NCERT Notes for Class 8 Science Chapter 5: Conservation of Plants and Animals
Last Updated : 15 Apr, 2025
NCERT Notes for Class 8 Science Chapter - 5: Conservation of Plants and Animals: Plants and animals play integral roles in sustaining life on Earth. They contribute to vital ecological processes such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and maintaining the overall health of ecosystems. However, human activities, including habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, and overexploitation, have put numerous species at risk of extinction. It is our responsibility to take action to prevent further loss and conserve these valuable resources for future generations.
CBSE Class 8 Chapter 05 Conservation of Plant and Animals explains that conservation is the attempt to protect endangered animal and plant species, along with their natural habitat. The main objective is to make sure that their habitats will be preserved. Raising public awareness about the importance of conservation is essential for long-term success. Community involvement, education programs, and promoting sustainable practices help bring up a sense of responsibility and encourage individuals to protect plants and animals.
Deforestation and its Causes
Deforestation means clearing forests and using that land for other purposes. Trees in the forest are cut for some of the purposes mentioned below:
- Procuring land for cultivation: Procurement is done to meet the growing needs of food for the growing population. Forests lands are converted into agricultural lands by cutting off trees leading to Deforestation.
- Building houses and factories: As people move from rural to urban areas, the population increases in that particular area. In order to build structures for a growing population, urban developers convert surrounding forests into housing societies and large-scale industries for their operations.
- Making furniture or using wood as fuel: Forests are the only source to produce a tremendous amount of wood for furniture making. And the demand for wood is increasing rapidly; simultaneously, the area of forest lands is shrinking gradually. Besides, trees are also cut down to use as fuel for various purposes such as cooking, heating, etc.
- Forest fires and severe droughts: Deforestation due to forest fires and severe droughts have become a major problem. Forest fires and droughts destroy vast areas of forest land. These can destroy entire ecosystems, leaving behind nothing but barren land.
Consequences of Deforestation
Deforestation not only affects the wildlife quite severely but also affects the environment in various ways, such as:
Greenhouse Effect
The greenhouse effect is one of the main effects of cutting countless trees every year. Trees help maintain the balance of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the atmosphere. This balance has been disturbed due to the loss of millions of trees. Deforestation is also causing the release of other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere leading to global warming.
Soil Erosion Effect
We all know that trees help in binding the soil together to protect it from erosion. Due to excessive deforestation across the globe, soil erosion is occurring at a higher rate.
Imbalance in the Water Cycle
Deforestation has a huge impact on the water cycle. Trees play a vital role in the water cycle by regulating the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere. When trees are removed, the amount of water vapor decreases, which leads to a decrease in precipitation.
Deforestation Contributes to Acidic Ocean
Deforestation plays a significant role in the acidification of our oceans. When trees are cut down, they no longer have the ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This gas then dissolves into the ocean, where it forms carbonic acid. This process increases the ocean’s acidity, which is detrimental to marine life.
Deforestation Affects Wildlife
Deforestation affects wildlife in many ways. One way is that it destroys their habitat. When animals lose their homes, they also lose access to food and water; This can lead to starvation and dehydration. Deforestation also reduces the populations of certain species of animals.
Deforestation Leads to Floods and Droughts
Deforestation can lead to both floods and droughts. When there are fewer trees to absorb water, the ground becomes much drier. This can lead to droughts when there is not enough rain. When it does rain, the water has nowhere to go and can cause floods.
Desertification
Removal of the top layer of the soil caused by deforestation exposes the lower, hard, and rocky layers. This soil has less humus and is less fertile. Gradually the fertile land gets converted into deserts. It is called desertification.
For more information read: Consequence of Deforestation
Conservation of Forest and Wildlife
Apart from our personal efforts and efforts of the society, government agencies also take care of the forests and animals. The government lays down rules, methods, and policies to protect and conserve them. Wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, biosphere reserves, etc., are protected areas for the conservation of plants and animals present in that area.
- Wildlife Sanctuary: Areas where animals are protected from any disturbance to them and their habitat.
- National Park: Areas reserved for wildlife where they can freely use the habitats and natural resources.
- Biosphere Reserve: Large areas of protected land for the conservation of wildlife, plant and animal resources, and the traditional life of the tribals living in the area.
Biosphere Reserve
Biosphere reserves are the areas meant for the conservation of biodiversity. Biodiversity is the variety of plants, animals, and microorganisms generally found in an area. The biosphere reserves help to maintain the biodiversity and culture of that area. Example: Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve. The Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve consists of one national park named Satpura and two wildlife sanctuaries named Bori and Pachmarhi.
