Difference Between Flora and Fauna

Flora and Fauna are two terms that are required to differentiate the living organisms (plants and animals) that are present in a particular ecosystem or geographical region. Almost 30% of the Earth is covered with forests and these forests are home to 80% of the world’s terrestrial animals. There are a total of 8.7 million species of flora and fauna in the world, and India ranks 10th in the richness of flora and fauna. For more information regarding the Flora and Fauna their Differences and their advantages have been discussed in the article below.

Define Flora

Flora is a wide variety of plants, ranging from simple single-celled organisms like algae to complex and towering trees found in the forest. Plants have a crucial role in sustaining life on our planet. By engaging in photosynthesis, they transform carbon dioxide and sunlight into oxygen and glucose, a process of immense significance for the survival of nearly all living beings.

There are an estimated 391,000 species of plants known to science, according to a report by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This number includes flowering plants, conifers, ferns, and other plant types. However, the exact number of species can vary as new species are discovered and classified, and some may become extinct.

Define Fauna

Fauna is a wide range of animal life found on the earth. From microorganisms like bacteria to large mammals like elephants. Animals also serve a critical ecological role, as pollinators, predators, and prey within the food webs. They play a significant part in maintaining biodiversity.

There are approximately 8.7 million species of fauna (animals) on Earth, according to a widely cited study published in 2011. This estimate includes both discovered and yet-to-be-discovered species. Among these, around 1.2 million species have been formally described by scientists, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and other invertebrates.

Difference between Flora and Fauna

Flora comprises all the plant life while Fauna comprises animal life of various species. Flora is the main producer of the ecosystem while Fauna are the consumers. More Differences between Flora and Fauna on the basis of their study, lifestyle, mobility, habitant, functioning, and other aspects have been tabulated below.

Advantages of Flora and Fauna

Both the Flora and Fauna in any ecosystem are very important and offer many benefits. They are key parts of the natural world, helping to keep the environment balanced and healthy. Protecting and taking care of them is essential for keeping our planet in good shape. Without a healthy mix of plants and animals, ecosystems can suffer, which affects everything from air quality to climate stability. So, it’s important to preserve these living things to ensure a healthy and functioning planet for everyone.

Advantages of Flora

Flora which refers to the collection of plants has numerous advantages that are essential for the proper functioning of the ecosystem.

1. The flora helps in oxygen production with the help of photosynthesis, which is very important for the survival of aerobic organisms.
2. It also helps in food production, as many of the plants are the direct source of food for humans and animals.
3.  Help in providing Habitat and shelter to the fauna. Also helps in maintenance of the biodiversity.
4. Soil conservation, as the roots of the plants bind the soil reduces soil erosion.
5. Climate regulation, through the process of transpiration the plants release water vapors into the atmosphere which makes the atmosphere cooler.
6. The ecosystem benefits, the flora, and maintain and support various industries such as forestry, horticulture, and agriculture.

Advantages of Fauna

Fauna refers to the animals present in a particular region or habitat and has numerous advantages that contribute to the well functioning of the ecosystem.

1. The fauna represents a significant part of Earth’s biodiversity.
2. They help in the pollination and dispersal of seeds to support plant life.
3. Fauna (such as insect-eating birds, and predatory insects)helps in the regulation of the population of pests, that can harm the crops.
4. Nutrient cycling involves the decomposition of organic matter for making the soil more fertile.
5. They provide a source of food for predators helping to maintain the balance in an ecosystem.
6. It also plays a great role in maintaining the ecological balance as each animal species has its own function.

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