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Question 1 of 10
1. Question
Consider the following statements about the Aralam wildlife sanctuary, recently seen in the news:
1. It is located in the Eastern Ghats.
2. It is contiguous to the Peechi-Vezhani wildlife sanctuary.
3. It is the northernmost sanctuary of the state of Tamil Nadu.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Answer. D
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: Aralam wildlife sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats.
Statement 2 is incorrect: It is contiguous to the Brahmagiri wildlife sanctuary of Karnataka. The Peechi-Vezhani WLS is located in the state of Kerala.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is the northernmost wildlife sanctuary of Kerala, southwest India.
Additional information:
The Cheenkanni River flows through this beautiful wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary was constituted in the year 1984 and extended to an area of 55 Sq.Km. Towering 1145 high is the great Katti Betta, the tallest peak in the area.
The forest types include West Coast semi-evergreen forests, West Coast tropical evergreen forest, Southern hilltop evergreen forest, South Indian moist deciduous forest, and plantations.
Incorrect
Answer. D
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: Aralam wildlife sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats.
Statement 2 is incorrect: It is contiguous to the Brahmagiri wildlife sanctuary of Karnataka. The Peechi-Vezhani WLS is located in the state of Kerala.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is the northernmost wildlife sanctuary of Kerala, southwest India.
Additional information:
The Cheenkanni River flows through this beautiful wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary was constituted in the year 1984 and extended to an area of 55 Sq.Km. Towering 1145 high is the great Katti Betta, the tallest peak in the area.
The forest types include West Coast semi-evergreen forests, West Coast tropical evergreen forest, Southern hilltop evergreen forest, South Indian moist deciduous forest, and plantations.
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Question 2 of 10
2. Question
In recent times, there is a growing interest among the scientific community in ‘jatropha curcas’. Which one of the following best describes the reason for its growing popularity?
Correct
Answer. D
Explanation:
Jatropha (Jatropha curcas) is the most suitable tree borne oil seed plant for biodiesel production. It can be grown in areas of low rainfall (600 mm year-1) and in problematic soils. It is easy to establish, grows relatively quickly, is hardy and can be established from seed, seedlings and vegetative cuttings. It starts to bear fruits within two years and in some cases after one year of planting. One hectare of jatropha plantation will produce 3 to 4 Mt seeds. Jatropha removes carbon from the atmosphere, stores it in the woody tissues and assists in the buildup of soil carbon. Jatropha has a carbon sequestration potential of 5.50 t CO2 /ton/year.
It can grow without too much fertilizer, too many pesticides, or too much demand for water.
Also, it does not compete with food because it is poisonous.
Incorrect
Answer. D
Explanation:
Jatropha (Jatropha curcas) is the most suitable tree borne oil seed plant for biodiesel production. It can be grown in areas of low rainfall (600 mm year-1) and in problematic soils. It is easy to establish, grows relatively quickly, is hardy and can be established from seed, seedlings and vegetative cuttings. It starts to bear fruits within two years and in some cases after one year of planting. One hectare of jatropha plantation will produce 3 to 4 Mt seeds. Jatropha removes carbon from the atmosphere, stores it in the woody tissues and assists in the buildup of soil carbon. Jatropha has a carbon sequestration potential of 5.50 t CO2 /ton/year.
It can grow without too much fertilizer, too many pesticides, or too much demand for water.
Also, it does not compete with food because it is poisonous.
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Question 3 of 10
3. Question
Consider the following statements:
Statement I: There is a complete international ban on the trade of Indian Star Tortoise.
Statement II: It is specified in Appendix II of the CITES which calls for international cooperation in addressing illegal wildlife trade.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Correct
Answer. C
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct but statement 2 is incorrect: India’s proposal to upgrade the protection of star tortoises ( Geochelone elegans ), the smooth-coated otter ( Lutrogale perspicillata ) and small-clawed otters ( Anoyx cinereus ) in CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species on Wild Fauna and Flora) was approved in 2019 during the COP18 held in Geneva.
These species have been listed under Appendix I of CITES. So, these species now enjoy the highest degree of protection as there exists a complete international ban enforced on their trade.