Flora and Fauna
Some animals and plants typically belong to a particular area. The plants and animals found in a particular area are termed flora and fauna respectively of that area. Sal, teak, mango, jamun, silver ferns, Arjun, etc., are the flora, and chinkara, blue-bull, barking deer, cheetah, leopard, wild dog, wolf, etc. are examples of the fauna of the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve.
Also Read: Flora and Fauna
Endemic Species
Endemic species are those species of plants and animals that are found exclusively in a particular area. They are not naturally found anywhere else. A particular type of animal or plant may be endemic to a zone, a state, or a country.
- Sal and wild mango are two examples of the endemic flora of the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve.
- Bison, Indian giant squirrels, and flying squirrels are endemic fauna of this area.
Wildlife Sanctuary
Wildlife Sanctuaries like reserve forests provide protection and suitable living conditions for wild animals. People living in wildlife sanctuaries are allowed to do certain activities such as grazing their livestock, collecting medicinal plants, firewood, etc. Killing (poaching) or capturing animals, in general, is strictly prohibited and punishable by law in all such places. Some of the threatened wild animals like black buck, white-eyed buck, elephant, golden cat, pink-headed duck, gharial, marsh crocodile, python, rhinoceros, etc., are protected and preserved in our wildlife sanctuaries.
National Park
These reserves are large and diverse enough to protect whole sets of ecosystems. They preserve the flora, fauna, landscape, and historic objects of an area. Satpura National Park is the first Reserve Forest in India. The finest Indian teak is found in this forest. There are more than one hundred National Parks in India.
Project Tiger: It was launched by the government to protect the tigers in the country. The objective of this project was to ensure the survival and maintenance of the tiger population in the country.
Red Data Book
Red Data Book is the sourcebook that keeps a record of all the endangered animals and plants. Red Data Book is maintained internationally by an organization. India also maintains Red Data Book for plants and animals found in India.
Migration
The seasonal movement of animals or birds from one place to another place to avoid harsh climatic conditions is known as migration. Migratory birds fly to faraway areas every year during a particular time because of climatic changes. They fly for laying eggs as the weather in their natural habitat becomes very cold and inhospitable. Birds who cover long distances to reach another land are known as migratory birds.
Recycling of Paper
Paper recycling refers to the process of reprocessing waste paper for reuse. Waste papers are either obtained from paper mill paper scraps, discarded paper materials, and waste paper material discarded after consumer use. Examples of commonly known papers recycled are old newspapers and magazines.
Benefits:
- Not only save trees but also save energy and water needed for manufacturing paper.
- The amount of harmful chemicals used in paper making will also be reduced.
Reforestation
Reforestation is restocking the destroyed forests by planting new trees. The planted trees should generally be of the same species which were found in that forest. We should plant at least as many trees as we cut. Reforestation can take place naturally also. If the deforested area is left undisturbed, it re-establishes itself. In natural reforestation, there is no role for human beings. In India, we have the Forest (Conservation) Act. This act is aimed at the preservation and conservation of natural forests and meeting the basic needs of the people living in or near the forests
Similar Reads
CBSE Class 8 Science Notes 2023-24 CBSE Class 8 Science Notes 2023-24 is a comprehensive guide for CBSE Class 8 students. The Class 8 syllabus is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the basic principles of science, including Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, and to encourage them to think scientifically. Our CBSE
15+ min read
Chapter 1 - Crop Production and Management
Agricultural Practices - Planting, Irrigation, Weeding, Harvesting, StorageThe number of inhabitants in India generally relies upon farming, and it isn't just barely a method for work yet an approach to everyday life. The Government of India is consistently fostering the rural area by outlining new regulations, executing current innovations, and so on. In India, the Whole
9 min read
Basic Practices of Crop ProductionBasic practice of crop production involves several key steps and considerations to ensure successful cultivation.  Crops are plants that are grown on a large scale from the same variety. Agriculture is the practice of cultivating crops. The basic practice of crop production involves selecting suitab
10 min read
Preparation of SoilSoil is a critical natural resource. Soil is the earth's thin surface layer composed of mineral particles formed by the breakdown (weathering) of rocks, decayed organic materials, living organisms, water, and air. Soil formation occurs through a variety of processes, including weathering of rocks an
6 min read
Agricultural Implements and ToolsCrops are plants that are grown and harvested by farmers for profit or subsistence. Crops are essential for the survival of both animals and humans. Agriculture is the branch of science that deals with the study of crop cultivation and cattle rearing. Crops are harvested and used as food for humans
8 min read
Sowing - Definition and Methods of Planting SeedsAround 70 - 80 percent of the total populace rehearses agribusiness. There are sure boundaries and different rural practices, which should have been followed for good quality and amount of harvest creation. Crops are plants developed by ranchers. Horticulture assumes a vital part of the Indian econo
7 min read
Irrigation - Definition, Types, Methods, SignificanceHorticulture is the science, which primarily manages the assorted cycles or the strategies utilized for developing various assortments of plants and animals cultivating or creature farming based on human prerequisites. At the point when plants of a similar assortment are developed for a huge scope,
