Environment Studies

Subject code:
Chapter 2 – Ecology and Ecosystem
 Specific Objectives
2.1 Define ecology & eco-system.
2.2 Illustrate the water cycle.
2.3 Illustrate the carbon cycle.
2.4 Illustrate the nitrogen cycle.
2.5 Illustrate the oxygen cycle.
2.6 Define food chains and food webs.
2.7 Define Biodiversity, biomass, bioconcentration and bio magnification
2.8 Describe Terrestrial and Aquatic ecosystem.
2.9 Define ecologically critical area (ECA), threatened species, endanger
species, extinct species, and exotic species.
2.10 List the ecologically critical areas of Bangladesh

Page 2
2.1 Ecology and Ecosystem

Page 3
 Ecology
• Ecology is the scientific study of the
relationships between living organisms
and their environment.
• It examines how living organisms
interact with each other and with their
physical and biological environment.
• Ecology studies individual organisms,
populations, communities, and
ecosystems, as well as their
interactions with each other and the
environment.
• It also explores how human activities
impact ecosystems and the
environment

https://c7.alamy.com/comp/PMTMDN/environment-ecology-
infographic-elements-environmental-risks-ecosystem-template-vector- Page 4
illustration-PMTMDN.jpg
Video

Page 5
Example of Ecological study levels

https://byjus.com/biology/ecology/
Page 6
 Ecosystem
• An ecosystem is a specific, functioning unit of
interacting organisms and their environment.
• It includes all living organisms (biotic factors)
and the physical and chemical components
of their environment (abiotic factors).
• Ecosystems can vary in size and complexity,
from a small pond to a vast ocean or a whole
biome.
• They are characterized by the flow of energy
and the cycling of nutrients through the living
and nonliving components.
• Ecosystems can be studied from different
perspectives, including their structure,
function, and dynamic
Page 7
 Few example of ecosystem
1. Forest Ecosystem: A forest ecosystem includes all the living organisms (such as trees, animals, birds,
insects, and microorganisms) and the non-living components of the environment (such as soil, water,
air, and minerals) found in a forest. The forest ecosystem plays a crucial role in regulating climate,
producing oxygen, storing carbon, and providing habitat for wildlife.
2. Marine Ecosystem: A marine ecosystem includes all the living organisms (such as fish, whales,
dolphins, and plankton) and the non-living components of the environment (such as seawater, sunlight,
and minerals) found in the ocean. Marine ecosystems are the largest ecosystems on Earth and
provide numerous benefits to humans, including food, medicine, and recreation.
3. Grassland Ecosystem: A grassland ecosystem includes all the living organisms (such as grasses,
herbivores, and predators) and the non-living components of the environment (such as soil, water, and
sunlight) found in a grassland. Grasslands are important ecosystems that provide habitat for many
species, regulate climate, and support agriculture and grazing.
4. Desert Ecosystem: A desert ecosystem includes all the living organisms (such as cacti, snakes, and
lizards) and the non-living components of the environment (such as sand, rocks, and heat) found in a
desert. Deserts are harsh ecosystems with extreme temperatures and limited water, but they are also
home to many adapted species and provide valuable resources to humans
Page 8
In summary, ecology focuses on the relationships between living organisms and their environment,
while ecosystems refer to specific, functioning units of interacting organisms and their environment.
Ecology is a broader field that encompasses the study of ecosystems and other ecological systems.

https://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-ecology-and-vs-ecosystem/ Page 9
2.2 Water Cycle

Page 10
 Water Cycle
◉ The water cycle, also
known as the
hydrologic cycle, refers
to the continuous
movement of water on,
above, and below the
Earth's surface.

Page 11
 Key points of Water Cycle
• Evaporation: The sun's energy heats water in oceans, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water, causing it to turn into water
vapor and rise into the atmosphere.

• Transpiration: Plants and trees also release water vapor into the atmosphere through tiny pores in their leaves, a process
known as transpiration.

• Condensation: As water vapor rises into the atmosphere, it cools and condenses into tiny droplets, forming clouds.
• Precipitation: When the droplets in clouds become heavy enough, they fall back to the Earth as precipitation, which can take
the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

• Infiltration: Some precipitation is absorbed by the ground and infiltrates into soil and rock formations.
• Runoff: Some precipitation flows over the land and into streams, rivers, and other bodies of water, eventually reaching the
ocean.

