हिंदी में पढ़ें
Basic
1. Biodiversity is described as –
(a) The range of different species in an environment
(b) The seasonal and daily changes in an environment
(c) The way species differ from one another
(d) The influence of physical factors on an environment
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2014]
Ans. (a) The range of different species in an environment
- Biodiversity is the variety of living things (plants and animals) found in an ecosystem.
- These species are grouped into different communities.
- To measure biodiversity, we use three categories: alpha (α), beta (β) and gamma (γ).
- This classification was created by Whittaker in 1960.
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2. Biodiversity means –
(a) Diverse kinds of plants and vegetation.
(b) Diverse kinds of animals.
(c) Diverse kinds of plants and animals in a particular area.
(d) Diverse kinds of exotic plants and animals.
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (c) Diverse kinds of plants and animals in a particular area.
- The variety of living things (plants and animals) in an environment is known as biodiversity.
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3. The most significant aspect of biodiversity is:
(a) Food
(b) Drug
(c) Industrial Use
(d) Maintenance of ecosystem
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (d) Maintenance of ecosystem
- Biodiversity is important for keeping the ecosystem in balance.
- It affects different species, groups of animals, and whole ecosystems.
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4. The destruction of biodiversity is due to:
(a) The lack of natural habitats for the organism
(b) Environmental pollution
(c) Destruction of forests
(d) All the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2002]
Ans. (d) All the above
- Humans are the main reason for the decline in biodiversity.
- The main threats to biodiversity include changes and destruction of habitats, introducing foreign species and genetically modified organisms, pollution, climate change, and overusing resources.
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5. Which of the following is NOT an example of an in-situ conservation strategy?
(a) Biosphere reserve
(b) Botanical garden
(c) National Park
(d) Sacred groves
[U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (b) Botanical garden
- Examples of ex-situ conservation are things like seed banks, zoos, and botanical gardens.
- Examples of in-situ conservation are national parks, sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, reserved forests, protected forests, and nature reserves.
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6. The main reason for the decrease in biodiversity is:
(a) Habitat pollution
(b) Introduction of exotic species
(c) Over exploitation
(d) Natural habitat destruction
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (d) Natural habitat destruction
- The destruction of natural habitats is the main cause of the decline in biodiversity.
- When these areas are changed, not only do the plant species suffer, but also the animal species connected to them.
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7. Which one of the following is the most important factor responsible for the decline of biodiversity?
(a) Genetic assimilation
(b) Controlling assimilation
(c) Destruction of habitat
(d) Controlling pests
[U.P.P.C.S (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (c) Destruction of habitat
- The destruction of habitats is one of the biggest dangers to diverse wildlife.
- For example, cutting down forests to make fields, filling in wetlands to build homes, and constructing dams that change the flow of rivers.
- Genetic assimilation is a process in which a physical trait, which only originally appeared when affected by the environment, is taken over by the genetic code so that it appears even when the environment does not affect it.
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8. The government of India in collaboration with the Norwegian Government has established a centre for Biodiversity Policy and Law at –
(a) Dehradun
(b) Chennai
(c) Shillong
(d) New Delhi
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2017]
Ans. (b) Chennai
- The Indian Government has partnered with the Norwegian Government to open a “Centre for Biodiversity Policy and Law” in the National Biodiversity Authority in Chennai.
- This centre will help develop expertise in biodiversity policies and laws, as well as increase capacity building.
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9. Biodiversity Day is celebrated on –
(a) 29 December
(b) 27 June
(c) 28 February
(d) 22 May
[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2012]
Ans. (d) 22 May
- The United Nations decided to make May 22 the International Day for Biological Diversity to increase understanding of biodiversity.
- This was because December 29 (the day the Convention on Biological Diversity was adopted) was hard to celebrate due to holidays around that time.
- The UN General Assembly adopted May 22 in 2000 to commemorate the Convention being adopted in 1992.
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10. Which of the following can be threats to the biodiversity of a geographical area?
1. Global warming
2. Fragmentation of habitat
3. Invasion of alien species
4. Promotion of vegetarianism
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (a) 1, 2 and 3
- Global warming, splitting up of habitats, and introducing new species can be harmful to the variety of wildlife in an area, but choosing to eat vegetarian food is not.
- Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.
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11. Which of the following can be threats to the biodiversity of a region?
1. Global Warming
2. Fragmentation of habitat
3. Invasion of alien species
4. Promotion of Vegetarianism
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Codes :
(a) (2) and (3) only
(b) (2), (3), and (4)
(c) (1), (2) and (3)
(d) (1) and (4)
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) (1), (2) and (3)
- Five main dangers to biodiversity are often known, including invasive species from other places, climate change, too many nutrients and pollution, changes to habitats, and using too many natural resources.
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12. Which one of the following strongly threatens biodiversity?
(a) Fragile ecosystems such as mangroves and wetlands.
(b) Inaccessible habitats in the Himalayas.
(c) Destruction of natural habitats and vegetation, and Jhum cultivation
(d) Creation of biosphere reserves
[Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (c) Destruction of natural habitats and vegetation, and Jhum cultivation
- Humans are one of the largest threats to biodiversity and cause loss of habitats, deforestation, desertification, and harm to marine environments.
- Wildlife trading is also increasing, and climate change is making things worse.
- In India, Jhum cultivation, or shifting cultivation, is an unsustainable and dangerous way of using land.
- It is causing serious damage to the environment and ecology of these regions.
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13. Consider the following regions:
1. Eastern Himalayas
2. Eastern Mediterranean region
3. North-western Australia
Which of the above is/are Biodiversity Hotspot(s)?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2009]
Ans. (a) 1 only
- The Eastern Himalayas are the only correct biodiversity hotspot, unlike the Mediterranean basin and Southwest Australia.
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14. The ‘Hotspot’ of Biodiversity in India are:
(a) Western Himalayas and Eastern Ghat
(b) Western Himalayas and Sunderban
(c) Eastern Himalayas and the Western Ghats
(d) Eastern Himalayas and Silent Valley
[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2008]
Ans. (c) Eastern Himalayas and the Western Ghats
- Currently, Conservation International has identified 36 places with a lot of biodiversity, which make up only 2.5% of the earth’s landmass, but contain more than half of all plant species and almost 43% of all bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian species that can only be found in those areas.
