Imbalance in Prey–Predator Number in Sundarbans

One of the major environmental problems of the Sundarbans is the disturbance in prey–predator balance. The proportion between prey and predator is essential to maintain ecosystem stability. But due to human interference and environmental change, this balance has been disturbed.

Examples:

1. Poaching of tigers reduces the number of predators, resulting in the overpopulation of their prey such as spotted deer.
2. Illegal hunting of deer leads to shortage of tiger prey, forcing tigers to move out of the forest and attack domestic animals and humans.
3. Destruction of mangrove forests causes habitat loss for both tigers and herbivores, further distorting the food chain and ecological balance.​

Roles of Biosphere Reserve and Sanctuary in Biodiversity Conservation

• Biosphere Reserve: It conserves plants and animals in their natural habitat, allowing research and education on ecological and environmental conservation. Example: Sundarban Biosphere Reserve in West Bengal.
• Wildlife Sanctuary: It protects animals only in a reserved area while allowing limited human activity if it does not harm wildlife. Example: Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary in West Bengal.

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Causes for Endangeredness of Wild Animals

1. Royal Bengal Tiger: The population of tigers has greatly decreased due to poaching for skin and bones, destruction of forest habitat, and shortage of natural prey. Conservation efforts under Project Tiger have been successful in increasing their number in the Sundarban and other reserves.​
2. One-horned Rhinoceros: Poaching for its horn, which is illegally traded for ornamental and medicinal purposes, is the main cause behind the reduction of rhino population. Habitat destruction and encroachment of grasslands also pose a threat. Rhinos are being protected under Project Rhino in Kaziranga, Manas, and Jaldapara National Parks.​
3. Lion: The Asiatic lions of Gir Forest became endangered due to habitat destruction, human interference, and disease outbreak. The Project Lion was launched to protect them in Gir National Park, Gujarat, where their population has now increased gradually.​

Two Effects of Air Pollution on Human Health

1. Asthma: Air pollutants like dust, smoke, and soot cause inflammation of airways, resulting in chest tightness, coughing, and difficulty in breathing.
2. Bronchitis: Continuous inhalation of polluted air causes swelling in the bronchial tubes, excess mucus secretion, and chronic cough, leading to respiratory trouble.​