Biodiversity part 3

Total Questions: 44

1. The Ramsar Convention was associated with the conservation of - [U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2008]

Correct Answer: (c) Wetlands
Solution:The Ramsar Convention is associated with the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. It is also known as the Convention on Wetlands. It was signed on 2 February, 1971 at Ramsar in Iran. That date is celebrated as World Wetland Day now. The theme of this day in 2024 is-Wetlands and Human Wellbeing.

2. "Ramsar Convention" is related to : [U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Re-Exam) (Pre) 2016]

Correct Answer: (d) Wetland conservation
Solution:The Ramsar Convention is associated with the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. It is also known as the Convention on Wetlands. It was signed on 2 February, 1971 at Ramsar in Iran. That date is celebrated as World Wetland Day now. The theme of this day in 2024 is-Wetlands and Human Wellbeing.

3. Bihar's first Ramsar Site is located in : [66ᵗʰ BPSC Re-Exam 2020]

Correct Answer: (a) Begusarai
Solution:Bihar's first Ramsar Site Kabartal Wetland is located in Begusarai District of the State. Kabartal Wetlands covers an area of 26.20 square Kilometers and declared as Ramsar Sites on 21st July, 2020.

4. Which is the first Ramsar Site in Bihar? [U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2022]

Correct Answer: (c) Kanwar lake
Solution:Kanwar lake (Kabartal Wetland) in the district of Begusarai is first Ramsar site in Bihar.

5. Wetland day is observed on - [U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2008]

Correct Answer: (a) 2nd February
Solution: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. Theme of World Wetland Day, 2024 is - "Wetlands and Human Wellbeing."

6. Which of the following is Known as "World Wetlands Day"? [U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2023]

Correct Answer: (d) 2 February
Solution:World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on 2 February aims to raise global awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and planet. This day also marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar on the Shores of the Caspian Sea. Hence option (d) is correct answer.

7. In India, which one of the following states has the largest inland saline wetland? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2009]

Correct Answer: (d) Rajasthan
Solution:Sambhar Lake (Rajasthan) is the largest inland Saline wetland of India.

8. Which of the following wetlands are designated as Ramsar sites? [U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2013]

1. Chilka Lake
2. Wuller Lake
3. Keoladeo
4. Loktak

Select the correct answer form the code given below :

Correct Answer: (d) All
Solution:The list of Ramsar Sites comprises wetland of international importance. India currently has 80 sites designated as wetlands of international importance (Ramsar Sites).

9. What are 'Ramsar Sites'? [Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2021]

Correct Answer: (c) Wetlands of International Importance
Solution:A Ramsar Site is a wetland site designated to be of international importance. These wetlands are protected under strict guidelines of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. India adds 16 more wetlands to the list of Ramsar sites to make total 80 Ramsar sites in the country in the 75th year of Independence. The 16 new sites include: Six (6) sites in Tamil Nadu, Three (3) in Karnataka Three (3) in Odisha, Two (2) in Jammu & Kashmir and One (1) each in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Designation of these sites would help in conservation and management of wetlands and wise use of their resources. Tamil Nadu has maximum no. of Ramsar sites (16 nos), followed by UP which has 10 nos. of Ramsar sites.

Brief of 11 Wetlands Designated as Ramsar sites

S.No. Name of wetland Area in Ha State
1. Tampare lake 300 Odisha
2. Hirskud Reservoir 65400
3. Ansupa lake 231
4. Yashwant Sagar 822.90 Madhya Pradesh
5. Chitrangudi Bird

Sanctuary

260.47 Tamil Nadu
6. Suchindram Theroor

Wetland Complex

94.23
7. Vaduvur Bird

Sanctuary

112.64
8. Kanjirankulam

Bird Sanctuary

96.89
9. Thane Creek 6521.08 Maharashtra
10. Hygam Wetland

Conservation Reserve

801.82 Jammu and Kashmir
11. Shallbugh Wetland

Conservation Reserve

1675
12. Aghanashini Estuary 4801 Karnataka
13. Ankasamudra Bird

Conservation Reserve

98 Karnataka
14. Magadikereidin

Conservation Reserve

54 Karnataka

10. Which one of the following Ramsar Wetland sites is situated in any state of India? [U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2021]