- India has 4 of these biodiversity hotspots – the Himalayas, the Indo-Burma area (which includes northeastern India and the Andaman Islands), the Sundalands (the Nicobar Islands),
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15. Consider the following statements:
1. Biodiversity hotspots are located only in tropical regions.
2. India has four biodiversity hotspots ie, the Eastern Himalayas, Western Himalayas, Western Ghats, and Andaman and the Nicobar Islands.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- Currently, Conservation International has identified 36 places with a lot of biodiversity, which make up only 2.5% of the earth’s landmass, but contain more than half of all plant species and almost 43% of all bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian species that can only be found in those areas.
- India has 4 of these biodiversity hotspots – the Himalayas, the Indo-Burma area (which includes northeastern India and the Andaman Islands), the Sundalands (the Nicobar Islands),
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16. Which of the following is a biodiversity-saturated area in India?
(a) Eastern Ghat
(b) Western Ghat
(c) Thar Desert
(d) The Bay of Bengal
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (b) Western Ghat
- India is home to many species of animals and plants.
- It has 7.6% of the world’s mammals, 12.6% of birds, 6.2% of reptiles, and 4.4% of amphibians.
- The Western Ghats region is particularly rich in biodiversity.
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17. With reference to biodiversity, which of the following regions in India is regarded as ‘HOTSPOT’?
(a) Andaman and Nicobar Island
(b) Gangetic Plain
(c) Central India
(d) None of the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2009]
Ans. (a) Andaman and Nicobar Island
- Biodiversity hotspots are special places on Earth that are home to a lot of different types of plants and animals.
- They are under threat from things like habitat loss, climate change, and loss of species.
- To be considered a hotspot, it must have a lot of species that are not found anywhere else and are at risk.
- India has four of these hotspots: Western Ghat, Eastern Himalaya, Indo-Myanmar border, and Sundaland.
- The Nicobar Islands are part of the Sundaland area, and the Andaman Islands are part of the Indo-Myanmar hotspot.
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18. The most biodiversity-rich area in India is–
(a) Gangetic plain
(b) Trans Himalayas
(c) Western Ghats
(d) Central India
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (c) Western Ghats
- Certain regions of the world, called biodiversity hotspots, are home to a wide variety of plants and animals.
- Unfortunately, these areas face dangers such as the destruction of habitats, climate change, and the loss of species.
- To be a hotspot, the area must have many species that are unique and in danger of becoming extinct.
- India has four hotspots, which include the Western Ghat, Eastern Himalaya, Indo-Myanmar border, and Sundaland.
- The Nicobar and Andaman Islands are both part of two of these hotspots respectively
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19. The tallest known living tree:
(a) Eucalyptus
(b) Sequoia
(c) Deodar
(d) Parnang
[40th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1995]
Ans. (b) Sequoia
- The Redwood tree, which can be found in California, U.S.A., is the tallest known tree species.
- It has been measured to be as tall as 379 feet, or 115.5 meters.
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20. A species is considered to be extinct if it has not been seen in its natural habitat for –
(a) 15 years
(b) 25 years
(c) 40 years
(d) 50 years
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2005]
Ans. (d) 50 years
- The International Union for Conservation of Nature states that a species is considered extinct if it hasn’t been seen in the last 50 years.
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21. Which one of the following is not responsible for the extinction of a species?
(a) Broad niche
(b) Large body size
(c) Narrow niche
(d) Lack of genetic variability
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (a) Broad niche
- In ecology, the term “niche” refers to the role an organism plays in a community.
- This includes the environment they need to live in (like temperature and terrain) and how they interact with other species (like hunting or competing for resources).
- Species with limited needs, like the koalas which only eat eucalyptus leaves in Australia, are known as specialists.
- Species that can adjust to many environments and needs, like coyotes and raccoons, are called generalists.
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22. India aims to achieve land degradation neutrality by the year:
(a) 2025
(b) 2030
(c) 2035
(d) 2040
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (b) 2030
- India wants to have the same amount of land in 2030 as it does now.
- This new idea of Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) is a different way of thinking about how to take care of land.
- It means that when some land gets worse, the same amount of land should get better.
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23. The ‘Red Data Books’ published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) contain lists of:
1. Endemic plant and animal species present in the biodiversity hotspots.
2. Threatened plant and animal species.
3. Protected sites for the conservation of nature and natural resources in various countries.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 3 only
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) publishes “Red Data Books” which include lists of plants and animals that are in danger of becoming extinct.
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24. Endangered species are listed in –
(a) Dead Stock Book
(b) Red Data Book
(c) Live Stock Book
(d) None of the above
[U.P.P.C.S.(Pre) 2013]
Ans. (b) Red Data Book
- Animals that are in danger of becoming extinct are listed in the Red Data Book.
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25. Red Data Book provides data on –
(a) Red flower plants
(b) Red coloured fishes
(c) Red colored insects
(d) Endangered plants and animals
[Jharkhand P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (d) Endangered plants and animals
- The IUCN publishes “Red Data Books” which are lists of endangered plants and animals.
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26. Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?
(a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass
(b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard
(c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)
(d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass
- In 2012, the IUCN released a list of animals in danger of becoming extinct.
- 15 species in India were listed as the most endangered, including the Great Indian Bustard, Siberian Crane, and Sociable Lapwing.
- The Musk Deer was listed as vulnerable, while the Wild Ass was near threatened.
- The Red Panda was listed as endangered.
- Option (a) is the correct answer.
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27. Which one of the following Indian birds is a highly endangered species?
(a) Golden Oriole
(b) Great Indian Bustard
(c) Indian Fantail Pigeon
(d) Indian Sunbird
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2005]
Ans. (b) Great Indian Bustard
- The Great Indian Bustard is in serious danger of disappearing.
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28. Which one of the following is not correctly matched?
(a) Golden Langur: Endangered
(b) Desert Cat: Endangered
(c) Hoolock Gibbon: Endangered
(d) Asiatic Wild Dog: Threatened
[Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2012, U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (b) Desert Cat: Endangered
- The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) (sponsored by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change) has determined the risk status of the animals listed in the options.
- According to the ZSI, Golden Langur and Hoolock Gibbon are both endangered, and Asiatic Wild Dog is also endangered.
- There is no animal called Desert Cat listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, but Chinese Desert Cat is listed as vulnerable.
- The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission initially included this question in their answer key, but removed it in the revised answer key.