• Groundwater flow: Some infiltrated water seeps deep into the ground and becomes groundwater, which can flow through
underground rock formations and eventually resurface through springs or wells.

• Water storage: Water is stored in various forms, including oceans, lakes, rivers, glaciers, and underground aquifers.
Page 12
Fig 2: Water Cycle
Video

Page 13
2.3 Carbon Cycle

Page 14
 Carbon Cycle
◉ The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon is exchanged and cycled between living
organisms, the atmosphere, and the Earth's crust.

◉ Carbon is one of the most important elements for life on Earth, as it forms the building
blocks of organic molecules such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

◉ Carbon enters the atmosphere through natural processes such as respiration, volcanic
eruptions, and the decay of organic matter. Human activities such as burning fossil fuels
and deforestation have also significantly increased carbon emissions into the atmosphere.

◉ Once in the atmosphere, carbon can be absorbed by the oceans, where it can be stored
for thousands of years. The oceans act as a sink for carbon dioxide, but this also causes
the water to become more acidic, which can have negative impacts on marine life.

Page 15
 Carbon Cycle (Contd.)
◉ Carbon is also absorbed by plants through photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants
convert carbon dioxide into organic molecules. When animals consume plants or other animals,
they also consume the carbon-containing organic molecules. When these organisms die, the carbon
is released back into the atmosphere through the process of decomposition.

◉ The carbon cycle plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate and maintaining the balance
of carbon in the atmosphere.

◉ Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, are causing an imbalance in the
carbon cycle by releasing large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. This increase in atmospheric
CO2 is contributing to global warming and climate change.

◉ It is important to reduce our carbon emissions and find ways to mitigate the impacts of climate
change. This can be achieved through a combination of strategies such as increasing the use of
renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and reducing deforestation, soil
conservation etc.
Page 16
Illustration of Carbon Cycle

Page 17
Fig 3: Carbon Cycle
Source:
http://www.oregonlive.com/environment/index.ssf/2009/12/federal_forests_could_be_ask_t.html
Page 18
Video

Page 19
2.4 NITROGEN CYCLE

Page 20
 Nitrogen Cycle

◉ The nitrogen cycle refers to the movement of nitrogen through the Earth's atmosphere, land,
and living organisms.

◉ Nitrogen is an essential element for life on Earth, as it is a key component of amino acids,
which form the building blocks of proteins.

◉ Nitrogen gas makes up the majority of the Earth's atmosphere, but it is not easily usable by
most living organisms. Instead, nitrogen fixation, the process by which certain bacteria and
lightning convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonium, is required to make nitrogen
available for plants and other organisms.

◉ Once nitrogen has been fixed, it can be taken up by plants and used to make proteins and
other organic molecules. Animals then consume the plants and incorporate the nitrogen into
their own tissues. When plants and animals die, decomposers such as bacteria break down
the organic matter and release the nitrogen back into the soil as ammonium.
Page 21
 Nitrogen Cycle (Contd.)
◉ The ammonium can then be converted to nitrite and nitrate through the
process of nitrification, which is carried out by certain bacteria. These forms of
nitrogen can be taken up by plants and used to make proteins, and the cycle
continues.

◉ Nitrogen can also be lost from the cycle through denitrification, which is the
process by which bacteria convert nitrate back into atmospheric nitrogen. This
process can occur in soils and aquatic environments with low oxygen levels.

◉ The nitrogen cycle plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nitrogen
in the environment, and is important for the growth and survival of living
organisms.

◉ Human activities such as the use of fertilizers and the burning of fossil fuels
have significantly altered the nitrogen cycle, leading to issues such as eutrophication
eutrophication (nutrient pollution) and climate change. It is therefore important (nutrient pollution)
to manage nitrogen use in agriculture and other industries to mitigate these
impacts. Page 22
Illustration of Nitrogen Cycle

Page 23
Fig 4: Nitrogen Cycle
Video

Page 24
 Comparison: Nitrogen
Cycle vs Carbon Cycle

Page 25
Source: https://www.differencebetween.com/
2.5 Oxygen Cycle

Page 26
 Oxygen Cycle

◉ The oxygen cycle refers to the movement of oxygen through the Earth's atmosphere,
oceans, and living organisms. Oxygen is a critical element for life on Earth, as it is required
for respiration, the process by which organisms convert food into energy.

◉ Oxygen is produced through photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants and
certain bacteria convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and organic molecules.

