World's 8 ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity; India on the list

Biological diversity, or biodiversity, refers to the variety of life found in different ecosystems across the planet. Some regions stand out due to their extraordinary concentration of unique species and ecosystems, earning them the designation of biodiversity hotspots. There are a total of 36 biodiversity hotspots on Earth, and each of these harbour a remarkable array of flora and fauna, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. However, there are 8 special spots, collectively known as ‘hottest hotspots’, meaning, these hotspots are a notch higher in popularity than the rest. Here are the 8 hottest hotspots of biological diversity.

Madagascar, an island nation off the southeast coast of Africa, is a hotspot of biodiversity. The island is so special that over 90% of its wildlife is found nowhere else on Earth. The island’s ecosystems range from rainforests to arid spiny forests, and is home to unique species like the lemurs, chameleons, and the famous baobab trees.

The Philippines is an archipelago comprising over 7,000 islands, known for its incredibly rich marine and terrestrial biodiversity. It is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world, with a high level of endemism. The Philippines is home to over 52,000 species of plants and animals, with more than half of them being unique to the country. The diverse ecosystems include rainforests, coral reefs, and mangroves, supporting species like the Philippine eagle and the tarsier.

Sundaland refers to a biogeographical region of Southeast Asia, which includes the Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra, Java, and the surrounding islands. This area is a crucial biodiversity hotspot, with dense tropical rainforests that are among the oldest and most species-rich in the world. Sundaland is home to endangered species like the orangutan, Sumatran tiger, and the Bornean pygmy elephant.

The Atlantic Forest in Brazil once covered a vast area along the Atlantic coast but has been reduced to just around 12% of its original size due to urban development, agriculture, and deforestation. Despite this, it remains a biodiversity hotspot, housing thousands of endemic species, including the golden lion tamarin, the maned three-toed sloth, and a wide array of plant species. The Atlantic Forest’s unique climate and geography have fostered a diverse range of habitats, from mangroves to cloud forests, making it one of the most important ecosystems in the world.

The Caribbean Islands are a biodiversity hotspot comprising more than 7,000 islands, islets, reefs, and cays. This region is known for its diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and mangrove swamps. The islands are home to a wide variety of endemic species and many unique species of birds, amphibians, and reptiles.

The Indo-Burma region encompasses parts of northeastern India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and southern China. This area is incredibly diverse, with a range of ecosystems including tropical and subtropical forests, rivers, wetlands, and mangroves. The Indo-Burma region is home to many endemic species, such as the Saola (also known as the Asian unicorn), the giant ibis, and numerous freshwater turtle species. The region is one of the most critically endangered biodiversity hotspots in the world.

The Western Ghats in India, along with Sri Lanka, form a biodiversity hotspot of global significance. The Western Ghats are home to a wide variety of endemic species, including the lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri tahr, and numerous unique species of amphibians and plants. Sri Lanka's diverse habitats, ranging from rainforests to dry lowlands, support an array of endemic species such as the Sri Lankan leopard and the purple-faced langur.

The Eastern Arc Mountains and Coastal Forests of Tanzania and Kenya are among the most ancient and biologically diverse ecosystems in the world. The region is characterised by isolated mountain ranges, ancient forests, and coastal ecosystems. Species like the Usambara eagle-owl, the Tanzanian black-and-white colobus, and numerous plant species are unique to this area.