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29. While India’s Human population is growing at an outstanding pace, the bird population is shrinking fast mainly because:
1. There has been an abnormal increase in the number of hunters.
2. Bio-pesticides and organic manure are being used on a large scale.
3. There has been a large-scale reduction in the habitats of the birds.
4. There has been large-scale use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and mosquito repellents.
Select your answer correctly using the code given below:
Codes :
(a) 1 and 2 are correct
(b) 2 and 3 are correct
(c) 3 and 4 are correct
(d) 1 and 4 are correct
[U.P.P.C.S.(Pre) 2001]
Ans. (c) 3 and 4 are correct
- India’s human population is growing rapidly, but the number of birds is going down quickly due to the destruction of their habitats and too much use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and mosquito repellents.
- Pesticides like D.D.T. get into the food chain, which makes bird eggs crack before hatching, reducing their population.
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30. Which of the following is not a reason for the loss of biodiversity in Uttarakhand?
(a) Expansion of Roads
(b) Urbanization
(c) Afforestation of barren land
(d) Extension of Agriculture
[Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2006]
Ans. (c) Afforestation of barren land
- Planting trees in empty land does not cause the reduction of wildlife, but the building of roads, cities and farms does lead to a decrease in biodiversity.
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31. Which of the following statements about Sikkim are true? Select the correct answer from the code given below –
I. It became an integral part of India in 1975.
II. It is considered as a botanist paradise.
III. Its population is mainly made up of the Lepchas.
Codes :
(a) I
(b) I and II
(c) II and III
(d) I, II and III
[U.P.Lower Sub. (Spl) (Pre) 2004]
Ans. (d) I, II and III
- In 1975, Sikkim became an official state of India.
- This area is a paradise for botanists because it has a lot of biodiversity in the northern Himalayas.
- The population is mainly Lepchas, Bhotias, and Nepalis.
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32. The most important strategy for the conservation of biodiversity together with traditional human life is the establishment of –
(a) Biosphere reserves
(b) Botanical Gardens
(c) National parks
(d) Wildlife Sanctuaries
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (a) Biosphere reserves
- The best way to save biodiversity and traditional ways of life is to create biosphere reserves.
- These places join together human activities and ecosystems.
- India has 18 of these reserves, 12 of which are part of a world-wide network set up by UNESCO.
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33. Which one of the following is an important strategy for the conservation of biodiversity?
(a) Biosphere Reserves
(b) Botanical Gardens
(c) National Parks
(d) Wild Life Sanctuaries
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (a) Biosphere Reserves
- Creating Biosphere Reserves is a key way to protect different types of plants and animals.
- These reserves are places with land and water habitats that can help find ways to keep nature safe while still allowing us to use it.
- In-situ and Ex-Situ methods are used to preserve biodiversity.
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34. Which one of the following is not a site for an in-situ method of conservation of flora?
(a) Biosphere Reserve
(b) Botanical Garden
(c) National Park
(d) Wildlife Sanctuary
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (b) Botanical Garden
- Botanical Gardens are not a part of the in-situ conservation method for plants, while Biosphere Reserves, National Parks, and Wild Life Sanctuaries are types of in-situ conservation.
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35. Which of the following gases is commonly used in CryoBank for ex-situ conservation?
(a) Nitrogen
(b) Oxygen
(c) Carbon dioxide
(d) Methane
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2009]
Ans. (a) Nitrogen
- Ex-situ conservation is a way of protecting different parts of biodiversity by taking them away from their natural habitats and managing them in a different, controlled environment.
- This can be done in two ways.
- The first is by keeping plants and animals in aquaria, botanical gardens, and zoos.
- The second is by storing seeds, pollen, tissue, and embryos in liquid nitrogen, which lasts much longer than any other ex-situ conservation method.
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36. The maximum biodiversity is found in –
(a) Tropical rainforest
(b) Temperate forest
(c) Coniferous forest
(d) Arctic forest
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (a) Tropical rainforest
- The tropical rainforest, which is between 23°5’N and 23°5’S, has the most variety of plants and animals.
- This area has ideal conditions for growth and development because it gets lots of rain and is very warm all year round, making it the best biome for biodiversity.
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37. In which of the following ecosystems the species diversity is relatively higher?
(a) Deep sea
(b) Tropical rainforest
(c) Coral reefs
(d) Desert
[U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (b) Tropical rain forest, (c) Coral reefs
- Tropical rainforests and coral reefs are some of the most full-of-life habitats on the planet.
- So, the Uttar Pradesh Service Commission determined that both Option B and option c are the right answers.
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38. The maximum biodiversity is found in:
(a) Tundra
(b) Coniferous forests
(c) Tropical rainforests
(d) Temperate forests
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Tropical rainforests
- Bio-diversity is the different kinds of living things that are found in a certain area.
- The most diverse ecosystem is the tropical rain forest, which is located close to the equator.
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39. Which of the following is considered a “Hotspot” of biodiversity in India?
(a) Aravalli Hills
(b) Western Ghats
(c) Eastern Ghats
(d) Indo-Gangetic Plains
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (b) Western Ghats
- Biodiversity is a shorter way of saying “biological diversity”, which means the variety of living things.
- Places with a lot of different plants and animals, which are in danger of disappearing, are called biodiversity hotspots.
- India has four of the 36 hotspots in the world – the Himalayas, the Western Ghats, the Indo-Burma region and the Sundaland.
- This is why (b) is the correct answer.
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40. In which of the following types of forests maximum plant diversity is found?
(a) Tropical moist deciduous forests
(b) Sub-tropical mountain forests
(c) Temperate moist forests
(d) Tropical evergreen forests
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (d) Tropical evergreen forests
- Tropical evergreen forests are the places with the most variety of plants.
- These forests usually happen in areas with more than 200 cm of rain and a temperature between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius.
- They take up about 7% of the earth’s land and contain more than half of the world’s plants and animals.
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41. Biodiversity changes occur:
(a) Increases towards the equator
(b) Decreases towards the equator
(c) Remains unchanged throughout the Earth
(d) Increases towards the poles
[Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (a) Increases towards the equator
- Biodiversity is not the same everywhere on Earth.
- It is higher closer to the equator and it changes based on climate, elevation, soil, geography and other species.
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42. The richest biodiversity is found in the:
(a) Silent Valley
(b) Kashmir Valley
(c) Valley of Flowers
(d) Surma Valley
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2011, Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2005, U.P. Lower Sub. (Spl) (Pre) 2003]
Ans. (a) Silent Valley
- Silent Valley in Kerala, India, located in Palakkad District, is the home to the most diverse wildlife.