◉ This oxygen is then released into the atmosphere, where it can be taken up by animals and
other organisms for respiration.

◉ Oxygen can also be dissolved in water, and is important for the survival of aquatic
organisms. Photosynthesis by aquatic plants and algae also contributes to the oxygen
content in water.

Page 27
 Oxygen Cycle (Contd.)

◉ Once oxygen has been used by living organisms, it can be released back into the atmosphere
through respiration, or through decomposition of organic matter. Oxygen can also be consumed
through processes such as combustion, which releases carbon dioxide and other gases into the
atmosphere.

◉ The oxygen cycle plays a critical role in regulating the Earth's climate and supporting the survival of
living organisms.

◉ Human activities such as deforestation, burning of fossil fuels, and industrial processes have
significantly impacted the oxygen cycle. Deforestation, for example, reduces the amount of oxygen
produced through photosynthesis, while burning of fossil fuels increases the amount of carbon
dioxide released into the atmosphere, which can lead to changes in atmospheric composition and
impact oxygen availability. It is therefore important to manage these activities and find ways to
reduce our impact on the oxygen cycle to ensure the sustainability of our planet.
Page 28
Illustration of Oxygen Cycle

Page 29
Fig 5: Oxygen Cycle
Stages in Oxygen Cycle
Stage-1: All green plants during
the process of photosynthesis,
release oxygen back into the
atmosphere as a by-product.

Stage-2: All aerobic organisms use

free oxygen for respiration.

Stage-3: Animals exhale Carbon

dioxide back into the atmosphere
which is again used by the plants
during photosynthesis. Now oxygen
is balanced within the atmosphere. Page 30
Video

Page 31
2.6 Food Chains And
Food Webs

Page 32
 Food Chain

◉ Food chains and food webs are ways of

describing the transfer of energy and
nutrients in an ecosystem.

◉ A food chain is a linear sequence of

organisms, where each organism is eaten
by the next organism in the chain. For
example, a simple food chain might
consist of grass (producer) being eaten by
a rabbit (herbivore), which is then eaten by
a fox (carnivore).

Fig 6: Food Chain

Page 33
Illustration of Food Chain

Page 34
 Food Web

◉ A food web is a more complex system that

includes multiple interconnected food
chains. It shows how different organisms in
an ecosystem are linked through multiple
feeding relationships.

For example, in a food web, the grass might be

eaten by multiple herbivores such as rabbits,
deer, and insects, and each of these herbivores
might be eaten by different predators such as
foxes, wolves, and birds of prey.

Fig 7: Food Web Page 35

Illustration of Food Web

Page 36
Video- Food Web vs Food Chain

Page 37
 Comparison: Food Chain vs Food Web
Food Chain
In Food Chain there is a straight line
from producers to first consumers to
second consumers to third consumers
An organism at higher level in food chain
eats a specific organism at lower level of
food chain
Food chain is a simplified version of
Food Web
Single food chain is unstable in an
ecosystem.
Food Web
A multitude of networks showing the flow
of energy
An organism of a higher trophic level has
access to more members of a lower
trophic level.
Food Web is what happens in reality. A
Food Web contains many Food Chains.
It has a role in improving the adaptability
and competitiveness of an organism.
Page 38
 Biodiversity, Biomass,
2.7 Bioconcentration And
Bio Magnification

Page 39
 Biodiversity, Biomass, Bioconcentration And
Bio Magnification

Biodiversity, biomass, bioconcentration, and biomagnification are all

important concepts in ecology that describe the distribution and concentration of living organisms
and their associated chemicals in an ecosystem.

Page 40
 Biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms in an ecosystem, including different species,
genetic diversity, and ecological diversity. High levels of biodiversity are important for the
resilience and stability of an ecosystem, as different organisms play different roles and contribute
to the overall functioning of the ecosystem.

Play the video to learn more

Page 41
 Biodiversity examples -
◉ Ecosystem Diversity: refers to the variety of ecosystems and habitats found on Earth. For
example, tropical rainforests, coral reefs, deserts, grasslands, and wetlands all have unique plant
and animal species and provide important ecological services.

◉ Species Diversity: refers to the variety of different species within an ecosystem. For example, the
Amazon rainforest is home to an estimated 16,000 tree species, which provides habitat for a wide
variety of animals.

◉ Genetic Diversity: refers to the variety of different genes within a single species. For example, wild
populations of crops such as corn, rice, and wheat contain a wide range of genetic diversity that is
important for breeding new varieties with improved yields and resistance to pests and diseases.

