Biomes

Biodiversity is indeed normally greater in the lower latitudes as compared to the higher latitudes due to the presence of tropical rainforests, diverse ecosystems, and favourable climatic conditions. Along the mountain gradients, biodiversity is also normally greater in the lower altitudes as compared to the higher altitudes. This is because lower altitudes often have more stable climatic conditions, greater availability of resources, and a wider range of habitats. Both statements are accurate in highlighting the pattern of biodiversity distribution across latitudes and altitudes.

**Statement 1 is correct:** Butterflies are vital pollinators for many flowering plants. A decline in their population can lead to reduced pollination success, affecting fruit and seed production. This, in turn, can disrupt plant communities that rely on butterflies for pollination, potentially impacting entire ecosystems. **Statement 2 is incorrect:** While some butterfly species may interact with fungi, a decline in butterfly populations is unlikely to cause a drastic increase in fungal infections on cultivated plants. Factors like humidity, temperature, plant health, and fungicide use play a far more significant role in the spread of fungal diseases than butterfly populations. **Statement 3 is correct:** Butterflies are an essential part of the food web, serving as prey for wasps, spiders, birds, and other insectivorous species. A sharp decline in butterfly populations could negatively impact these predators, disrupting the ecological balance and potentially leading to cascading effects on biodiversity.