Biodiversity in terms of species richness is maximum in:

[amp_mcq option1=”natural grasslands.” option2=”semi-natural grasslands.” option3=”artificial grasslands.” option4=”well maintained and watered grasslands.” correct=”option1″]

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UPSC Geoscientist – 2020

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Natural grasslands, untouched by intensive human management like heavy fertilization, frequent mowing, or planting of monocultures, typically exhibit the highest species richness compared to semi-natural or artificial (cultivated) grasslands. This is due to complex ecological interactions, varied microhabitats, and a lack of selective pressures from intensive management favoring only a few species.

Undisturbed or minimally managed natural ecosystems generally support greater biodiversity than managed or artificial ones.

Semi-natural grasslands, like traditionally managed meadows, can still have high biodiversity but might be slightly less diverse than pristine natural ones depending on the intensity and type of management. Artificial grasslands, such as pastures sown with only a few grass species for livestock or manicured lawns, have significantly lower species richness. Well-maintained and watered grasslands, if referring to artificial ones, would not be the most diverse.

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