	Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary (Assam), Gir Wildlife Sanctuary (Gujarat).

(c) Difference Between Endangered and Extinct Species

Species conservation efforts categorise species based on their population status. Two important terms in this context are endangered and extinct species.

Feature	Endangered Species	Extinct Species
Definition	Endangered species are those that are at high risk of becoming extinct due to habitat loss, poaching, or other factors.	Extinct species are those that no longer exist anywhere on Earth.
Causes	Habitat destruction, deforestation, poaching, climate change, pollution, and disease.	Excessive hunting, habitat destruction, environmental changes, and natural disasters.
Possibility of Recovery	Conservation efforts like breeding programs and habitat protection can help increase their numbers.	Cannot be revived once completely extinct.
Example	Bengal Tiger, Giant Panda, Asian Elephant.	Dodo, Passenger Pigeon, Woolly Mammoth.

(d) Difference Between Flora and Fauna

Flora and fauna are the essential components of an ecosystem, where flora refers to plant life and fauna refers to animal life.

Feature	Flora	Fauna
Definition	Flora refers to all plant species, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses, found in a particular region.	Fauna refers to all animal species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, found in a particular region.
Examples	Mangroves, Oak trees, Cactus, Rose plants, and Algae.	Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, Peacocks, Snakes, and Butterflies.
Influencing Factors	Climate, soil quality, water availability, and human activity.	Availability of food, habitat conditions, predators, and climate.
Role in Ecosystem	Produces oxygen, provides food, and maintains ecological balance.	Helps in pollination, seed dispersal, and maintaining predator-prey relationships.

Conservation efforts aim to protect and restore wildlife and natural ecosystems. Understanding the differences between wildlife sanctuaries and biosphere reserves helps in recognizing their role in biodiversity conservation. Differentiating between endangered and extinct species highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts. Similarly, recognizing the role of flora and fauna in ecosystems ensures that plant and animal life are preserved for future generations. By spreading awareness and supporting conservation programs, we can contribute to maintaining ecological balance and protecting the natural world.

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Chilka Lake is Situated in _ and Famous for _ Differentiate between the following. a) Wildlife sanctuary and biosphere reserve b) Zoo and Wildlife sanctuary c) Endangered and extinct species d) Flora and fauna

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