7 min read
Crop Protection and WeedingCrop protection is a generic strategy or technique for defending crop yields against a variety of species, such as pests, weeds, plant diseases, and other creatures that harm crops. In addition to weeds, tiny creatures like rodents, mites, insects, pests, disease-causing diseases, and regularlyattac
5 min read
HarvestingHarvesting of crops involves the process of gathering mature crops from the fields. It is a critical step in agriculture that ensures the crops are collected at their peak quality and stored properly to prevent spoilage and loss. The process can be done by either harvesting machines or by skilled wo
6 min read
Storage of Grains - Overview, Importance, Affecting FactorsMan has been storing grains and other products for a long time. It is ever worry for man to hold food supply to mitigate hunger in the time ahead. Storage of grain and control of quality happen in three areas; the farm area, the collection point area, and the terminal point area where grain is proce
14 min read
Food Sources - Food from Plants and AnimalsFood sources are broadly categorized into plant-based and animal-based origins. Plant-based foods include fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, providing essential nutrients such as vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Animal-based foods encompass meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs,
11 min read
Animal Husbandry - Types and AdvantagesAgriculture is a branch of science that primarily focuses on the many procedures or techniques used to raise various plant species and care for animals' human needs. In India, agriculture is practised by over 70% of the people. To ensure maximum output in the fields, crop production and management a
5 min read
NCERT Notes Class 8 Science Chapter - 1: Crop Production and ManagementNCERT Notes for Class 8 Science Chapter 1: Crop Production and Management: Crop production and management is a crucial aspect of agriculture. It involves the methods and techniques used to cultivate crops and ensure their proper growth, to obtain maximum yield. The process of crop production and man
12 min read
Chapter 2 - Microorganisms: Friend and Foe
Where do Microorganisms Live?Microorganisms are cosmopolitan i.e. they are found everywhere. Microorganisms are present everywhere and they can survive in all types of environments. They are also present in the bodies of different animals and plants. Some microorganisms are useful for plants, animals, and humans, whereas others
6 min read
Medicinal Use of Microorganisms - CBSE Class 8Medicinal Uses of Microorganisms include the production of antibiotics and vaccines, vitamins and minerals supplements, etc. Microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae play a vital role in medicines for humans, plants, and animals. Some microbes are harmful whereas some microbes are useful to
4 min read
Increasing Soil Fertility and Cleaning the Environment - NCERTIf we look at the water droplets in a pond under a microscope, we will see many small round structures. These tiny creatures are known as microbes or microbes. They are all around us and are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Microorganisms are classified into four groups:Protozoa: Protozoa ar
3 min read
Disease causing Microorganisms in Humans - Notes Class 8Disease-causing microorganisms in humans can be of different types such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa, etc. They enter the bodies of humans, plants, and animals, where they find hosts to inhabit. They rely on the host for nutrition. They start to multiply inside the host or human body and af
6 min read
Disease Causing By Microorganisms in Animals and in PlantsMicroorganisms are tiny living entities that cannot be observed with the naked eye. Some of these, called pathogens, have the potential to cause diseases. Depending on their nature, microorganisms can be either advantageous or detrimental to animals and plants. While some microbes assist in their gr
4 min read
Food Preservation - Definition, Importance and MethodsFood preservation is a smart method that has been employed since ancient times. Food is an essential requirement for living beings to exist. But food items perish very quickly. Our ancestors used basic items like salt and sugar to preserve food. Modern times use chemical methods and preservatives to
6 min read
Nitrogen Fixation and Nitrogen MetabolismNitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3) or related compounds. This process is primarily carried out by nitrogen-fixing bacteria, either in symbiotic relationships with plants or free-living in the soil. Abiotic processes, like lightning and industr
5 min read
Nitrogen CycleNitrogen cycle is the natural process by which atmospheric nitrogen is converted into various usable forms, like ammonia and nitrates, by bacteria for plant and animal consumption and then returned to the atmosphere through decomposition and denitrification, maintaining the nutrient balance in ecosy
6 min read
NCERT Notes Class 8 Science Chapter 2: Microorganisms: Friend and FoeNCERT Notes for Class 8 Science Chapter-2: Microorganisms: Friend and Foe: Organisms that can be seen only through a microscope are known as Microorganisms or Microbes. These microorganisms are so small in size that they cannot be seen with the unaided eye. Some of these, such as the fungus that gro
6 min read
Chapter 3- Coal And Petroleum
Chapter 4 - Combustion And Flame
What is Combustion? and Types of Combustion - NCERT Class-8 NotesCombustion is a chemical process that involves the rapid reaction of a substance with oxygen, releasing heat and light. The substance that reacts is called the fuel, and the source of oxygen is called the oxidizer. The fuel can be a solid, liquid, or gas, but it is usually a liquid or gas. The oxidi
8 min read
What is Flame and Structure of Flame - NCERT Class-8 NotesWhat is Flame and Structure of a Flame - NCERT Class-8 Notes: A flame is the visible part of a fire. It is a hot, glowing gas that produces light and heat. Flames are usually caused by a chemical reaction between a fuel and an oxidizer. The fuel is typically a hydrocarbon, such as wood, gas, or oil.