- It is 12 km long from north to south and 7 km wide from east to west, and is situated between 11°03′ and 11°13′ N latitude and 76°21′ and 76°35′ E longitude.
- It is part of the Western Ghats.
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43. Which one of the following States is related to ‘Silent Valley Project’?
(a) Uttarakhand
(b) Himachal Pradesh
(c) Kerala
(d) Tamil Nadu
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Kerala
- Before the internet existed, a group of people worked together to protect a beautiful, humid evergreen forest in Kerala’s Palakkad district from being ruined by a hydroelectric project.
- In 1986, Silent Valley was officially declared a national park.
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44. ‘Valley of Flowers’ is situated in –
(a) Kerala
(b) Jammu & Kashmir
(c) Uttarakhand
(d) Himachal Pradesh
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2002]
Ans. (c) Uttarakhand
- The Valley of Flowers is located in the Chamoli region of Uttarakhand.
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45. Which of the following wetlands are designated as Ramsar sites?
1. Chilka Lake
3. Wuller Lake
2. Keoladeo
4. Loktak
Select the correct answer from the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) All
[U.P.P.C.S.(Pre) 2013]
Ans. (d) All
- India has 49 wetland sites that are recognized as important internationally, known as Ramsar Sites.
- Each site has a designation date, state, and area in hectares.
- For example, Asthamudi Wetland in Kerala was designated on 19.8.2002 and has an area of 61,400 hectares.
- Some of the other sites include Bhitarkanika Mangroves in Odisha, Bhoj Wetlands in Madhya Pradesh, and Chandertal Wetland in Himachal Pradesh.
- All 49 sites are important for conservation purposes.
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46. The Ramsar Convention was associated with the conservation of –
(a) Bio-fuels
(b) Forests
(c) Wetlands
(d) Drylands
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (c) Wetlands
- The Ramsar Convention is all about preserving and using wetlands wisely.
- It was signed in 1971 at Ramsar in Iran.
- This date is now celebrated every year as World Wetland Day.
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47. Bihar’s first Ramsar Site is located in:
(a) Begusarai
(b) Banka
(c) Bhagalpur
(d) Bhojpur
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[66th BPSC Re-Exam 2020]
Ans. (a) Begusarai
- Kabartal Wetlands, Bihar’s first Ramsar Site, is located in Begusarai District.
- It has an area of 26.20 square kilometers and was declared as a Ramsar Site on July 21, 2020.
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48. ‘‘Ramsar Convention’’ is related to:
(a) Climate change
(b) Pesticide pollution
(c) Ozone layer depletion
(d) Wetland conservation
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Re-Exam) (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (d) Wetland conservation
- Kabartal Wetlands, located in Begusarai District of Bihar, is Bihar’s first Ramsar Site.
- It covers an area of 26.20 square kilometers and was officially declared as a Ramsar Site on July 21
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49. Wetland day is observed on –
(a) 2nd February
(b) 2nd April
(c) 2nd May
(d) 2nd March
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (a) 2nd February
- World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on 2 February.
- This day marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February, 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar.
- The theme of World Wetland Day, 2021 is – ‘Wetlands and Water’.
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50. In India, which one of the following states has the largest inland saline wetland?
(a) Gujarat
(b) Haryana
(c) Madhya Pradesh
(d) Rajasthan
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2009]
Ans. (d) Rajasthan
- Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan is the biggest salty wetland inside India.
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51. Biosphere reserves are areas for conservation of–
(a) Grasslands
(b) Agriculture production
(c) Atmospheric balance
(d) Genetic Variation
[U.P. Lower (Spl.) (Pre) 2004]
Ans. (d) Genetic Variation
- A biosphere reserve is an area that contains special plants and animals that are scientifically and naturally important.
- It helps to protect the different kinds of organisms and plants that live there.
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52. Cartagena protocol is related to:
(a) Bio-safety agreement
(b) Pollution
(c) Ozone depletion
(d) Climate Change
[Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (a) Bio-safety agreement
- The Cartagena Protocol is a worldwide agreement about the safety of living organisms.
- It was accepted on the 29th of January, 2000, and became active on the 11th of September, 2003.
- India officially agreed to the bio-safety
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53. Which one of the following is the most effective factor of coral bleaching?
(a) Marine pollution
(b) Increase of salinity of seas
(c) Rise in normal temperature of sea-water
(d) the outbreak of diseases and epidemics
[U.P.P.C.S.(Pre) 2012]
Ans. (c) Rise in normal temperature of sea-water
- When the water is too warm, the coral will lose the algae living inside it and turn completely white, which is called coral bleaching.
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54. Which of the following have coral reefs?
1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
2. Gulf of Kachchh
3. Gulf of Mannar
4. Sunderbans
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
- The total area of coral reefs in India is 5,790 km2, located in four main areas: Lakshadweep, the Gulf of Mannar, the Gulf of Kutch, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Fringing reefs are common around the Gulf of Mannar, the Gulf of Kutch, the Andaman Islands, and the Nicobar Islands.
- Atoll reefs can be found in Lakshadwe
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High-Level
1. Who among the following had used the term ‘Biodiversity’ for the first time?
(a) C.J. Barrow
(b) De Carter
(c) Walter G. Rosen
(d) D.R. Batish
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2013]
Ans. (c) Walter G. Rosen
- Biodiversity is a combination of two words, “biological” and “diversity”.
- It was first used in 1985 by Walter G. Rosen of the National Research Council for a seminar about biological diversity.
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2. Biodiversity forms the basis for human existence in the following ways:
1. Soil formation
2. Prevention of soil erosion
3. Recycling of waste
4. Pollination of crops
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Code :
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1 and 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
- Biodiversity is essential for our survival because it helps create soil, prevents soil erosion, recycles waste, and pollinates plants.
- It is also used for medicinal purposes.
|
3. The decade 2011-20 has been designated by the U.N.O. as the decade of –
(a) Natural disaster decade
(b) Bio-diversity decade
(c) Climate-change decade
(d) Environment decade
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (b) Bio-diversity decade
- In December 2010, the United Nations General Assembly announced that the years 2011 to 2020 would be known as the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity.
|
4. The United Nations Organization has declared the decade 2011-2020 as:
(a) Decade of Biodiversity
(b) Decade of Pollution
(c) Decade on Space Technology
(d) Decade on Animal Health
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (a) Decade on Biodiversity
- The United Nations has designated the years 2011-2020 as the ‘Decade of Biodiversity’.
