NCERT Science Notes - Class 8
Chapter 5 - Conservation of Plants and Animals

Welcome to AJs Chalo Seekhen. This webpage is dedicated to Class 8 | Science | Chapter 5 - Conservation of Plants and Animals. The chapter explores the causes and consequences of deforestation, the importance of wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and biosphere reserves, and the role of endemic and endangered species. Students learn about the Red Data Book, the significance of reforestation, and the impact of human activities on natural habitats. Understanding these concepts helps students appreciate the need for sustainable practices to protect our planet’s flora and fauna for future generations.

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NCERT Science Notes - Class 8
Chapter 5 - Conservation of Plants and Animals

National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves

1. Introduction:
   • In Class VII, Paheli and Boojho visited a forest with Professor Ahmad and Tibu and shared their experiences.
   • Other classmates also shared their experiences from visiting places like Bharatpur Sanctuary and learning about Kaziranga National Park, Lockchao Wildlife Sanctuary, Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, and Tiger Reserve.
2. Purpose of National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves:
   • Conservation of Biodiversity: Protect various species of flora and fauna.
   • Habitat Preservation: Safeguard natural habitats from destruction and degradation.
   • Research and Education: Provide opportunities for scientific research and environmental education.
   • Ecological Balance: Maintain ecological balance and support sustainable ecosystems.
   • Tourism and Recreation: Promote eco-tourism and provide recreational opportunities for visitors while raising awareness about conservation.

5.1 - Deforestation and Its Causes

1. Importance of Plants and Animals:
   • A wide variety of plants and animals exist on Earth, playing a crucial role in the well-being and survival of mankind.
2. Definition of Deforestation:
   • Deforestation refers to the clearing of forests and converting that land for other purposes.
3. Causes of Deforestation:
   • Human Activities:
     • Cultivation: Land is cleared for agricultural purposes.
     • Construction: Forests are cleared to build houses and factories.
     • Wood Usage: Trees are cut down for furniture production or to use wood as fuel.
   • Natural Causes:
     • Forest Fires: Uncontrolled fires can lead to significant loss of forested areas.
     • Severe Droughts: Lack of water can contribute to the degradation of forests.

Activity 5.1 : Causes of Deforestation

Additional Causes of Deforestation

1. Man-Made Causes:
   • Urbanization: Expansion of cities leads to clearing forests for residential and commercial developments.
   • Mining: Extraction of minerals and resources requires significant land clearing.
   • Infrastructure Development: Building roads, highways, and railways often involves cutting down trees.
   • Cattle Ranching: Forests are cleared to create pastures for livestock.
   • Plantation Agriculture: Large-scale plantations for crops like palm oil, rubber, and coffee replace natural forests.
   • Illegal Logging: Unsanctioned cutting of trees for profit without replanting or regulation.
2. Natural Causes:
   • Natural Disasters: Events such as hurricanes and floods can cause extensive damage to forests.
   • Pests and Diseases: Infestations and diseases can weaken or kill trees, leading to deforestation.
   • Climate Change: Changes in climate patterns can make certain areas more prone to droughts and fires, impacting forest health.

5.2 - Consequences of Deforestation

Key Consequences:

1. Increased Temperature and Pollution:
   • Deforestation leads to a rise in global temperatures and pollution levels.
   • Increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
2. Lowered Groundwater Levels:
   • Reduction in tree cover decreases groundwater recharge.
3. Disruption of Ecological Balance:
   • Deforestation disturbs the natural balance of ecosystems.
4. Impact on Rainfall and Soil Fertility:
   • Cutting down trees affects rainfall patterns, leading to decreased rainfall and soil fertility.
   • Increased chances of natural calamities such as floods and droughts.

Explanation of Deforestation Effects:

• Reduction in Rainfall:
  • Fewer trees mean less carbon dioxide is absorbed, leading to its accumulation in the atmosphere.
  • Increased carbon dioxide contributes to global warming, which disturbs the water cycle and may reduce rainfall.
• Flooding:
  • The removal of trees leads to increased soil erosion, exposing less fertile soil and decreasing the water-holding capacity of the soil.
  • Reduced infiltration rates lead to flooding.
• Desertification:
  • Loss of vegetation and fertile soil gradually converts land into deserts.
    
    

• Physical properties such as texture and nutrient content are altered.
• Topsoil erosion exposes lower layers that are less fertile.

