1) Which of the following are benefits of Sacred Grooves?
1) Repository for various Ayurvedic medicines
2) Biodiversity Hotspots
3) Recharging aquifers
a. 1, 2
b. 2, 3
c. 1, 3
d. All of the above
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Answer
Explanation
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ANSWER: All of the above
Explanation:
- One of the most important traditional uses of sacred groves was that it acted as a repository for various Ayurvedic medicines.
- Other uses involved a source of replenishable resources like fruits and honey. However, in most sacred groves it was taboo to hunt or chop wood.
- The vegetation cover helps reduce soil erosion and prevents desertification, as in Rajasthan.
- The groves are often associated with ponds and streams, and meet water requirements of local communities. They sometimes help in recharging aquifers as well.
- In modern times, sacred groves have become biodiversity hotspots, as various species seek refuge in the areas due to progressive habitat destruction, and hunting.
- Sacred groves often contain plant and animal species that have become extinct in neighboring areas. They therefore harbor great genetic diversity.
- Besides this, sacred groves in urban landscapes act as "lungs" to the city as well, providing much needed vegetation cover.
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