- The main purpose is to make biodiversity a priority.
- During this decade, governments are urged to create, execute, and share the outcomes of their national plans for carrying out the Biodiversity Strategic Plan.
|
5. Which of the following is not responsible for the increase in the biodiversity of an ecosystem?
(a) Productivity of the ecosystem
(b) Intermediate-disturbance
(c) Age of the ecosystem
(d) Less number of trophic levels
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) (Re-Exam ) 2015]
Ans. (d) Less number of trophic levels
- The ecosystem is constantly changing.
- The dependence of organisms on each other for food leads to the formation of different levels of food sources.
- A decrease in these levels results in a decrease in the variety of organisms.
- Other factors such as how productive the ecosystem is, how often it is disturbed, and how old it is, all impact the amount of biodiversity in the ecosystem.
|
6. The Himalayan Range is very rich in species diversity. Which one among the following is the most appropriate reason for this phenomenon?
(a) It has a high rainfall that supports luxuriant vegetative growth
(b) It is a confluence of different biogeographical zones
(c) Exotic and invasive species have not been introduced in this region
(d) It has less human interference
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (b) It is a confluence of different biogeographical zones
- The Himalayan Range has a lot of different types of species.
- This is because it is where different areas of nature come together.
|
7. The Biodiversity Act was passed by the Indian Parliament in –
(a) May, 2000
(b) December, 2002
(c) January, 2004
(d) October, 2008
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (b) December, 2002
- India’s Parliament approved the Biodiversity Act on December 11, 2002.
|
8. In which year ‘Biodiversity Act’ was passed in India?
(a) 2000
(b) 2002
(c) 2010
(d) 2017
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (b) 2002
- The ‘Bio-Diversity Act’ was accepted in 2002.
- It is designed to protect the biological diversity of India and make sure that people who use traditional biological resources and knowledge get their fair share of the benefits.
|
9. The National Biodiversity Authority of India was established in–
(a) 2003, in Chennai
(b) 2003, in Bengaluru
(c) 2003, in Hyderabad
(d) 2003, in Kerala
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2014]
Ans. (a) 2003, in Chennai
- The National Biodiversity Authority was set up in 2003 to carry out India’s Bio-Diversity Act (2002).
- Its main office is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu and it is a government-run organisation that works under the Ministry of Environment.
|
10. How does the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) help in protecting Indian agriculture?
1. The NBA checks the biopiracy and protects indigenous and traditional genetic resources.
2. The NBA directly monitors and supervises the scientific research on the genetic modification of crop plants.
3. Application for Intellectual Property Rights related to genetic/biological resources cannot be made without the approval of the NBA.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (c) 1 and 3
- The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) is based in Chennai and was set up in 2003 to enforce India’s Biological Diversity Act from 2002.
- This Act relates to the conservation, use of biological resources, and shared knowledge.
- It also deals with the transfer of research results and the application of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) related to Indian biological resources.
- The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) which is part of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, is responsible for keeping track of and overseeing scientific research on genetic modifications of plants and other organisms.
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11. Sea buckthorn has a huge global market potential. The berries of this plant are rich in vitamins and nutrients. Genghis Khan used them to improve the stamina of his troops. Russian cosmonauts used its oil to combat radiation. Where is this plant found in India?
(a) Nagaland
(b) Ladakh
(c) Kodaikanal
(d) Pondicherry
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2004]
Ans. (b) Ladakh
- Sea buckthorn is a plant that grows in the Himalayas and has many health benefits.
- India has lots of potential to produce Sea buckthorn fruit, which can help prevent soil erosion and fix nitrogen in cold and desert areas.
- Sea buckthorn fruits are found in Ladakh, Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh and some parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
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12. The Government of India encourages the cultivation of ‘sea buckthorn’. What is the importance of this plant?
1. It helps in controlling soil erosion and preventing desertification.
2. It is a rich source of biodiesel.
3. It has nutritional value and is well-adapted to grow in cold areas of high altitudes.
4. Its timber is of great commercial value.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) 2, 3, and 4
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (c) 1 and 3
- Sea buckthorn grows in cold, dry places like Ladakh.
- Its bushy shape and lots of branches help stop soil erosion and keep the soil in place.
- The fruit of this plant can be used to make nutritious juice.
|
13. Given below are two statements, one labeled as Assertion (A) and the other as the Reason (R).
Assertion (A): The biosphere is an example of an open system.
Reason (R): There cannot be reinvestment of new substances in the biosphere but there is no restriction on the investment and exit of energy.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2017]
Ans. (c) (A) is true but (R) is false
- The biosphere is an example of an open system, which means that substances come in and out of it.
- New substances can also be put back into the biosphere.
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14. Recently, which of the following drugs has been reported as responsible for vulture death?
(a) Aspirin
(b) Chloroquine
(c) Diclofenac Sodium
(d) Penicillin
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (c) Diclofenac Sodium
- In 2003, a scientist from the Peregrine Fund found that vultures were dying due to a drug known as Diclofenac Sodium.
- In 2004, a study by the Peregrine Fund and the Ornithological Society of Pakistan confirmed this.
- This led to the Drug Controller General of India banning the production of veterinary Diclofenac.
- This drug caused the death of 8.5 crore vultures in India, Nepal and Pakistan in 10 years, which resulted in similar bans in Nepal and Pakistan.
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15. The rapid rate of decline in the vulture population in India is mainly due to:
(a) Overuse of Diclofenac drug
(b) Low death rate of animals
(c) High death rate of animals
(d) Cleanliness
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (a) Overuse of Diclofenac drug
- In 2003, a scientist from the Peregrine Fund discovered that vultures were dying due to Diclofenac Sodium, a drug.
- In 2004, a study by the Peregrine Fund and the Ornithological Society of Pakistan confirmed this.
- This prompted the Drug Controller General of India to prohibit the production of veterinary Diclofenac.
- This drug caused the loss of 8.5 crore vultures in India, Nepal and Pakistan in 10 years, which then prompted similar bans in Nepal and Pakistan.
|
16. The most important factor contributing to the loss of the vulture population in India is:
(a) Viral infection
(b) Bacterial infection
(c) Administrating of painkillers to cattle
(d) Administrating of estrogen injection to cattle
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) (Re-Exam) 2015]
Ans. (c) Administrating of painkillers to cattle
- Giving cattle painkillers is the main reason for the decrease in India’s vulture population.
- Diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory and pain medication, is responsible for the deaths of many vultures.
- It was heavily used in India in the 1990s and caused the vultures to die.
|
17. Vultures which used to be very common in the Indian countryside some years ago are rarely seen nowadays. This is attributed to:
(a) The destruction of their nesting sites by new invasive species
(b) A drug used by cattle owners for treating their diseased cattle
(c) Scarcity of food available to them
(d) A widespread, persistent, and fatal disease among them
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (b) A drug used by cattle owners for treating their diseased cattle
- The population of vultures has decreased a lot due to the drug Diclofenac.
- Cattle owners used this drug to treat their sick animals and it was very toxic, which killed many vultures.
- This has caused a drastic decrease in their population.
|
18. A tree species in Mauritius failed to reproduce because of the extinction of a fruit-eating bird. Which one of the following was that bird?
(a) Dove
(b) Dodo
(c) Condor
(d) Skua
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1998]
Ans. (b) Dodo
- The Dodo was a large bird with short legs and a big, curved beak.
- It lived on the islands in the Indian Ocean called Mauritius, but it disappeared completely by the 1700s.
- The Dodo was important in helping spread and fertilize the Tambalacoque plant.
|
19. Consider the following pairs: Wildlife Naturally found in
1. Blue-finned Mahseer: Cauvery River
2. Irrawaddy Dolphin: Chambal River
3. Rusty-spotted Cat: Eastern Ghats
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (c) 1 and 3 only
- The Blue-finned Mahseer is native to the Cauvery River.
- The Irrawaddy Dolphin can be found in coastal areas, estuaries, and rivers in the Bay of Bengal and Southeast Asia.
- They are also present in the Chilika Lake.
- The Gangetic Dolphin is located in the Chambal River and the Rusty Spotted Cat is found in the Eastern Ghats.
- Thus, Option C is the correct answer.
|
20. Due to some reasons, if there is a huge fall in the population of species of butterflies, what could be its likely consequence/consequences?
1. Pollination of some plants could be adversely affected.
2. There could be a drastic increase in the fungal infections of some cultivated plants.
3. It could lead to a fall in the population of some species of wasps, spiders, and birds.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (c) 1 and 3 only
- Butterflies are very important for the pollination of many flowers, so if their numbers go down, it could have a bad effect on the pollination process.
- Butterflies are at the bottom of the food chain, meaning they are eaten by things like spiders, birds and snakes.
- If there are less butterflies, it could have a bad impact on the food chain.
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21. In the context of Indian wildlife, the flying fox is a:
(a) Bat
(b) Kite
(c) Stork
(d) Vulture
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2009]
Ans. (a) Bat
- The Indian flying fox, also called the greater Indian fruit bat, is a type of bat belonging to the Pteropodidae family.
- This species can be found in Bangladesh, China, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
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22. The marine animal called dugong which is vulnerable to extinction is a/an:
(a) Amphibian
(b) Bony fish
(c) Shark
(d) Mammal
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2009]
Ans. (d) Mammal
- Dugong is a type of sea animal that is not very big and is in danger of dying out.
|
23. Concerning ‘dugong’, a mammal found in India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is a herbivorous marine animal.
2. It is found along the entire coast of India.
3. It is given legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 3 only
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (c) 1 and 3
- The dugong, also known as the ‘Sea Cow’, is mainly located in Eastern Africa, South Asia, and Australia.
- In India, these animals can be found in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay.
- They eat seagrass and live in seagrass beds, sheltered waters, lagoons, and Bays.
- The Wildlife (Protection) Act, of 1972 has made it illegal to harm these animals.
|
24. Three of the following criteria have contributed to the recognition of Western Ghats, Sri Lanka and Indo-Burma regions as hotspots of biodiversity:
1. Species richness
2. Vegetation density
3. Endemism
4. Ethno-botanical importance
5. Threat perception
6. Adaptation of flora and fauna to warm and humid conditions
Which three of the above are correct criteria in this context?
(a) 1, 2 and 6
(b) 2, 4 and 6
(c) 1, 3 and 5
(d) 3, 4 and 6
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (c) 1, 3 and 5
- The Western Ghats, Sri Lanka, and Indo-Burma were identified as hotspots for biodiversity due to their species richness, endemism, and the fact that they are threatened.
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25. Given below are two statements, one labeled as Assertion (A) and the other as the Reason (R).
Assertion (A): A maximum number of the species of butterflies are found in tropical countries.
Reason (R): Butterflies cannot tolerate low temperatures.
Codes :
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
- It is commonly believed that the climate is a major factor in controlling the life cycles of insects, such as butterflies.
- Temperature is a major factor in determining how active butterflies are each day (how much they fly, search for food, and move around).
- Butterflies are not able to handle cold temperatures, so the highest number of butterfly species are located in tropical climates.
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26. Concerning an organization known as ‘Bird Life International’ which of the following statements is/ are correct?
1. It is a Global Partnership of Conservation Organizations.
2. The concept of ‘biodiversity hotspots’ originated from this organization.
3. It identifies the sites referred to as ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (c) 1 and 3 only
- BirdLife International is an alliance of non-government organizations that works to protect birds, their habitats, and all kinds of life around the world.
- It is made up of 115 different organizations and has identified over 13,000 important places for birds and biodiversity.
- The idea of biodiversity hotspots was created by British environmentalist Norman Myres, so statements 1 and 3 are true, but statement 2 is false.
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27. Which one of the following statements is correct?
(a) The First Meeting of the Parties (MOP 1) to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety was held in the Philippines in the year 2004.
(b) India is not a signatory to the Biosafety Protocol/ Convention on Biological Diversity.
(c) The Biosafety Protocol deals with genetically modified organisms.
(d) The United States of America is a member of the Biosafety Protocol/ Convention on Biological Diversity
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2005]
Ans. (c) The Biosafety Protocol deals with genetically modified organisms.
- The First Meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in February 2004, which makes a statement (a) incorrect.
- India signed the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (which is also known as the Convention on Biological Diversity) in January 2001, which makes statement (b) incorrect.
- The Protocol is meant to protect both biological diversity and human life from the negative effects of organisms changed by technology, so statement (c) is correct.