Appendix I of CITES lists species that are the most endangered among CITES-listed animals and plants. They are threatened with extinction and CITES prohibits international trade in specimens of these species except when the purpose of the import is not commercial, for instance for scientific research.
-
- 90% of trade of star tortoises occurs as part of the international pet market.
- The species is categorized as ‘vulnerable’ by the International Union of Conservation of Nature and a decline greater than 30% was predicted by 2025 if the exploitation continued or expanded.
- Indian star tortoise is threatened due to highly fragmented habitat of the species, which is greatly influenced by an increased level of urbanisation and agricultural practices throughout its range.
- Areas within the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, suffer the most with the highest levels of habitat fragmentation due to the rapid development of urbanization and croplands.
- Due to the unscientific release of confiscated animals in the wild, and the subsequent hybridisation between different populations over the years, Indian star tortoises have lost genetic diversity and have experienced increase in the vulnerability of wild populations.
Appendix II of the CITES lists species that are not necessarily now threatened with extinction but that may become so unless trade is closely controlled. It also includes so-called “look-alike species”, i.e. species whose specimens in trade look like those of species listed for conservation reasons.
International trade in specimens of Appendix-II species may be authorized by the granting of an export permit or re-export certificate. No import permit is necessary for these species under CITES (although a permit is needed in some countries that have taken stricter measures than CITES requires). Permits or certificates should only be granted if the relevant authorities are satisfied that certain conditions are met, above all that trade will not be detrimental to the survival of the species in the wild.
Appendix III is a list of species included at the request of a Party that already regulates trade in the species and that needs the cooperation of other countries to prevent unsustainable or illegal exploitation. International trade in specimens of species listed in this Appendix is allowed only on presentation of the appropriate permits or certificates.
Additional information: -
- In case of the small-clawed otter and smooth-coated otter, which are traded for their fur in the international market, numbers are also declining due to habitat loss.
- Tokay geckos have been listed in Appendix II of the CITES.
Incorrect
Answer. C
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct but statement 2 is incorrect: India’s proposal to upgrade the protection of star tortoises ( Geochelone elegans ), the smooth-coated otter ( Lutrogale perspicillata ) and small-clawed otters ( Anoyx cinereus ) in CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species on Wild Fauna and Flora) was approved in 2019 during the COP18 held in Geneva.
These species have been listed under Appendix I of CITES. So, these species now enjoy the highest degree of protection as there exists a complete international ban enforced on their trade.
Appendix I of CITES lists species that are the most endangered among CITES-listed animals and plants. They are threatened with extinction and CITES prohibits international trade in specimens of these species except when the purpose of the import is not commercial, for instance for scientific research.
-
- 90% of trade of star tortoises occurs as part of the international pet market.
- The species is categorized as ‘vulnerable’ by the International Union of Conservation of Nature and a decline greater than 30% was predicted by 2025 if the exploitation continued or expanded.
- Indian star tortoise is threatened due to highly fragmented habitat of the species, which is greatly influenced by an increased level of urbanisation and agricultural practices throughout its range.
- Areas within the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, suffer the most with the highest levels of habitat fragmentation due to the rapid development of urbanization and croplands.
- Due to the unscientific release of confiscated animals in the wild, and the subsequent hybridisation between different populations over the years, Indian star tortoises have lost genetic diversity and have experienced increase in the vulnerability of wild populations.
Appendix II of the CITES lists species that are not necessarily now threatened with extinction but that may become so unless trade is closely controlled. It also includes so-called “look-alike species”, i.e. species whose specimens in trade look like those of species listed for conservation reasons.
International trade in specimens of Appendix-II species may be authorized by the granting of an export permit or re-export certificate. No import permit is necessary for these species under CITES (although a permit is needed in some countries that have taken stricter measures than CITES requires). Permits or certificates should only be granted if the relevant authorities are satisfied that certain conditions are met, above all that trade will not be detrimental to the survival of the species in the wild.
Appendix III is a list of species included at the request of a Party that already regulates trade in the species and that needs the cooperation of other countries to prevent unsustainable or illegal exploitation. International trade in specimens of species listed in this Appendix is allowed only on presentation of the appropriate permits or certificates.