7 min read
What is a Fuel? and Effects of Burning Fuels - NCERT Class-8 NotesWhat is a Fuel? and Fuel Efficiency Burning of Fuels Leads to Harmful Products- Class 8 NCERT Revision Notes: Fuel is a substance that releases energy when burned. Fuels are used to power vehicles, generate electricity, and heat homes and businesses. There are many different types of fuels, includin
8 min read
Chapter 5 - Conservation of Plants and Animals
What are the Consequences of Deforestation?Deforestation involves the large-scale removal of forests, leading to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. It increases greenhouse gas emissions, contributing significantly to climate change. The removal of trees causes soil erosion and degrades soil fertility, impacting agriculture. It can
6 min read
Conservation of Forest and WildlifeConservation of Forests and Wildlife is important as humans have vastly altered the Earth's flora and fauna. Wildlife contributes significantly to the stability of our environment by being directly or indirectly involved in natural processes. Each living organism is equally important in the food cha
9 min read
Biosphere Reserve - Zones and Their ImportanceBiosphere Reserves are protected areas that aim to conserve the biodiversity of a particular region while promoting sustainable development. The biosphere reserve zones are the core area, buffer zone, and transition zone. There are 18 biosphere reserves in India. Examples of biosphere reserves in th
6 min read
What is Flora and Fauna?Life in Temperate grasslands is described as having grasses as the prevailing vegetation. Trees and huge bushes are missing. Temperatures differ more from summer to winter, and how much precipitation is less in calm prairies Temperate grasslands have sweltering summers and cold winters. Precipitatio
4 min read
Endemic Species - Characteristics, Types and ExamplesSpecies that are exclusive to one area and not found anywhere else in the world are known as endemic species. As an illustration, Polar bears are unique to polar regions and are not found anywhere else in the globe. When they were in captivity, people introduced them, which is why they have occasion
7 min read
Wildlife SanctuaryThe wildlife sanctuary is a protected land area for the conservation and preservation of wildlife and their natural habitats. These areas are established to provide a protected environment, where various plant and animal species can thrive without any human disturbance. These wildlife sanctuaries ha
7 min read
National ParkFor the conservation of plants and animals, there are widely available biospheres, sanctuaries, and national parks across the world. The biosphere is the area of the world where there are living things that can support life. The term "biosphere reserve" refers to a larger protected area that aims to
5 min read
Migration in Animals, Birds, and FishesMigration, in biology, is the movement of animals from one location to another. Animals migrate looking for resources such as food, water, or favorable reproductive grounds. It is a common behavior seen in many species, including fish, birds, insects, and mammals. There are many types of migration l
6 min read
NCERT Notes for Class 8 Recycling of PaperThe conservation of plants and animals is crucial, therefore taking care of the same can save our ecosystem and can make it more sustainable and healthier for further generations. Recycling paper is one of the useful ways to contribute to this cause. We find waste matters on a large scale, recycling
3 min read
ReforestationWithout woods, life on Earth would not be possible. As the planet's lungs, the forests and oceans play a critical role in the fight against climate change by absorbing 20 billion tonnes of CO2 annually. The principal gas that causes the greenhouse effect and is mostly to blame for global warming is
10 min read
Red Data BookRed Data Book, back in history between 1961 and 1964, came into existence due to a search conducted by a Russian biologist. It is a Russian-origin name of a publication that deals particularly with endangered biological species. It provides complete information from a research point of view of all t
6 min read
NCERT Notes for Class 8 Science Chapter 5: Conservation of Plants and AnimalsNCERT Notes for Class 8 Science Chapter - 5: Conservation of Plants and Animals: Plants and animals play integral roles in sustaining life on Earth. They contribute to vital ecological processes such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and maintaining the overall health of ecosystems. However, human a
9 min read
Chapter 6 - Reproduction In Animals
Chapter 7- Reaching The Age Of Adolescence
