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Chapter 3: Problem 11

Where are most biodiversity hotspots located?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Most biodiversity hotspots are located in tropical rainforests, island ecosystems, and regions with unique ecosystems, such as the Mediterranean Basin. The majority can be found in tropical regions such as Central and South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Examples include the Tropical Andes, the Atlantic Forest, Mesoamerica, the Caribbean Islands, and Sundaland.

Step by step solution

01

Define Biodiversity Hotspots

Biodiversity hotspots are regions on Earth that have both a high level of biodiversity, as well as a high level of threat to this biodiversity due to human activities such as habitat destruction and climate change.
02

Identify Criteria for Biodiversity Hotspots

According to Conservation International, a biodiversity hotspot is a region that: 1. Contains at least 1,500 species of vascular plants as endemics (meaning species that are found nowhere else in the world). 2. Has lost at least 70% of its original habitat.
03

Locate Biodiversity Hotspots

Conservation International has identified 36 biodiversity hotspots worldwide. These hotspots are located in various locations across the globe, including tropical rain forests, islands, and temperate climates. Some examples of biodiversity hotspots are: 1. The Tropical Andes (South America) 2. The Atlantic Forest (South America) 3. The Mesoamerica (Central America and Mexico) 4. The Caribbean Islands 5. The Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East) 6. The Western Ghats and Sri Lanka (South Asia) 7. Sundaland (Southeast Asia) 8. Wallacea (Indonesia) 9. The Philippines 10. Madagascar and the Indian Ocean Islands
04

Answer the Question

Most biodiversity hotspots are located in tropical rainforests, island ecosystems, and regions with unique ecosystems, such as the Mediterranean Basin. While there are hotspots distributed across the world, the majority can be found in tropical regions such as Central and South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

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