• Timber, fuelwood, medicinal plants, fruits, nuts, and resins.

• If deforestation continues, there will be a significant shortage of forest products essential for various needs and industries.

Activity 5.2 : Impact of Deforestation on Animal Life

Discussion Points:

1. Habitat Loss:
   • Deforestation leads to the destruction of natural habitats where many species live. Animals lose their homes, leading to displacement.
2. Decreased Food Sources:
   • Many animals depend on specific plants and trees for food. When forests are cleared, their food sources diminish, affecting their survival.
3. Fragmentation of Ecosystems:
   • Deforestation results in fragmented habitats, isolating animal populations. This isolation can lead to reduced genetic diversity and increased vulnerability to extinction.
4. Increased Competition:
   • With fewer resources available, animals may face increased competition for food, shelter, and mates, leading to stress and population decline.
5. Human-Wildlife Conflicts:
   • As animals are pushed out of their habitats, they may venture into human settlements in search of food, leading to conflicts and potential harm to both animals and humans.
6. Threatened and Endangered Species:
   • Many species are already threatened by habitat loss. Deforestation can accelerate their decline, pushing them closer to extinction.
7. Altered Ecosystem Balance:
   • The removal of specific species can disrupt the food chain and ecological balance, affecting other species in the ecosystem.
8. Increased Vulnerability to Climate Change:
   • Animals that are already stressed due to habitat loss may be less able to adapt to climate changes, increasing their risk of extinction.

Biosphere and Biodiversity

5.3 - Conservation of Forest and Wildlife

Importance of Conservation:

• Awareness of the effects of deforestation has raised concerns about saving forests and wildlife.
• Paheli and Boojho seek guidance from Professor Ahmad on conservation efforts.
  
  

• Professor Ahmad organizes a visit to Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve for Paheli, Boojho, and their classmates.
• The reserve features biodiversity similar to both the upper Himalayan peaks and the lower Western Ghats.
• It is recognized for its unique biodiversity, which is a vital part of our national heritage.
  
  

• Government agencies implement rules, methods, and policies for forest and wildlife conservation.
• Protected areas like wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and biosphere reserves are established for the protection of flora and fauna.
  
  

1. Wildlife Sanctuary:
   • Areas where animals are protected from disturbances and threats to their habitats.
2. National Park:
   • Areas reserved for wildlife to use habitats and natural resources freely without human interference.
3. Biosphere Reserve:
   • Large protected areas that conserve wildlife, plant resources, and traditional lifestyles of local tribes.
     
     

• Activities such as plantation, cultivation, grazing, felling trees, hunting, and poaching are prohibited in these protected areas.
• Efforts at both individual and societal levels, alongside government actions, are crucial for effective conservation.

Activity 5.3

Table 5.1 : Protected Areas for Conservation

Outline Map: To show these protected areas on an outline map of Madhya Pradesh and India:

1. Madhya Pradesh:
   • Mark the locations of the 9 national parks, 25 wildlife sanctuaries, and 5 biosphere reserves on the state map.
2. India:
   • Indicate the locations of the 104 national parks, 566 wildlife sanctuaries, and 18 biosphere reserves on the country map.

5.4 - Biosphere Reserve

Flora of Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve

• Sal
• Teak
• Mango
• Jamun
• Silver Ferns
• Arjun

• Chinkara
• Blue Bull
• Barking Deer
• Cheetal
• Leopard
• Wild Dog
• Wolf

Activity 5.5 - Identify the flora and fauna of Madhya Pradesh:

5.5 - Flora and Fauna

• Flora: The plants found in a particular area.
• Fauna: The animals found in a particular area.

• The children admire the diverse plant life, including tall teak trees, in the biosphere reserve.
• Importance of Habitat:
  • Professor Ahmad advises against disturbing animals in their natural habitat as it affects their comfort and well-being.
• Adaptation:
  • Certain plants and animals are specifically adapted to their environments, contributing to the biodiversity of that area.