Difference Between Adolescence and PubertyUnderstanding the difference between adolescence and puberty is important for grasping human development. Adolescence refers to the transitional stage from childhood to adulthood, encompassing physical, psychological, and social changes. Puberty, a key aspect of adolescence, involves biological chan
6 min read
Role of Hormones in Initiating Reproductive FunctionReaching adolescence is a critical stage of human development that brings significant physical and emotional changes. One of the most prominent changes that occur during this period is the activation of reproductive function, which is primarily regulated by hormones. Hormones are chemicals that act
7 min read
How Reproduction is Happening in Humans?Humans are sexually reproducing organisms. They produce gametes containing genetic material that form the zygote and develop into offspring. The process of reproduction in humans includes the development of gametes (gametogenesis), which are sperm cells in males and egg cells in females, the transfe
7 min read
HormonesGrowing up is a normal part of life. Adolescence is the stage of life when the body undergoes changes that lead to reproductive maturity. Around age 11, adolescence begins, and it lasts until 18 or 19. Adolescents are also referred to as 'teenagers' because this period encompasses the 'teens' (13 to
7 min read
Role of Hormones in Completing the Life History of Insects and FrogsThe role of hormones in completing the life history of insects and frogs involves regulating developmental stages such as metamorphosis, growth, reproduction, and behaviour. The hormones are chemical messengers that play an important role in the life cycle of insects and frogs.In frogs, the hormone
7 min read
Reaching The Age Of Adolescence - Reproductive HealthAdolescence, derived from the Latin adolescere, which means "to grow up," is a stage of physical and psychological human development that generally occurs between puberty and legal adulthood (age of majority). Adolescence is most closely associated with the adolescent years, though its physical, psy
10 min read
NCERT Notes Science for Class 8 Chapter - 7: Reaching The Age of AdolescenceNCERT Notes for Class 8 Science Chapter - 7: Reaching The Age of Adolescence: Growing up is a natural process. Growth begins from the day one is born. But upon crossing the age of 10 or 11, there is a sudden spurt in growth which becomes noticeable. The changes taking place in the body are part of g
7 min read
Chapter 8 - Force And Pressure
Push and Pull ForceA push force or pull force is a force upon an object arising from the object's or body’s interaction with another object. A push or pull only exists as a result of an interaction, like when a body, an object or a material is either pushed or pulled, which is termed as a force. A force due to action
11 min read
Interaction of ForcesBefore we explore how force can affect the state of motion of a body, let’s first look at what force is. Force is an interaction between two or more bodies that, when unopposed, causes a change in the state of motion of an object.By the definition of force, it is clear that force is something that c
9 min read
Exploring ForcesA force is a push or pull upon a body of any mass resulting from the body's interaction with another body. Whenever there is an interaction between two bodies, there is a force upon each of the bodies. This article will discuss what force is, exploring forces, types of forces, and the effect of forc
5 min read
Change in State of MotionIn science, a push or pull of an entity is identified as a Force. The interaction between two objects arises from the force. Force has both magnitude and direction. The strength of a force is articulated in magnitude. Force brings about an altar in the direction or state of motion of a body. Charact
11 min read
Contact and Non Contact ForcesContact and Non-Contact Forces are the two main types of forces. Contact Force is a force that acts between objects in contact with each other. For example, Contact force can be experienced when an object is sliding on a surface, due to frictional force. However, Non-Contact Force does not require a
7 min read
What is Pressure?Have you ever thought about why a needle is so thin, why fence spikes are pointed, or why a hammer's head is flat? It’s all about pressure. Pressure is the force applied to a specific area. A needle’s sharp tip concentrates the force, allowing it to easily pierce fabric. If it were blunt, the force
7 min read
Atmospheric PressureAtmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of the air above a given point on Earth's surface. It is a crucial aspect of atmospheric science and has various implications for weather, aviation, and everyday life. Atmospheric Pressure is about 1.01325 Pascal at sea level. Our body itself i
13 min read
Chapter 9 - Friction