Correct Answer: (b) Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary
Solution:Point Calimere Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary is in Tamil Nadu to be declared as a Ramsar Site on 19th August 2002 and has been designated as Ramsar Site No. 1210. It is located along the Palk Strait covering Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur and Thanjavur with an area of 38,500 Ha.

11. Which of the following is a Ramsar site under Ramsar Convention? [U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2015]

Correct Answer: (d) Bhoj wetland
Solution:Sunderbans (2019) wetland is situated in West Bengal and Bhoj wetland in Madhya Pradesh.

12. With reference to 'Parvati Arga' ramsar site, which of the following statements is/are correct? [U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2021]

1. It is situated in Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh
2. It is a bird sanctuary.

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

Correct Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Solution:Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is a permanent freshwater environment consisting of two oxbow lakes. These wetlands are characteristic of Uttar Pradesh and offer exceptional habitats for waterbirds, providing both roosting and breeding sites with over 100,000 birds documented in annual counts. The Sanctuary is a refuge for some of India's threatened vulture species: the critically endangered white-rumped vulture (Gyps bengalensis) and Indian vulture (Gyps indicus), and the endangered Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) have all been recorded. The Sanctuary is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Tarabganj Tehsil, at a distance of about 40 km from Gonda District at Mankapur-Nawabganj Road.

13. If a wetland of international importance is brought under the 'Montreux Record', what does it imply? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]

Correct Answer: (a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference.
Solution:The Montreux Record is a register of wetland sites on the list of Wetlands of International Importance where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring, or are likely to occur as a result of technological developments, pollution or other human interference. It is maintained as part of the Ramsar list.

14. As an ecosystem, wetlands are useful for which of the Following? [U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2012]

Correct Answer: (d) All the above
Solution:Wetlands prevent flooding by holding water much like a sponge. By doing so, wetlands help keep river levels normal and filter and purify the surface water. Wetlands accept water during a flood and whenever water levels are high. When water levels are low, wetlands slowly release water. Wetlands also release vegetative matters into rivers, which help feed fish in the rivers. Wetlands help to counterbalance the human effect on rivers by rejuvenating them and surrounding ecosystems.

15. "If rainforests and tropical forests are the lungs of the Earth, then surely wetlands function as its kidneys. "Which one of the following functions of wetlands best reflects the above statement? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2022]

Correct Answer: (d) Aquatic plants absorb heavy metals and excess nutrients.
Solution:Wetlands ecosystems are vital parts of hydrological cycle, highly productive, support rich biodiversity and provide a wide range of ecosystem services such as water storage, water purification, flood mitigation, storm buffers, erosion control, aquifer recharge, microclimate regulation, aesthetic enhancement of landscapes while simultaneously supporting many significant recreational, social and cultural activities. Aquatic plants like verticillata and water hyacinth have been used to remove heavy metals from waste water.

16. Concerning the wetlands of India, consider the following statements [I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]

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?

Correct Answer: (a) Only 1
Solution:At the time of question the share of the inland wetland of the country's total geographical area under the category of the wetland is approximately 69.23% and 27.13% area is under Coastal wetland category while 3.64% is under low wetland (<2.25 ha) category. Gujarat (3474950 ha), has the greatest share of wetlands. Andhra Pradesh is at second place. Hence, statement 1 is correct while statement 2 is incorrect.

17. Consider the following statements : [I.A.S. (Pre) 2019]

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 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?

