Explanation: The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is a protected area in India that was established in 1986. It is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is known for its rich biodiversity, particularly its high percentage of flowering plant species. The reserve covers an area of 5,520 square kilometers and spans across the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. This geographical distribution is significant because it includes a variety of ecosystems, from the Western Ghats to the Nilgiri mountains, which contribute to the high biodiversity.
The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including about 80 percent of flowering plant species. This high percentage is due to the unique ecological conditions and the varied topography of the region. The Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India, is a biodiversity hotspot and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is a part of this region and plays a crucial role in the conservation of this biodiversity.
The reserve is not only important for its plant species but also for its animal species, including several endangered species such as the Nilgiri tahr, the lion-tailed macaque, and the Nilgiri langur. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is managed by the Indian government and various conservation organizations to ensure the protection of its biodiversity and the sustainable use of its resources.
In contrast, the other options listed in the question are incorrect for the following reasons:
- The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is located in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand and is known for its high-altitude biodiversity, not for the specific area or percentage of flowering plant species mentioned in the question.
- The Sunderban Biosphere Reserve is located in the delta region of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers, primarily in West Bengal, and is known for its mangrove forests and the Bengal tiger, not for the high percentage of flowering plant species or the specific area mentioned in the question.
- The Gulf of Mannar Reserve is a marine biosphere reserve located in the Gulf of Mannar between India and Sri Lanka, covering parts of Tamil Nadu and the Palk Strait. It is known for its marine biodiversity, not for the high percentage of flowering plant species or the specific area mentioned in the question.
Understanding the specific characteristics and geographical distribution of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is essential for comprehending its significance in the context of Indian biodiversity and conservation efforts.