◉ Functional Diversity: refers to the variety of different ecological functions that species perform
within an ecosystem. For example, bees are important pollinators that help to maintain plant
diversity and productivity, while predators such as wolves help to control herbivore populations
and maintain balance in ecosystems.
Page 42
 Biomass
Biomass refers to the total mass of living organisms in an ecosystem, usually measured in terms
of the weight of all living organisms such as plants and animals, as well as dead organic matter
such as fallen leaves, decaying wood, and animal waste. in a given area. Biomass can be used to
estimate the productivity and energy flow in an ecosystem, as more biomass indicates a greater
amount of energy stored in living organisms.

• Biomass can be used as a source of

energy, either directly through
combustion, or indirectly through the

https://marketbusinessnews.com/financial-
production of biofuels such as
ethanol and biodiesel.
• Biomass is considered a renewable
energy source because the plants
and other organic materials that

glossary/biomass/
make it up can be regrown or
replaced over time.
Page 43
Biomass Play the video to learn more

Page 44
 Examples of Biomass
◉ Forests: Trees are a major source of biomass. Forests can contain a large amount of living and dead
organic matter in the form of leaves, branches, and fallen logs. This biomass can be harvested for use
as fuel or raw material for making products such as paper and furniture.

◉ Agricultural Crops: Plants grown for food, fiber, and biofuels can also be a source of biomass.
Examples include corn, soybeans, wheat, and sugarcane. These crops can be harvested and
processed to produce biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel.

◉ Aquatic Systems: Algae and other aquatic plants can also be a source of biomass. In some cases,
algae can be grown in ponds or tanks and harvested for use as fuel or for other purposes such as
animal feed.

◉ Municipal Waste: Municipal solid waste, or trash, is another potential source of biomass. Organic
matter in the form of food waste and yard trimmings can be collected and processed into compost or
used to produce biogas through anaerobic digestion.
Page 45
 Bioconcentration
Bioconcentration refers to the accumulation of chemicals in the tissues of living organisms, typically through
exposure to contaminated water, soil, or air. This process can occur when an organism is exposed to a chemical
at a higher concentration than that found in its surrounding environment. Bioconcentration can have negative
impacts on the health of organisms and can also lead to the biomagnification of these chemicals.

Play the video to learn more

Page 46
 Bioconcentration examples
◉ Mercury in Fish: Mercury is a toxic metal that can be released into the environment through industrial
processes and natural sources such as volcanoes. When mercury enters water bodies, it can be
converted into a form called methylmercury, which can accumulate in the tissues of fish and other
aquatic organisms. This can lead to bioconcentration of methylmercury in the tissues of larger fish that
eat smaller fish and can ultimately pose a risk to human health if these fish are consumed.
◉ DDT in Birds of Prey: DDT is a pesticide that was widely used in the mid-20th century to control
insects such as mosquitoes. However, DDT was found to be harmful to a number of bird species,
including eagles and falcons, which were found to have high levels of DDT in their tissues as a result of
eating contaminated prey. This led to declines in bird populations and ultimately led to the banning of
DDT in many countries.
◉ PCBs in Marine Mammals: PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) are a group of chemicals that were used
in industrial processes and electrical equipment. PCBs can enter the environment through releases
from manufacturing and disposal sites and can be transported long distances through air and water.
When PCBs enter the food chain, they can accumulate in the tissues of marine mammals such as
whales and seals, which can lead to reproductive and immune system problems.

Page 47
 Bioconcentration examples in Bangladesh
Arsenic in Groundwater: Arsenic is a toxic metal that can occur naturally in
groundwater in some regions of the world, including Bangladesh. Arsenic
contamination of groundwater in Bangladesh has been a major public health
concern, as millions of people rely on groundwater for drinking and irrigation. When
consumed over time, arsenic can accumulate in the tissues of the body and lead to
a range of health problems including skin lesions, cancers, and cardiovascular
disease.

Page 48
Biomagnification
It refers to the increase
in concentration of
certain chemicals, such
as pollutants, as they
move up the food chain.
As organisms at higher
trophic levels consume
organisms at lower
trophic levels, they
accumulate the
chemicals present in the
tissues of the organisms
they consume. This can
lead to the concentration
of these chemicals in the
tissues of top predators,
which can have harmful
impacts on their health
and the health of the
ecosystem as a whole.
Page 49
Biomagnification-Play the video to learn more

Page 50
Bio accumulation Vs Biomagnification

Page 51
Fig 8: Bio centration & Biomagnification
 Summary

Knowledge of biodiversity, biomass, bioconcentration, and biomagnification is important

for sustainability because these concepts are interconnected and have
significant impacts on the health of ecosystems and the planet.