Correct Answer: (c) 3 only
Solution:Under Ramsar Convention it is not mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India. Hence statement 1 is not correct. The Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India is not based on the recommendation of Ramsar Convention. It was framed by the recommendation of a Expert Panel constituted according to provisions of National Environment Policy 2006. Hence statement 2 is incorrect. Moreover the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority. Hence statement 3 is correct. So (c) will be the correct answer. Further government has notified wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017 which has enhanced the focus of management of wetlands from a central authority to state bodies.

18. The biodiversity Act was passed by the Indian Parliament in - [U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Mains) 2010]

Correct Answer: (b) December, 2002
Solution:Biodiversity Act was passed by the Indian Parliament in December,2002. In February, 2003 the President assented the bill.

19. In which year 'Biodiversity Act' was passed in India? [Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]

Correct Answer: (b) 2002
Solution:The 'Bio-Diversity Act' was passed in the year 2002. It provides for the preservation of Biological Diversity in India and mechanism for equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of traditional biological resources and knowledge.

20. Consider the following statements : [I.A.S. (Pre) 2023]

1. In India, the Biodiversity Management Committees are key to the realization of the objectives of the Nagoya Protocol.
2. The Biodiversity Management Committees have important function in determining access and benefit sharing, including the power to levy collection fees on the access of biological resources within its jurisdiction.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Solution:The biodiversity management committees (BMCs) have been constituted in local bodies across the length and breadth of the country under the provisions of the national Biological Diversity Act and relevant state rules enacted under it. The act gives effect to Indias commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) of 1992 to which it is a party, and the acts objectives mirror the three goals of the CBD, namely the conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the use of biological resources and associated knowledge. BMCs are, key to the realisation of the objectives of the Nagoya Pro- tocol (2010), negotiated within the CBD, enjoining parties to take measures to ensure that benefits from the utilisation of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge accrue to indigenous and local communities on mutually agreed terms. Hence statement 1 is correct. The BMC may levy charges by way of collection fees from any person for accessing or collecting any biological re- source for commercial purposes from areas falling within its territorial jurisdiction.

21. National Biodiversity Authority of India was established in - [U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2014]

Correct Answer: (a) 2003, in Chennai
Solution:The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) was established in 2003 to implement India's Bio-Diversity Act (2002). The headquarter of NBA is in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is a statutory autonomous body under The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change of India.

22. How does the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) help in protecting Indian agriculture? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]

1. NBA checks the biopiracy and protects indigenous and traditional genetic resources.
2. NBA directly monitors and supervises the scientific research on 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?

Correct Answer: (c) 1 and 3
Solution:The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) with its headquarters in Chennai, was established in 2003 to implement India's Biological Diversity Act. 2002, The Act covers conservation, use of biological resources and associated knowledge. It provides a framework for access to biological resources and sharing the benefits arising out of such access and use. The Act also includes in its ambit the transfer of research results and application for Intellectual Property Right (IPR) relating to Indian biological resources. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal committee (GEAC) functioning under Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is responsible for monitoring and supervising scientific research on genetic modification of crop plants and other organisms, so statement 2 is incorrect.

23. Concerning an organization known as 'Bird Life International' Which of the following statements is/are correct? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2015]

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 :

Correct Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Solution:Bird Life International is a global partnership of non- governmental conservation organizations that strives to conserve birds, their habitats and global biodiversity. It is the world's largest partnership of conservation organizations, with more than 115 partner organizations. This organization identifies important bird and bio-diversity areas. It has so far identified more than 13000 such areas. Concept of biodiversity hot spots was propounded by British environmentalist Norman Myres. Hence, Statement 2 is incorrect while statements 1 and 3 are correct.

24. Which one of the following statements is correct? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2005]

Correct Answer: (c) The Biosafety protocol deals with genetically modified organisms.
Solution:The first Meeting of the Parties (MOP 1) to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety was held on 23-27 February, 2004 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Hence, statements (a) is in correct. India in January, 2001, signed (ratified in 2003), Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety or the Convention on Biological Diversity. Hence statement (b) is also incorrect. It is designed to protect both biological diversity and human life from any adverse effects of organisms modified by technology. Hence, statement (c) is correct. The United States of America is not a member of the Biosafety Cartagena Protocol/Convention on Biological Diversity. Hence statement (d) is also incorrect.