Additional information: -
- In case of the small-clawed otter and smooth-coated otter, which are traded for their fur in the international market, numbers are also declining due to habitat loss.
- Tokay geckos have been listed in Appendix II of the CITES.
-
Question 4 of 10
4. Question
Consider the following pairs:
Terms – Definitions
1. Home Range – The habitat of a species which is fixed
2. Species – A group of similar organisms that can produce a fertile offspring
3. Community – Population of same species living together
How many of the above are correctly matched pairs?
Correct
Answer. A
Explanation: Option 2 is correctly matched pair. Options 1 and 3 are incorrectly matched pairs.
1. Home Range : It is not a fixed but a dynamic geographical area where a species is most likely to be found. Rather, it includes all that area where that particular species (say tiger or elephant, etc.) may wander on regular basis. It is inclusive of the usual habitat of the species and adjoining regions where it can move, often in search of food and water.
The concept of a home range was introduced by W. H. Burt in 1943.
A species range is an area where a particular species can be found during its lifetime. Species ranges include areas where individuals or communities may migrate or hibernate.
Some species have a wide range, while others live in a very limited area. For example, the range of the leopard (Panthera pardus) encompasses more than 20 million square kilometers (7.7 million square miles) across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Another type of wild cat, the rare Iriomote cat (Prionailurus iriomotensis), lives only on Japan’s Iriomote Island. Its range is only about 292 square kilometers (113 square miles).
2. Species – A group of similar organisms that can interbreed and produce a fertile offspring
Through genetic analysis, scientists can now classify species through patterns in DNA.
3. Community – Population of different species living together in a habitat.
A population and a community are two levels of ecology that consist of several groups of organisms living within a defined ecosystem at a particular period. A population is a group of individuals of a particular species, living and interbreeding in a defined geographical area at a defined time period.
Incorrect
Answer. A
Explanation: Option 2 is correctly matched pair. Options 1 and 3 are incorrectly matched pairs.
1. Home Range : It is not a fixed but a dynamic geographical area where a species is most likely to be found. Rather, it includes all that area where that particular species (say tiger or elephant, etc.) may wander on regular basis. It is inclusive of the usual habitat of the species and adjoining regions where it can move, often in search of food and water.
The concept of a home range was introduced by W. H. Burt in 1943.
A species range is an area where a particular species can be found during its lifetime. Species ranges include areas where individuals or communities may migrate or hibernate.
Some species have a wide range, while others live in a very limited area. For example, the range of the leopard (Panthera pardus) encompasses more than 20 million square kilometers (7.7 million square miles) across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Another type of wild cat, the rare Iriomote cat (Prionailurus iriomotensis), lives only on Japan’s Iriomote Island. Its range is only about 292 square kilometers (113 square miles).
2. Species – A group of similar organisms that can interbreed and produce a fertile offspring
Through genetic analysis, scientists can now classify species through patterns in DNA.
3. Community – Population of different species living together in a habitat.
A population and a community are two levels of ecology that consist of several groups of organisms living within a defined ecosystem at a particular period. A population is a group of individuals of a particular species, living and interbreeding in a defined geographical area at a defined time period.
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Question 5 of 10
5. Question
Which one of the following species is not an example of Raptor, also known as Birds of Prey?
Correct
Answer. D
Explanation:
Birds of prey (RAPTORS) are a group of birds known for their prowess as predators. There are over 560 species of birds of prey, including hawks, owls, eagles, vultures (Condors are a type of vulture, but are the largest vultures), and falcons, which can be found on every continent on Earth except Antarctica.
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- They are carnivores that hunt small animals, like rodents, rabbits, fish, lizards, and other birds, aided by their acute vision and incredible speed. Their sharp talons and hooked beaks are perfect for grabbing prey from the air, the water, or the ground and carrying it away.
- Birds of prey are apex predators and play an important ecological role in maintaining the environmental health of their natural habitats. Their hunting habits remove old, sick, and weak animals from prey populations and help keep their numbers under control.
- Birds of prey are also indicator species, which means their health and population in an area reflect the health of the habitat overall. For example, birds of prey numbers will be strong if there are lots of rodents to eat, and if there are lots of rodents, it means plant foods, like seeds and grains, are also abundant.
