How many hot spots have been identified in the world ?

Options

A. 10
B. 34
C. 20
D. 25

Answer

To answer the question "How many hot spots have been identified in the world?", we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Biodiversity Hotspots**:
- Biodiversity hotspots are regions that are rich in biological diversity but are also under significant threat from human activities. They contain a high number of endemic species (species that are not found anywhere else) and are critical for conservation efforts.

2. **Criteria for Hotspots**:
- To qualify as a biodiversity hotspot, a region must meet two strict criteria:
- It must contain at least 1,500 species of vascular plants as endemics.
- It must have lost at least 70% of its original habitat.

3. **Historical Context**:
- The concept of biodiversity hotspots was first proposed by Norman Myers in 1988. He identified tropical forests as key areas that needed conservation due to their rich biodiversity.

4. **Current Number of Hotspots**:
- As of now, there are 34 recognized biodiversity hotspots globally. However, it is noted that this number may have been updated to 36, but for the options provided in the question, 34 is the correct answer.

5. **Evaluating Options**:
- The options given were 10, 34, 20, and 25. Among these, 34 is the most accurate based on the current understanding of biodiversity hotspots.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the answer to the question is that **34 biodiversity hotspots have been identified in the world**.

### Final Answer:
**34**

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