25. Recently the Ecuadorians have made a historic decision by rejecting oil drilling by a referendum in which of the following biodiversity regions of Amazon? [Raj. P.C.S. (Pre) 2023]

Correct Answer: (c) Yasuni National Park
Solution:Recently the Ecuadorians have made a historic decision by rejecting oil drilling by a referendum in Yasuni National Park biodiverse regions of Amazon. UNESCO designated Yasuni as a world biosphere reserve in 1989.

26. Consider the following statements in respect of Trade Records Analysis of Fauna and Flora in Commerce (TRAFFIC) : [I.A.S. (Pre) 2017]

1. TRAFFIC is a bureau under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
2. The mission of TRAFFIC is to ensure that trade in wild plants and animals is not a threat to the Conservation of nature.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

Correct Answer: (b) 2 only
Solution:Trade Records Analysis of Fauna and Flora in Commerce (TRAFFIC) is a non-government organization. It serves to monitor the trade of wild plants and animals in the context of sustainable development and biodiversity conservation. The mission of TRAFFIC is to ensure that the trade of wild plants and animals does not threaten the conservation of nature. TRAFFIC was established in 1976. It is a strategic alliance of WWF and IUCN. IT is not a bureau under UNEP.

27. India is a party to the Ramsar Convention and has declared many areas as Ramsar Sites. Which of the following statements best describes as to how we should maintain these sites in the context of this Convention? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2010]

Correct Answer: (d) Conserve all the sites through ecosystem approach and allow their simultaneous sustainable use.
Solution:India is a party to Ramsar Convention and has declared many areas as Ramsar Sites to conserve all the site through an Ecosystem approach and allow their simultaneous sustainable use.

28. Consider the following international agreements : [I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]

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 the biodiversity?

Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution:The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (IT PGRFA) is popularly known as the International Seed Treaty. It is a comprehensive international agreement in harmony with the Convention on Biological Diversity. It aims at guaranteeing food security through the conservation, exchange and sustainable use of the world's plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. The World Heritage Convention and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification also has a bearing on the biodiversity.

29. Governments of India in collaboration with the Norwegian Government has established a centre for biodiversity policy and Law at - [U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2017]

Correct Answer: (b) Chennai
Solution:Government of India in collaboration with the Norwegian Government has established a "Centre for Biodiversity Policy and Law (CEBPOL)" in the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), Chennai, to develop professional expertise in biodiversity policies and laws and develop the capacity building.

30. Which one of the following Union Ministries implements the Cartagena Protocol on Biodiversity? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2009]

Correct Answer: (c) Ministry of Environment and Forests
Solution:The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety or the Convention on Biological Diversity is an international agreement which aims to ensure the safe handling, transport and use of Living Modified Organism (LMO) resulting from modern biotechnology that may have adverse effects on biological diversity, also taking into account risks to human health. It was adopted on 29 January, 2000 and entered into force on 11 September, 2003. India signed the Biosafety Protocol on 23rd January, 2001. In India, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Implements this protocol.

31. The 10th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Conference on 'Biological Diversity' was held at : [U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Mains) 2010]

Correct Answer: (c) Nagoya
Solution:The tenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 10) was held in Nagoya, Japan, from 18 to 29 October, 2010. Nagoya Biodiversity Summit concluded with the adoption of historical decisions that would permit the community of nations to meet the unprecedented challenges of the continued loss of biodiversity compounded by climate change. The eleventh meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-11) was held in Hyderabad, India, from 8 to 19 October, 2012. The Twelfth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-12) was held in Pyeongchang, the Republic of Korea from 6 - 17 October, 2014. Fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-15) was held in Kunming, China from 11-15 October 2021 and 2nd phase was held in December 2022 in Montreal Canada.