- There are two groups of raptors, Falconiformes and Strigiformes.
- Hawks, eagles, vultures, and falcons are all Falconiformes. They are diurnal birds of prey, which means they’re awake during the day.
- Owls make up the other subcategory, Strigiformes, and are nocturnal.
Incorrect
Answer. D
Explanation:
Birds of prey (RAPTORS) are a group of birds known for their prowess as predators. There are over 560 species of birds of prey, including hawks, owls, eagles, vultures (Condors are a type of vulture, but are the largest vultures), and falcons, which can be found on every continent on Earth except Antarctica.
-
- They are carnivores that hunt small animals, like rodents, rabbits, fish, lizards, and other birds, aided by their acute vision and incredible speed. Their sharp talons and hooked beaks are perfect for grabbing prey from the air, the water, or the ground and carrying it away.
- Birds of prey are apex predators and play an important ecological role in maintaining the environmental health of their natural habitats. Their hunting habits remove old, sick, and weak animals from prey populations and help keep their numbers under control.
- Birds of prey are also indicator species, which means their health and population in an area reflect the health of the habitat overall. For example, birds of prey numbers will be strong if there are lots of rodents to eat, and if there are lots of rodents, it means plant foods, like seeds and grains, are also abundant.
- There are two groups of raptors, Falconiformes and Strigiformes.
- Hawks, eagles, vultures, and falcons are all Falconiformes. They are diurnal birds of prey, which means they’re awake during the day.
- Owls make up the other subcategory, Strigiformes, and are nocturnal.
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Question 6 of 10
6. Question
In the context of Earth Hour, consider the following statements:
1. It is an initiative of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
2. It is observed every year in the last week of March to raise awareness about climate change.
3. It is mandatory for all the commercial firms and government buildings to switch off their lights for an hour on this day.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Answer. B
Explanation:
Statements 1 and 2 are correct: Earth Hour is a unique initiative of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). It was first launched in 2007 by WWF and partners in Sydney, Australia, and it has since grown into the largest global grassroots movement for the environment. It is observed on the last Saturday of March every year when individuals from around the globe switching off their non-essential lights to show symbolic support for the planet and to raise awareness of the environmental issues affecting it. It seeks to contribute in raising awareness about the issue of Climate Change and save the planet.
Statement 3 is incorrect: It is not mandatory but voluntary for all the commercial firms and government buildings to switch off their lights for an hour between 8:30 p.m. and 9: 30 p.m. on this day. It is a symbolic gesture on the part of the individuals in support of the planet Earth.
Incorrect
Answer. B
Explanation:
Statements 1 and 2 are correct: Earth Hour is a unique initiative of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). It was first launched in 2007 by WWF and partners in Sydney, Australia, and it has since grown into the largest global grassroots movement for the environment. It is observed on the last Saturday of March every year when individuals from around the globe switching off their non-essential lights to show symbolic support for the planet and to raise awareness of the environmental issues affecting it. It seeks to contribute in raising awareness about the issue of Climate Change and save the planet.
Statement 3 is incorrect: It is not mandatory but voluntary for all the commercial firms and government buildings to switch off their lights for an hour between 8:30 p.m. and 9: 30 p.m. on this day. It is a symbolic gesture on the part of the individuals in support of the planet Earth.
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Question 7 of 10
7. Question
The term ‘bioprospecting’ is best described by which one of the following statements?
Correct
Answer. D
Explanation: Bioprospecting is defined as a systematic and organized search for useful products derived from bioresources including plants, microorganisms, animals, etc., that can be developed further for commercialization and overall benefits of the society.
It involves research for potential usage of any animal or plant species for economic purposes such as usage in drugs, cosmetics, or any other industry. It is legal and well-organised activity undertaken by governments and private sector.
However, it should not be confused with biopiracy which refers to the illegal or unlawful usage of purposeful plants or other species which prevents its general usage to certain parties providing commercial benefits to others.