NCERT Science Notes - Class 8 | Science | Chapter 5 - Conservation of Plants and Animals

5.6 Endemic Species

1. Definition: Endemic species are plants and animals that are found exclusively in a specific area and are not naturally occurring anywhere else.
2. Examples in Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve:
   1. Endemic Flora:
      1. Sal
      2. Wild Mango
   2. Endemic Fauna:
      1. Indian Giant Squirrel
      2. Flying Squirrel
      3. Bison
3. Threats to Endemic Species:
   1. Destruction of Habitat: Loss of natural habitats due to deforestation and land use changes.
   2. Increasing Popolation: Human popolation growth can lead to overexploitation of resources.
   3. Introduction of New Species: Non-native species can disrupt local ecosystems and outcompete endemic species.
4. Concern: Endemic species are at risk of extinction due to these threats, and their vanishing coold lead to loss of biodiversity.

Species

• Species: A species is a group of populations whose members can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.

1. Interbreeding: Members of a species can reproduce only with each other, not with members of other species.
2. Fertile Offspring: The offspring produced through interbreeding are capable of reproduction.
3. Common Characteristics: Members of a species share specific traits and characteristics that distinguish them from other species.

• Understanding species is crucial for biodiversity conservation, ecological studies, and studying evolutionary processes.

Activity 5.6

Here's a concise table for the endemic plants and animals of the Madhya Pradesh region:

5.7 Wildlife Sanctuary

• Introduction to Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary: Paheli and her classmates notice a signboard for the Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Protection of Animals:
  • Poaching (killing or capturing animals) is strictly prohibited and punishable by law in wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Wildlife sanctuaries, like reserve forests, provide protection and suitable living conditions for wild animals.
• Permitted Activities:
  • Local people are allowed certain activities within wildlife sanctuaries, including:
    • Grazing livestock
    • Collecting medicinal plants
    • Gathering firewood
• Threatened Species:
  • Various threatened wild animals are protected in wildlife sanctuaries, including:
    • Black Buck, White-eyed Buck, Elephant, Golden Cat, Pink-headed Duck, Gharial, Marsh Crocodile, Python, Rhinoceros
• Unique Landscapes:
  • Indian wildlife sanctuaries feature diverse landscapes, such as broad-level forests, mountain forests, and bushlands in river deltas.
• Challenges to Protection:
  • Even protected forests face threats from encroachment and destruction by nearby communities.
• Comparison to Zoos:
  • The children recall their visit to the zoo and wonder about the difference between a zoo and a wildlife sanctuary.

• Wildlife sanctuaries play a crucial role in protecting endangered species and providing natural habitats.
• Local communities have some rights to utilize resources, but poaching remains illegal.
• The preservation of biodiversity is challenged by human encroachment.

Difference Between a Zoo and a Wildlife Sanctuary

Summary:

• Zoos focus on education and recreation, often at the cost of natural behavior, while wildlife sanctuaries prioritize the conservation of species in their natural habitats.

Activity 5.7 : Visit to a Nearby Zoo

Observations:

1. Conditions Provided to Animals:
   • Space: Observe the size of enclosures and whether they allow for natural movement.
   • Environment: Check if the enclosures replicate the animals' natural habitats (e.g., vegetation, terrain).
   • Shelter: Note if there are suitable areas for animals to hide or rest.
   • Water Source: Ensure there is clean water available for drinking and bathing.
   • Food: Assess the quality and variety of food provided.
2. Suitability for Animals:
   • Positive Aspects:
     • Enclosures that mimic natural habitats can provide mental stimulation and a sense of security.
     • Zoos often have caretakers who monitor the health and well-being of the animals.
   • Negative Aspects:
     • Some animals may experience stress or anxiety due to limited space and lack of natural stimuli.
     • Captive breeding programs may not adequately prepare animals for reintroduction to the wild.

1. Can Animals Live in Artificial Settings Instead of Their Natural Habitat?
   • Animals can survive in artificial settings, but their well-being may be compromised. Natural instincts and behaviors may be suppressed in confined spaces, leading to psychological stress.
2. Will the Animals Be Comfortable in a Zoo or in Their Natural Habitat?
   • In general, animals are more comfortable in their natural habitats where they can express natural behaviors, find food, and interact with other species. While zoos strive to provide a safe environment, they cannot fully replicate the complexities of a wild ecosystem.

• While zoos can play a role in conservation and education, it is essential to prioritize the well-being of animals. Efforts should be made to improve enclosure designs and practices to better mimic natural habitats and promote animal comfort.