32. Which of the following statements is/are correct? Proper design and effective implementation of UNREDD+ Programme can significantly contribute to: [I.A.S. (Pre) 2016]

1. Protection of biodiversity
2. Resilience of forest ecosystems
3. Poverty Reduction

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution:UN-REDD (Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) is an inter-institutional progamme under the aegis of UNFCCC member countries. This programme was started in 2008. Institutions like UNDP, FAO and UNEP are associated with this programme. The objective of this programme is to mitigate climate change by reducing net emission of greenhouse gases through enhanced forest management in developing countries. UN-REDD + Programme focuses on conservation and sustainable management of forests. It plays a vital role in mitigating adverse effects of climate change. Proper design and effective implementation of UN-REDD + programme can significantly contribute to the protection of biodiversity and maintaining the resilience of forest ecosystem. It also provides technical and financial support to developing countries thus contributing to poverty alleviation.

33. With reference to an initiative called 'The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)', which of the following statements is/are correct? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2016]

1. It is an initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF and World Economic Forum.
2. It is a global Initiative that focuses on Drawing attention to the economic benefits of biodiversity.
3. It present 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 :

Correct Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only
Solution:The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) is a global initiative focused on "making nature's values visible". Its principal objective is to mainstream the values of biodiversity and ecosystem services into decision-making at all levels. It aims to achieve this goal by following a structured approach to valuation that helps decision makers recognize the wide range of benefits provided by ecosystems and biodiversity, demonstrates their values in economic terms and where appropriate, captures these values in decisions making. It was launched by Germany and European Union in March 2007 and the study was led by Pavan Sukhdev from 2007 to 2011.

34. Concerning a conservation organization called 'Wetlands International', which of the following statements is/are correct? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]

1. It is an inter-governmental organization formed by the countries which are signatories to Ramsar Convention.
2. It works at the ground level to develop and mobilize knowledge, and use the practical experience to advocate for better policies.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

Correct Answer: (b) 2 only
Solution:Wetlands International is a global organization that works to sustain and restore wetlands and their resources for people and biodiversity. It is an independent, not-for-profit, global organization supported by Government and NGO membership from around the world. Its head office is in the Netherlands. Wetlands International works in many thematic areas throughout the world. It is the leading scientific expert on peatlands and climate change as well as wetlands and waterbird migration based on extensive research as well as field projects. Wetlands International's work ranges from research and community-based field projects to advocacy and engagement with Governments, corporate and international policy fora and conventions. Wetlands International works through partnerships and is supported by contributions from an extensive specialist expert network and tens of thousands of volunteers.

35. The tallest known living tree : [40ᵗʰB.P.S.C. (Pre) 1995]

Correct Answer: (b) Sequoia
Solution:The tallest known tree is Redwood (Sequoia). It is found in California (U.S.A.). This species includes the tallest living trees on Earth, reaching up to 381 feet (116.07.5m) in height.

36. Which one of the following is not responsible for the extinction of a species? [U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2014]

Correct Answer: (a) Broad niche
Solution:In ecology, the term "niche" describes the role an organism plays in a community. A species' niche encompasses both the physical and environmental conditions it requires (like temperature or terrain) and the interactions it has with other species (like predation or competition). In general, species that have narrow or limited niches are considered to be specialist species. Koalas which feed only on leaves from eucalyptus trees in Australia, are an example of a specialist species. Species with broader niches, like coyotes or raccoons are considered generalists.

37. 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? [U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2004]

Correct Answer: (b) Ladakh
Solution:Sea buckthorn is a medicinal plant found in the Himalayan region. India holds tremendous potential in respect of Sea buckthorn fruit production and diverse varieties which have health-promoting properties and can play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion and help nitrogen fixation in cold and desert areas. Sea buckthorn fruits grow in the cold deserts of Ladakh, Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh and some parts of Arunachal Pradesh.

