General Knowledge Class 8 - Plants And-Animals Notes

Plants and Animals

Welcome to the chapter on Plants and Animals for Class 8. In this chapter, you will learn interesting facts about different types of plants and animals, their importance, and how they interact with each other and the environment. By the end of this chapter, you will be able to identify unique plants and animals, understand their roles, and appreciate biodiversity!

Introduction

Plants and animals are essential parts of our world. They provide us with food, oxygen, medicines, and help maintain balance in nature. Let’s explore some amazing facts and current information about them!

Interesting Facts About Plants

• The Amazon Rainforest is known as the "lungs of the Earth" because it produces a large amount of oxygen.
• Bamboo is the fastest-growing plant in the world.
• Some plants, like the Venus flytrap, eat insects!
• Medicinal plants like neem and tulsi are used in traditional medicine.
• Mangrove trees grow in salty water and protect coastlines from erosion.

Interesting Facts About Animals

• The blue whale is the largest animal on Earth.
• Honeybees communicate by dancing.
• Some animals, like chameleons, can change their color to blend in with their surroundings.
• The cheetah is the fastest land animal, running up to 120 km/h.
• Elephants are known for their intelligence and strong memory.

Plants and Animals in the News

• Many rare plants and animals are endangered due to habitat loss and pollution.
• Conservation projects are helping to protect tigers, rhinos, and other species in India and around the world.
• Scientists have discovered new species of plants and animals in remote forests and oceans.
• Plant-based diets are becoming popular for health and environmental reasons.

How Plants and Animals Help Us

• Plants give us oxygen, food, wood, and medicines.
• Animals provide us with food, clothing, and help in farming.
• Both plants and animals keep the environment clean and balanced.

Fun Activity: Biodiversity Hunt

Make a list of plants and animals you see in your neighborhood or school. Try to find out something special about each one!

Summary

• Plants and animals are important for life on Earth.
• There are many unique and interesting species.
• We must protect plants and animals to keep our planet healthy.

Practice Questions

1. Name two endangered animals found in India.
2. Which plant is known for its medicinal properties?
3. What is the fastest land animal?
4. Why are mangrove trees important?
5. How do honeybees communicate?

Challenge Yourself

• Research and write about a newly discovered plant or animal species.
• Make a poster showing ways to protect endangered plants and animals.

Did You Know?

• Some plants can live for thousands of years, like the bristlecone pine!
• Octopuses have three hearts!

Glossary

• Biodiversity: The variety of living things in an area.
• Endangered: At risk of disappearing forever.
• Medicinal: Used for making medicine.
• Conservation: Protecting plants, animals, and nature.

Answers to Practice Questions

1. Tiger, Indian rhinoceros (any two endangered animals).
2. Neem, tulsi (any medicinal plant).
3. Cheetah.
4. They protect coastlines and provide homes for many animals.
5. By dancing.

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Plants and animals make our world beautiful and healthy. Learn about them and help protect them!