- The United States is not a member of the Biosafety Protocol/Convention on Biological Diversity, and so statement (d) is incorrect.
|
28. Which one of the following Union Ministries implements the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety?
(a) Ministry of Science and Technology
(b) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
(c) Ministry of Environment and Forests
(d) Ministry of Chemical and Fertilizers
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2009]
Ans. (c) Ministry of Environment and Forests
- The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement that works to make sure that Living Modified Organisms (LMO) from modern biotechnology don’t have negative effects on the environment and people’s health.
- It was officially agreed on 29 January 2000 and started to be enforced on 11 September 2003.
- India signed the protocol in 2001 and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is in charge of making sure it is followed.
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29. A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Indian animal species. The animal has no predators in that area but its existence is threatened due to the destruction of its habitat. Which one of the following could be that animal?
(a) Indian wild buffalo
(b) Indian wild ass
(c) Indian wild boar
(d) Indian gazelle
I.A.S. (Pre) 2011
Ans. (b) Indian wild ass
- The Rann of Kachchh is the home of the Indian Wild Ass, however, its safety is being put at risk due to the destruction of its environment. There are no predators in this area for the animal.
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30. The 10th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Conference on ‘Biological Diversity’ was held at:
(a) Beijing
(b) Copenhagen
(c) Nagoya
(d) New York
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (c) Nagoya
- The tenth, eleventh, twelfth, and fifteenth meetings of the Conference of the Parties (COP) were held in Nagoya, Japan; Hyderabad, India; Pyeongchang, South Korea; and Kunming, China respectively, over the past decade.
- During the Nagoya Biodiversity Summit, decisions were made to help nations address biodiversity loss and climate change.
- The fifteenth meeting of the COP will be held in two phases in Kunming, China in 2021 and 2022.
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31. Which of the following statements is/are correct?
Proper design and effective implementation of the UNREDD+ Programme can significantly contribute to:
1. Protection of biodiversity
2. Resilience of forest ecosystems
3. Poverty reduction
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (d) 1, 2 and 3
- The UN-REDD Program was created in 2008 by UNFCCC member countries to help reduce global greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.
- Institutions like UNDP, FAO, and UNEP are involved in this program.
- UN-REDD focuses on conserving and managing forests responsibly to help fight climate change.
- It also provides technical and financial help to developing nations in order to help reduce poverty.
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32. Two important rivers–one with its source in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha) and another with its source in Odisha–merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of the Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area. Which one of the following could be this?
(a) Bhitarkanika
(b) Chandipur-on-sea
(c) Gopalpur-on-sea
(d) Simlipal
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (a) Bhitarkanika
- The Brahmani and Vaitarni rivers join together at Bhitarkanika, which is an area known for its wildlife and biodiversity, before flowing into the sea.
- The Brahmani river, also known as the South Koel in Jharkhand, is formed by the combination of the South Koel and Sankh rivers near Rourkela.
- The Vaitarni river begins in the Guptaganga hills
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33. Among the mathematical indices for measuring biodiversity, which one shows the mean species diversity in a habitat at a local scale?
(a) Alpha Index
(b) Beta index
(c) Gamma index
(d) None of these
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (a) Alpha Index
- Species Richness – This is the number of species found in a certain area.
- Alpha Diversity – This is the average number of species in a specific area or habitat.
- Beta Diversity – This is the difference in the amount of species between two different ecosystems.
- Gamma Diversity – This is the total number of species across different ecosystems in a larger area.
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34. Concerning the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between Governments.
2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage the natural environment.
3. CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (b) 2 and 3 only
- IUCN was made in 1948 and is an association that gives organizations, both public and private, knowledge and tools to help people thrive and keep nature safe at the same time.
- It is not related to the United Nations.
- IUCN has the expertise and contacts to make a lot of conservation projects around the world successful.
- So, statement (1) is wrong, but (2) and (3) are right.
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35. With reference to an initiative called ‘The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is an initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF, and the World Economic Forum.
2. It is a global initiative that focuses on drawing attention to the economic benefits of biodiversity.
3. It presents an approach that can help decision-makers recognize, demonstrate, and capture the value of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) 2 and 3 only
- TEEB is a global effort to make people see the values of biodiversity and ecosystems.
- It wants people to understand how helpful these are and show the economic benefits in decision-making.
- It started in 2007, led by Pavan Sukhdev, with Germany and the European Union.
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36. In which of the following States is lion-tailed macaque found in its natural habitat?
1. Tamil Nadu
2. Kerala
3. Karnataka
4. Andhra Pradesh
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) Only 2
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) All of these
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (a) 1, 2 and 3
- The Lion-tailed Macaque lives in the Western Ghats of India, mainly in the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and the area near the border of Tamil Nadu. This species is endangered.
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37. Consider the following:
1. Black-necked Crane
2. Cheetah
3. Flying Squirrel
4. Snow Leopard
Which of the above are naturally found in India?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1, 3 and 4
(c) 2 and 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (b) 1, 3 and 4
- In 1952, the cheetah was declared extinct in India.
- Recently, the Supreme Court of India canceled the government’s plan to bring cheetahs back to India from Namibia.
- Snow leopards live in areas that are 3000-4500 meters above sea level, and surveys in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh have shown them to be in India.
- The black-necked crane is the state bird of Jammu and Kashmir.
- Flying squirrels can be found in India, Russia, Japan, China, Europe, Africa, and North America.
- India is home to seven species of flying squirrels, six of which live in the Himalayas.
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38. With reference to India’s biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Grey-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are:
(a) Birds
(b) Primates
(c) Reptiles
(d) Amphibians
[I.A.S. (Pre.) 2020]
Ans. (a) Birds
- In India, there are four types of birds: Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Grey-chinned minivet, and White-throated redstart.
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39. Consider the following:
1. Bats
2. Bears
3. Rodents
The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) Hibernation cannot be observed in any of the above
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (c) 1, 2 and 3
- Animals like squirrels, bears, and some bats use hibernation in winter to conserve energy when food is not available.
- During hibernation, the animal’s metabolism slows, its temperature drops, and its breathing rate decreases.
- To prepare for hibernation, mammals such as squirrels, muskrats, and mice eat a lot of food in the summer and fall to store fat so they have enough energy to survive the winter.