38. The Government of India encourages the cultivation of 'sea buckthorn'. What is the importance of this plant? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]

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?

Correct Answer: (c) 1 and 3
Solution:Sea buckthorn plant grows in the atmosphere of cold dry climate like parts of Ladakh. The bushy character of the plant with a high density of branches helps in checking soil erosion and helps in soil stabilization. The fruit of this plant is a source of nutritious juice.

39. Two important river-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 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? [I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]

Correct Answer: (a) Bhitarkanika
Solution:Brahmani and Vaitarni rivers merge at Bhitarkanika before emptying into the sea. Bhitarkanika is a protected area for wildlife and biodiversity. Brahmani river is known as South Koel in Jharkhand. The Brahmani river is formed by the confluence of South Koel and Sankh rivers near Rourkela. Vaitarni river originates from Guptaganga hills in Keonjhar district of Orissa.

40. Consider the following : [I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]

1. Bats
2. Bears
3. Rodents

The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?

Correct Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 3
Solution:Hibernation or winter sleep refers to a state of inactivity among animals spending winter in a dormant state. It is a survival strategy designed to conserve energy when weather conditions are not favourable. This condition is observed among both types of animals, cold blooded and warm blooded. Squirrels, bears and some bats resort to hibernation in winter when they do not find means to feed themselves. In this state, animal's metabolism slows, it's temperature plunges and breathing slows. To face this situation they eat heavily in summer and autumn, storing fat to survive in winter. Mammals like squirrels, muskrats, mice and other rodents fall under this category of animals.

41. The annual production of biomass is minimal in which of the following environments. [U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2002]

Correct Answer: (a) Deep sea
Solution:Biomass is a term for all organic materials that stem from plants (including algae, tree and crops). Biomass is produced by green plants converting sunlight into plant material through photosynthesis and includes all land and water based vegetation as well as all organic wastes. Hence deep sea has minimum biomass production. Highest biomass production is found among tropical rain forest. It is approximately about 2200 gram/square meter/per year. Biomass production for biomes given in the options are as follows:

Deciduous forest       -              About 1200 gram (dry weight)/square meter/every year

Taiga                            -              About 800 gram (dry weight)/square meter/every year

Prairie                          -             About 600 gram (dry weight)/square meter/every year

Deep Sea                     -              Negligible gram (dry weight)/square meter/every year

42. Biodiversity day is celebrated on - [R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2012]

Correct Answer: (e) 22 May
Solution:The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. When first created by the Second Committee of the UN General Assembly in late 1993, 29 December (the date of entry into force of the Convention of Biological Diversity), was designated The International Day for Biological Diversity. In December 2000, the UN General Assembly adopted 22 May as IDB, to commemorate the adoption of the text of the Convention on 22 May 1992 by the Nairobi Final Act of the Conference for the Adoption of the Agreed Text of the Convention on Biological Diversity. This was partly done because it was difficult for many countries to plan and carry out suitable of holidays that coincide around that time of year.

43. When the World Biodiversity Day is observed? [U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]

Correct Answer: (b) May, 22
Solution:The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. When first created by the Second Committee of the UN General Assembly in late 1993, 29 December (the date of entry into force of the Convention of Biological Diversity), was designated The International Day for Biological Diversity. In December 2000, the UN General Assembly adopted 22 May as IDB, to commemorate the adoption of the text of the Convention on 22 May 1992 by the Nairobi Final Act of the Conference for the Adoption of the Agreed Text of the Convention on Biological Diversity. This was partly done because it was difficult for many countries to plan and carry out suitable of holidays that coincide around that time of year.

44. The author of 'Tomorrow's Biodiversity' is - [U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2004, 2005]

Correct Answer: (a) Vandana Shiva
Solution:The author of "Tomorrow Biodiversity" is Vandana Shiva.