Actions against biopiracy are taken by National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) as mandated under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The discoveries based on traditional Indigenous knowledge or the wealth of biodiversity in developing countries can end up being exported and patented without proper credit or compensation, in what’s colourfully known as biopiracy.
Incorrect
Answer. D
Explanation: Bioprospecting is defined as a systematic and organized search for useful products derived from bioresources including plants, microorganisms, animals, etc., that can be developed further for commercialization and overall benefits of the society.
It involves research for potential usage of any animal or plant species for economic purposes such as usage in drugs, cosmetics, or any other industry. It is legal and well-organised activity undertaken by governments and private sector.
However, it should not be confused with biopiracy which refers to the illegal or unlawful usage of purposeful plants or other species which prevents its general usage to certain parties providing commercial benefits to others.
Actions against biopiracy are taken by National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) as mandated under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The discoveries based on traditional Indigenous knowledge or the wealth of biodiversity in developing countries can end up being exported and patented without proper credit or compensation, in what’s colourfully known as biopiracy.
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Question 8 of 10
8. Question
Consider the following:
1. Oxides of Nitrogen
2. Dioxins
3. Oxides of Sulphur
4. Asbestos
How many of the above pollutants are released by the cement industries?
Correct
Answer. D
Explanation: Options 1, 2, 3, and 4 are correct.
The cement industry is considered to be one of the most polluting industries contributing in the release of following pollutants:
-
- Sulphur dioxide,
- Nitrogen oxide
- Carbon monoxide
- Carbon dioxide
- Particulate matter
- Asbestos
- Dioxins
Cement production releases 5–6% of all carbon dioxide generated by human activities, accounting for about 4% of global warming. It can release huge amounts of persistent organic pollutants, such as dioxins and heavy metals and particles.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring thin crystalline long fiber which when used for the preparation of concrete improves the fresh and hardened properties of concrete such as compressive and flexural strength. When exposed to weathering and erosion, particularly when used on roofs, the surface deterioration of asbestos cement can release toxic airborne fibres. Exposure to asbestos causes or increases the risk of several life-threatening diseases, including asbestosis, pleural mesothelioma (lung), and peritoneal mesothelioma.
Gaseous atmospheric emissions of CO2, NOx, SO2, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Carbon dioxide is released during the production of clinker, a component of cement, in which calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is heated in a rotary kiln to induce a series of complex chemical reactions.
Specifically, CO2 is released as a by-product during calcination, which occurs in the upper, cooler end of the kiln, or a pre calciner, at temperatures of 600-900°C, and results in the conversion of carbonates to oxides.
Sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides generated from the kiln and drying processes.
Volatile organic carbon compounds (VOCs) are a class of chemicals that are emitted directly to the air as a result of evaporation or another type of volatilization. Sources include stored gasoline, stored solvents and other industrial chemicals, and certain industrial processes. Incomplete combustion of fuels of many types is also an important source of VOC discharge to the ambient air.
HEALTH EFFECTS of pollutants released from the cement industry:
Asbestos The amount of asbestos and duration of exposure has a compounding effect. The more asbestos exposure a worker had and the longer they were exposed significantly increased the odds of developing mesothelioma. Inhaled airborne asbestos fibers attach to the lung lining or mesothelium.
Oxides of Nitrogen Nitrogen oxide (NOx) can cause or contribute to a variety of health problems and adverse environmental impacts, such as ground-level ozone, acid rain, global warming, water quality deterioration, and visual impairment. Affected populations include children, people with lung diseases such as asthma, and exposure to these conditions can cause damage to lung tissue for people who work or exercise outside. Oxides of Sulphur Sulphur dioxide (SO2) in high concentrations can affect breathing and may aggravate existing respiratory and cardiovascular disease. Sensitive populations include asthmatics, individuals with bronchitis or emphysema, children, and the elderly. SO2 is also a primary contributor to acid deposition, or acid rain. Carbon monoxide Carbon monoxide (CO) can cause harmful health effects by reducing oxygen delivery to the body’s organs and tissues, as well as adverse effects on the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. CO also contributes to the formation of smog (ground-level ozone), which can cause respiratory problems. Carbon dioxide CO2 is considered to be minimally toxic by inhalation. The primary health effects caused by CO2 are the result of its behavior as a simple asphyxiant. A simple asphyxiant is a gas which reduces or displaces the normal oxygen in breathing air. Symptoms of mild CO2 exposure may include headache and drowsiness. At higher levels, rapid breathing, confusion, increased cardiac output, elevated blood pressure and increased arrhythmias may occur.
