Explanation
The correct answer is (b) Western Ghats.
The Western Ghats is a recognized biodiversity hotspot in India. It is a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of the Indian subcontinent, spanning several states, including Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. The Western Ghats is known for its rich biodiversity, encompassing diverse ecosystems such as rainforests, grasslands, and montane forests.
The region is home to numerous endemic species of plants and animals, many of which are unique to the Western Ghats. It is recognized as one of the eight "hottest hotspots" of biodiversity in the world, as designated by Conservation International. The Western Ghats has significant ecological importance and is considered a globally significant biodiversity region.
While other options mentioned in the question, such as the Gulf of Mannar, Pachmarhi, and Sunderbans, also have ecological importance, the Western Ghats specifically holds the status of being a recognized biodiversity hotspot in India.
