Previous Year Question

Megadiverse Countries are countries that contain a very large share of the world's biodiversity and possess a large number of endemic species. Generally, 17 countries are recognized as megadiverse countries.

Australia is one of these 17 megadiverse countries. Its long geographical isolation, enormous area and wide variety of habitats ranging from tropical rainforests to deserts, grasslands, temperate regions and marine ecosystems have contributed to its exceptionally high biodiversity.

Australia is estimated to contain around 600,000–700,000 species. Approximately 84% of its plant species, 83% of its mammals and 45% of its birds are endemic. It also possesses exceptionally high reptile diversity and endemism.

Thus, not only high species richness but also a very high degree of endemism places Australia among the world's major megadiverse countries.