They are all important concepts in ecology and environmental science because they
provide –
◉ critical insights into the functioning of ecosystems
◉ potential risks associated with environmental contaminants.

Understanding these concepts is essential for sustainable management of natural

resources and protection of human health and the environment.
Page 52
2.8 Terrestrial And Aquatic Ecosystem
Terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are two broad categories of ecosystems that differ in
their location, physical characteristics, and the types of organisms that inhabit them.

Page 53
 Terrestrial Ecosystem

◉ Terrestrial ecosystems
refer to those found on
land, including forests,
grasslands, deserts, and
tundra. These ecosystems
are characterized by their
soil type, topography,
climate, and the plants and
animals that inhabit them.
Terrestrial ecosystems play
important roles in
regulating the Earth's
climate, nutrient cycles,
and water cycle, and
provide a wide range of
resources for human use.

Page 54
Video

Page 55
 Aquatic Ecosystem
◉ Aquatic ecosystems, on the other
hand, are found in bodies of water,
such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and
wetlands. These ecosystems are
characterized by their salinity, depth,
flow rate, and water quality, and
support a diverse range of aquatic
plants and animals.

◉ Aquatic ecosystems are important for

maintaining global biodiversity,
supporting fisheries and other aquatic
resources, and regulating the Earth's
climate and biogeochemical cycles.

Page 56
Video

Page 57
 Ecologically Critical Area
2.9 (Eca), Threatened Species,
Endanger Species, Extinct
Species, And Exotic Species

Page 58
 Ecologically Critical Area

◉ An ecologically critical area is a term used to describe a geographical area that is of

significant ecological importance due to its biodiversity, unique ecosystem, or role in
regulating environmental processes.
◉ These areas may include wetlands, forests, coral reefs, or other habitats that are home to
rare, threatened, or endangered species, or provide important ecosystem services such as
carbon sequestration, water filtration, or nutrient cycling.
◉ The preservation and protection of ecologically critical areas is important for maintaining the
health and functioning of ecosystems, and for ensuring the sustainability of natural resources
and human livelihoods.

Page 59
 Threatened Species

◉ Threatened species are species of plants and animals that are at risk of becoming
endangered or extinct.
◉ These species face significant population declines or habitat loss due to various factors such
as habitat destruction, overexploitation, pollution, climate change, and invasive species.
◉ When a species becomes threatened, it is placed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened
Species, which assesses its conservation status and the degree of threat it faces.
◉ Conservation efforts such as habitat restoration, captive breeding, and legal protection are
often implemented to prevent these species from becoming extinct. Protecting threatened
species is essential for maintaining biodiversity, preserving ecosystem services, and
ensuring the long-term sustainability of our planet

Page 60
 Endangered Species

◉ Endangered species are species of plants and animals that are at an extremely high risk of
becoming extinct in the near future.
◉ These species are categorized as endangered due to a significant population decline or loss
of habitat, usually caused by human activities such as habitat destruction, hunting, and
pollution. When a species is classified as endangered, it is considered to be one of the most
critically threatened species in the world.
◉ Conservation efforts to save endangered species may include habitat restoration, captive
breeding, and legal protection.
◉ Governments, NGOs, and the general public play an important role in conserving
endangered species, as they provide funding for conservation projects, conduct research,
and raise awareness about the plight of these species.
◉ The conservation of endangered species is critical for maintaining the biodiversity of our
planet and for preserving the ecological services that they provide, such as pollination,
nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration.
Page 61
Video: Endangered Species

Page 62
 Extinct Species

◉ Extinct species are species of plants and animals that no longer exist on Earth.
◉ These species have completely disappeared from the planet, and no individuals
of the species remain alive.
◉ Extinction can occur naturally, but it is most often caused by human activities
such as habitat destruction, hunting, and pollution. Once a species becomes
extinct, it cannot be brought back to life, and its loss can have far-reaching
ecological consequences.
◉ The extinction of a single species can cause a ripple effect throughout an entire
ecosystem, affecting other species that depend on it for food or other
resources.
◉ The preservation of endangered and threatened species is critical for
preventing future extinctions and for maintaining the biodiversity and health of
our planet's ecosystems