5.8 National Park

National Park: Satpura National Park

1. Introduction to National Parks:
   • National parks are large protected areas designed to preserve entire ecosystems.
   • They aim to protect flora, fauna, landscapes, and historic objects of a region.
2. Satpura National Park:
   • Significance:
     • It is the first Reserve Forest of India.
     • Home to the finest Indian teak trees.
   • Diversity:
     • The park encompasses a rich variety of ecosystems, flora, and fauna.
     • Contains over one hundred National Parks across India.
3. Cultural and Historical Importance:
   • The park features rock shelters that provide evidence of prehistoric human life.
   • Rock paintings have been discovered in these shelters, depicting:
     • Animals
     • Scenes of men fighting, hunting, dancing, and playing musical instruments.
   • A total of 55 rock shelters have been identified in the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve.
4. Tribal Communities:
   • Many tribal people continue to live in the area surrounding Satpura National Park, maintaining their cultural heritage and connection to the land.

Satpura Tiger Reserve

1. Project Tiger:
   • Launched by the government to protect tigers in India.
   • Aims to ensure the survival and maintenance of the tiger population.
2. Importance of Satpura Tiger Reserve:
   • Unique because the tiger population has significantly increased here.
   • Once, animals like lions, elephants, wild buffaloes, and barasingha were also found in the area.
3. Endangered Animals:
   • Animals that are disappearing and might face extinction are called endangered animals.
   • Example: Dinosaurs, which became extinct a long time ago.
4. Protection Rules:
   • Strict rules are imposed in National Parks to protect plants and animals.
   • Activities like grazing, poaching, hunting, capturing animals, and collecting firewood or medicinal plants are not allowed.

Endangered Species

1. Are Only Big Animals Facing Extinction?
   • No, small animals are often more at risk of extinction than larger animals.
2. Importance of Small Animals:
   • Animals like snakes, frogs, lizards, bats, and owls are often killed without realizing their importance.
   • Despite their small size, they play crucial roles in the ecosystem.
3. Role in the Ecosystem:
   • Small animals are part of food chains and food webs.
   • They help maintain the balance in ecosystems.
4. Understanding Ecosystems:
   • An ecosystem includes all plants, animals, microorganisms, and non-living components (like climate, soil, and water bodies) in an area.

5.9 - Red Data Book

1. Definition:
   • The Red Data Book is a comprehensive record that lists all endangered animals and plants.
2. Purpose:
   • It serves as a source book for understanding the status of different species and their conservation needs.
3. Maintenance:
   • International Level: The Red Data Book is maintained by an international organization.
   • National Level: India has its own Red Data Book specifically for the plants and animals found in the country.

5.10 - Migration

1. Definition:
   • Migration refers to the seasonal movement of birds and animals from one place to another, usually in search of food, breeding grounds, or better climatic conditions.
2. Migratory Birds:
   • These birds travel long distances to different areas, especially when their natural habitat becomes cold or inhospitable.
   • They typically return to their original habitat after the climate improves.
3. Reason for Migration:
   • Climatic changes prompt migratory birds to leave their home areas to find suitable conditions for laying eggs and survival.

5.11 - Recycling of Paper

1. Impact of Paper Production:
   • Making one tonne of paper requires 17 full-grown trees.
   • This contributes to deforestation.
2. Importance of Recycling:
   • Paper can be recycled 5 to 7 times.
   • Recycling helps save trees, energy, and water.
   • Reduces the amount of harmful chemicals used in paper production.
3. Individual Action:
   • If each student saves one sheet of paper daily, it can lead to significant tree savings over a year.
   • Encourage practices like saving, reusing, and recycling paper.

• A permanent solution involves sustainable practices such as:
  • Recycling materials to reduce the need for new resources.
  • Using alternative materials for products traditionally made from trees.
  • Promoting afforestation to replenish lost forests.
  • Implementing strict laws to protect existing forests from illegal logging and encroachment.

5.12 - Reforestation

1. Definition:
   • Reforestation is the restocking of destroyed forests by planting new trees.
2. Planting Trees:
   • Trees planted should be of the same species that were originally in the forest.
   • We should plant at least as many trees as we cut down.
3. Natural Reforestation:
   • If a deforested area is left undisturbed, it can re-establish itself naturally without human intervention.
4. Importance:
   • To retain our green wealth for future generations, more trees must be planted.
5. Legal Framework:
   • India has the Forest (Conservation) Act aimed at preserving natural forests and meeting the basic needs of local people.

NCERT Science Notes - Class 8 Chapter 5 - Conservation of Plants and Animals