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40. Consider the following statements:
1. Biodiversity is normally greater in the lower latitudes as compared to the higher latitudes.
2. Along the mountain gradients, biodiversity is normally greater in the lower altitudes as compared to the higher altitudes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (c) Both 1 and 2
- Biodiversity is greater in warm, tropical areas than in cold, high-altitude areas.
- Rain forests have the most biodiversity and they are located in the warmer parts of the world.
- Valleys in lower altitudes also have more biodiversity than mountains in higher altitudes.
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41. Consider the following statements:
1. Salt-water crocodile is found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
2. Shrew and tapir are found in the Western Ghats of the Malabar region.
Codes :
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (a) 1 only
- The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a lot of different types of wildlife.
- They have whales, dolphins, dugongs, turtles, saltwater crocodiles, fish, prawns, lobsters, corals, and shells including rare kinds of Trochus.
- Shrews and tapirs are found in the big Himalayan Mountains, not in the Western Ghats area of the Malabar region.
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42. Consider the following statements:
1. In India, Red Panda is naturally found in the western Himalayas only.
2. In India, Slow Loris lives in the dense forests of the North East.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2007]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- The Red Panda is a mammal that marks its territory and is called Ailurus fulgens.
- They live in temperate climates, like deciduous and coniferous forests, where there are usually bamboo and hollow trees.
- Because of this, they are an important species for these forests and can show us how healthy they are.
- Red Pandas are found in places like Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and some Indian states.
- Most of the Red Pandas are in China, while the majority of the Indian Red Pandas are in Arunachal Pradesh, making statement 1 incorrect.
- Slow Loris are found in places like Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, and Myanmar, which makes statement 2 correct.
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43. Concerning a conservation organization called ‘Wetlands International’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is an inter-governmental organization formed by the countries that are signatories to the Ramsar Convention.
2. It works at the ground level to develop and mobilize knowledge and use practical experience to advocate for better policies.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- Wetlands International is a non-profit global group that works to protect and revitalize wetlands and their resources for people and wildlife.
- It is based in the Netherlands and works on a variety of topics all over the world.
- It is a leading authority on peatlands, climate change, wetlands, and waterbird migration, and does research, field work, and works with governments and businesses to influence policy.
- It is supported by donations and the help of many specialists and volunteers.
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44. India is a party to the Ramsar Convention and has declared many areas as Ramsar Sites.
Which of the following statements best describes how we should maintain these sites in the context of this Convention?
(a) Keep all the sites completely inaccessible to man so that they can not be exploited.
(b) Conserve all the sites through an ecosystem approach and permit tourism and recreation only.
(c) Conserve all the sites through an ecosystem approach for a specific period without any exploitation, with specific criteria and a specific period for each site, and then allow sustainable use of them by future generations.
(d) Conserve all the sites through an ecosystem approach and allow their simultaneous sustainable use.
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (d) Conserve all the sites through an ecosystem approach and allow their simultaneous sustainable use.
- India is part of the Ramsar Convention and has chosen certain areas to be protected from damage and to be used in a way that is sustainable.
- This is to preserve the environment as a whole.
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45. If a wetland of international importance is brought under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply?
(a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference.
(b) The country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometres of the edge of the wetland.
(c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed.
(d) It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site’.
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference.
- The Montreux Record is a list of wetland sites that have been changed in some way by people, like pollution or technology.
- It is kept as part of the Ramsar list of Wetlands of International Importance.
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46. As an ecosystem, wetlands are useful for which of the following?
(a) For nutrient-recovery and cycling
(b) For releasing heavy metals through absorption by plants.
(c) In reducing siltation of rivers by retaining sediments
(d) All the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (d) All the above
- Wetlands act like a sponge and absorb water during floods and when water levels are high.
- They can slowly release water back into rivers when the water levels are low.
- They also add plants to rivers which helps to feed the fish.
- Wetlands help to reduce the impact of humans on rivers and the environment around them.
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47. Concerning the wetlands of India, consider the following statements
1. The country’s total geographical area under the category of wetlands is recorded more in Gujarat as compared to other states.
2. In India, the total geographical area of coastal wetlands larger than that of the total is inland area of wetlands
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (a) Only 1
- 69.23% of the land in the country is classified as wetland, 27.13% is Coastal wetland, and 3.64% is Low wetland (<2.25 ha).
- Gujarat is the biggest area of wetlands with 3474950 ha.
- Andhra Pradesh is second. Statement 1 is true, but statement 2 is false.
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48. Consider the following statements:
1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of the Ramsar Convention.
3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (c) 3 only
- The Indian government is not required by the Ramsar Convention to protect and conserve all wetlands in India, which means statement 1 is wrong.
- The Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were not made according to the Ramsar Convention, but instead by an Expert Panel from the National Environment Policy 2006, so statement 2 is wrong.
- However, Statement 3 is correct because these Rules also cover areas around the wetlands, called the “catchment regions”.
- The government has also passed the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017 which shifts the focus of managing wetlands from the central government to the state governments.
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49. The annual production of biomass is minimal in which of the following environments.
(a) Deep sea
(b) Prairie
(c) Deciduous forest
(d) Taiga
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2002]
Ans. (a) Deep sea
- Biomass is all organic materials that come from plants, like algae, trees, and crops.
- It is made when plants turn sunlight into plant material using photosynthesis.
- This includes all plants and organic stuff from both land and water.
- The deep sea has the least biomass production, while tropical rain forests have the most, which is about 2200 grams (dry weight) per square meter each year.
- Other biomes have different amounts of biomass production.
- For example, deciduous forests have 1200 grams, taiga has 800 grams, and prairies have 600 grams (all dry weight).
- Deep Sea has very little production.
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50. The author of ‘Tomorrow’s Biodiversity’ is –
(a) Vandana Shiva
(b) V.K. Sharma
(c) M.S. Swaminathan
(d) Medha Patekar
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2004, U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2005]
Ans. (a) Vandana Shiva
- Vandana Shiva wrote the book “Tomorrow Biodiversity”.
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51. Consider the following international agreements:
1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture
2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
3. The World Heritage Convention
Which of the above has/had a bearing on biodiversity?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (d) 1, 2 and 3
- The International Seed Treaty, also known as the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, is an all-encompassing international agreement that works in tandem with the Convention on Biological Diversity.
- The goal of this treaty is to make sure that people have enough food by protecting, exchanging and using the world’s plant genetic resources for food and agriculture in a responsible way.
- The World Heritage Convention and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification also have an influence on biodiversity.
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