Page 63
 Exotic Species

◉ Exotic species, also known as invasive species, are non-native species that have been
introduced to an ecosystem and have negative impacts on the environment, economy, or
human health.
◉ These species can be introduced intentionally or unintentionally, often through human
activities such as international trade, transport, and tourism. Once established, invasive
species can outcompete native species for resources, alter nutrient cycling, and disrupt
ecosystem functions. They can also cause economic losses by damaging crops, property,
and infrastructure.
◉ Controlling invasive species can be challenging and costly, and prevention through early
detection and rapid response is often the most effective approach.
◉ The introduction of exotic species is a major threat to biodiversity and the long-term
sustainability of ecosystems, and it is important to manage them to minimize their negative
impacts. This can be done through strategies such as biosecurity measures, control and
eradication programs, and public awareness and education campaigns.

Page 64
Extinct vs Endangered vs Threatened

Page 65
 Activity - identify the category of these animals
This animal belongs This animal belongs to? This animal belongs to?
to? A Threatened Species A Threatened Species
A Threatened Species B Endanger Species B Endanger Species
B Endanger Species C Extinct Species C Extinct Species
C Extinct Species

Page 66
 Activity - identify the category of these animals
This animal belongs This animal belongs to? This animal belongs to?
to? A Threatened Species A Threatened Species
A Threatened Species B Endanger Species B Endanger Species
B Endanger Species C Extinct Species C Extinct Species
C Extinct Species

Page 67
2.10 Ecologically Critical Areas
Of Bangladesh

Page 68
 Ecologically Critical Areas Of Bangladesh
◉ Ecologically critical areas (ECAs) in Bangladesh are areas that are recognized as
ecologically sensitive and important for the conservation of biodiversity and ecological
processes. The Government of Bangladesh has identified and designated a number of ECAs
across the country, based on their ecological significance and the threats they face.

Page 69
Page 70
 Sundarbans
• One of the major ECAs in Bangladesh is the
Sundarbans, a vast mangrove forest located in the
southwestern part of the country.
• The Sundarbans is the biggest delta, back water and
tidal phenomenon of the region and thus provides
diverse habitats for several hundreds of aquatic,
terrestrial and amphibian species

• The Sundarbans is home to a wide range of flora and

fauna, including the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodile,
and various species of birds and fish.
• Sundarbans is under threat from habitat loss, poaching,
and climate change.

© Nicky de Battista Page 71

https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/798/gallery/
 Cox’s Bazar- Teknaf Peninsula
ECAs in Bangladesh include the Cox's Bazar-Teknaf
Peninsula, which is important for its coastal and marine
biodiversity, and the Satchari National Park, which is
home to a variety of plant and animal species.

https://dailyasianage.com/news/185149/teknaf- Page 72
peninsula-ecosystem-beach
 St Martin Island - the environmental and social issues
Overcrowding: Saint Martin Island is a popular tourist destination and as a result, the island is overcrowded with
tourists during peak season. This has put a strain on the island's limited resources and infrastructure, such as
water and waste management systems.

Deforestation and soil erosion: The island has been subject to deforestation and soil erosion due to human
activities such as agriculture, logging, and construction. This has led to loss of biodiversity, soil degradation, and
increased vulnerability to natural disasters.

Plastic pollution: The island faces a significant problem with plastic pollution, as waste management systems are
inadequate and there is no proper recycling infrastructure on the island. This has led to litter on beaches and in
the sea, which harms the local ecosystem and wildlife.

Coral reef destruction: Coral reefs around Saint Martin Island have been damaged due to activities such as
dynamite fishing, overfishing, and pollution. This has affected the island's marine ecosystem, including the fish
and other marine creatures that depend on the reefs.

Lack of basic amenities: Despite being a popular tourist destination, the island lacks basic amenities such as
electricity, running water, and proper sanitation facilities. This affects both the tourists visiting the island as well as
the local residents who live there year-round.
 Conservation measures by Bangladesh
Government-
The Bangladesh government has taken several conservation measures to protect important areas
of biodiversity, including Ecologically Critical Areas (ECAs). Some of these measures include:
1. Establishment of Protected Areas: The government has established several protected areas,
such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and game reserves, to conserve the country's
biodiversity. These protected areas cover important habitats and ecosystems, and are
managed by the government's Forest Department.
2. Conservation of Forests: The Bangladesh government has implemented several policies and
programs to conserve and manage its forests. These include the Bangladesh Forest Policy
(2016), the National Forest Inventory, and the Community-Based Forest Management
Program.
3. Protection of Wetlands: The government has identified and designated several wetlands as
important sites for conservation, such as the Ramsar sites. These wetlands provide habitat
for several migratory and resident bird species, and are also important for local livelihoods.

