The Domino Effect
A small change in an ecosystem can lead to massive consequences.
Example: Pollution in a Pond
Case Study: The Frog Leg Export Ban
In the 1980s, India exported frog legs.
- Result: Frog population declined.
- Consequence: Since frogs eat insects, the insect pest population exploded in farms.
- Reaction: Farmers had to use dangerous chemical pesticides.
- Solution: The government banned frog export to restore ecological balance.
Conservation: The Sundarbans
The Sundarbans (Mangrove forests) are a critical ecosystem.
- Benefits: They act as a barrier against cyclones/tsunamis, protect soil from erosion, and provide a habitat for the Royal Bengal Tiger.
- Threats: Illegal logging, poaching, and pollution.
- Conservation: Designated as a World Heritage Site to protect this unique habitat.
Sustainable Farming
Modern farming (Green Revolution) increased food production but caused issues:
- Monoculture: Growing the same crop repeatedly reduces soil nutrients.
- Pesticides/Fertilizers: Kill friendly soil microbes (earthworms) and pollute water.
The Solution:
- Organic Farming: Using manure and compost.
- Crop Rotation: Changing crops to replenish soil.
- Biological Pest Control: Using natural predators (like ladybugs) instead of chemicals.