Page 74
 Ecologically Critical Areas Of Bangladesh
4. Regulation of Hunting and Wildlife Trade: The government has implemented laws and regulations to
regulate hunting and wildlife trade in Bangladesh. The Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, 2012,
prohibits hunting and trading of several endangered species, and provides for penalties for violations.

5. Awareness-raising and Community Engagement: The government has conducted several

awareness-raising campaigns and community engagement programs to increase public awareness
of the importance of biodiversity conservation. These programs have involved local communities,
NGOs, and other stakeholders in conservation efforts

The Government of Bangladesh has implemented a number of conservation measures to protect these
ECAs, including the establishment of protected areas, the enforcement of environmental laws and
regulations, and the promotion of sustainable land use practices. However, the conservation of
these areas remains a major challenge, particularly in the face of ongoing
development pressures and climate change impacts. Continued efforts are needed to
ensure the long-term protection and sustainability of these ecologically critical areas
in Bangladesh. Page 75
 References
◉ https://news.mongabay.com/2022/12/in-bangladesh-ecologically-critical-areas-exist-only-on-paper/
◉ https://www.dhakalawreview.org/blog/2022/07/revisiting-the-management-of-the-ecologically-critical-areas-of-bangladesh-
6022
◉ https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php/Ecologically_Critical_Area
◉ https://www.biologyonline.com/dictionary/exotic-species
◉ https://www.twinkl.co.in/teaching-wiki/extinct-animals
◉ https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/endangered-species/
◉ https://www.safeopedia.com/definition/3043/threatened-species
◉ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecologically_Critical_Area
◉https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/ecology/.
◉https://byjus.com/biology/ecosystem/
◉https://biologydictionary.net/ecosystem/
◉https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/water-cycle
◉https://www.worldatlas.com/the-water-cycle.html
◉https://www.khanacademy.org/science/biology/ecology/biogeochemical-cycles/a/the-carbon-cycle
◉https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/features/CarbonCycle/page1.php
 References
• https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frym.2019.00041
• https://byjus.com/biology/nitrogen-cycle/
• https://www.britannica.com/science/nitrogen-cycle
• https://byjus.com/biology/oxygen-cycle-environment/
• https://www.universetoday.com/61080/oxygen-cycle/
• https://www.ck12.org/biology/food-chain/lesson/Food-Chains-and-Food-Webs-Advanced-BIO-ADV/
• https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zbnnb9q/articles/zwbtxg
• https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/biodiversity/
• https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/biomass-energy/
• https://mercurypolicy.scripts.mit.edu/blog/?p=499
• https://www.environmentalpollution.in/ecosystem/aquatic-ecosystem-and-terrestrial-ecosystem-
explained-with-diagram/260
• https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fenvs.2021.692401/full
 Photo credits/resources
◉ Fig 1: https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/infographic-ecosystem-concept-with-tree_2640556.htm

◉ Fig 2: https://www.worldatlas.com/the-water-cycle.html

◉ Fig 3: https://www.khanacademy.org/science/biology/ecology/biogeochemical-cycles/a/the-carbon-cycle

◉ Fig 4: https://byjus.com/biology/nitrogen-cycle/

◉ Fig 5: https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/oxygen-cycle-diagram-science-education_39264773.htm

◉ Fig 6: https://www.ck12.org/biology/food-chain/lesson/Food-Chains-and-Food-Webs-Advanced-BIO-ADV/

◉ Fig 7: https://www.ck12.org/biology/food-chain/lesson/Food-Chains-and-Food-Webs-Advanced-BIO-ADV/

◉ Fig 8: https://sustainableecosystemsconceptmaplinks.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/screen-shot-2015-01-03-at-5-58-24-pm.png

◉ Fig 9: https://www.collegesearch.in/articles/terrestrial-ecosystem

◉ Fig 10: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/A-diagrammatic-representation-of-the-aquatic-ecosystem-The-ecosystem-includes-

the-lake_fig3_284868481

Page 78