Breathing oxygen depleted air caused by extreme CO2 concentrations can lead to death by suffocation.
Incorrect
Answer. D
Explanation: Options 1, 2, 3, and 4 are correct.
The cement industry is considered to be one of the most polluting industries contributing in the release of following pollutants:
-
- Sulphur dioxide,
- Nitrogen oxide
- Carbon monoxide
- Carbon dioxide
- Particulate matter
- Asbestos
- Dioxins
Cement production releases 5–6% of all carbon dioxide generated by human activities, accounting for about 4% of global warming. It can release huge amounts of persistent organic pollutants, such as dioxins and heavy metals and particles.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring thin crystalline long fiber which when used for the preparation of concrete improves the fresh and hardened properties of concrete such as compressive and flexural strength. When exposed to weathering and erosion, particularly when used on roofs, the surface deterioration of asbestos cement can release toxic airborne fibres. Exposure to asbestos causes or increases the risk of several life-threatening diseases, including asbestosis, pleural mesothelioma (lung), and peritoneal mesothelioma.
Gaseous atmospheric emissions of CO2, NOx, SO2, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Carbon dioxide is released during the production of clinker, a component of cement, in which calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is heated in a rotary kiln to induce a series of complex chemical reactions.
Specifically, CO2 is released as a by-product during calcination, which occurs in the upper, cooler end of the kiln, or a pre calciner, at temperatures of 600-900°C, and results in the conversion of carbonates to oxides.
Sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides generated from the kiln and drying processes.
Volatile organic carbon compounds (VOCs) are a class of chemicals that are emitted directly to the air as a result of evaporation or another type of volatilization. Sources include stored gasoline, stored solvents and other industrial chemicals, and certain industrial processes. Incomplete combustion of fuels of many types is also an important source of VOC discharge to the ambient air.
HEALTH EFFECTS of pollutants released from the cement industry:
Asbestos The amount of asbestos and duration of exposure has a compounding effect. The more asbestos exposure a worker had and the longer they were exposed significantly increased the odds of developing mesothelioma. Inhaled airborne asbestos fibers attach to the lung lining or mesothelium.
Oxides of Nitrogen Nitrogen oxide (NOx) can cause or contribute to a variety of health problems and adverse environmental impacts, such as ground-level ozone, acid rain, global warming, water quality deterioration, and visual impairment. Affected populations include children, people with lung diseases such as asthma, and exposure to these conditions can cause damage to lung tissue for people who work or exercise outside. Oxides of Sulphur Sulphur dioxide (SO2) in high concentrations can affect breathing and may aggravate existing respiratory and cardiovascular disease. Sensitive populations include asthmatics, individuals with bronchitis or emphysema, children, and the elderly. SO2 is also a primary contributor to acid deposition, or acid rain. Carbon monoxide Carbon monoxide (CO) can cause harmful health effects by reducing oxygen delivery to the body’s organs and tissues, as well as adverse effects on the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. CO also contributes to the formation of smog (ground-level ozone), which can cause respiratory problems. Carbon dioxide CO2 is considered to be minimally toxic by inhalation. The primary health effects caused by CO2 are the result of its behavior as a simple asphyxiant. A simple asphyxiant is a gas which reduces or displaces the normal oxygen in breathing air. Symptoms of mild CO2 exposure may include headache and drowsiness. At higher levels, rapid breathing, confusion, increased cardiac output, elevated blood pressure and increased arrhythmias may occur.
Breathing oxygen depleted air caused by extreme CO2 concentrations can lead to death by suffocation.
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Question 9 of 10
9. Question
Consider the following statements about Old World Vultures:
1. They live in Africa, Europe, and Asia.
2. They have storks as their common ancestor.
Which one of the statements given above is/are incorrect?
Correct
Answer. B
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Old World vultures live in Africa, Europe, and Asia whereas the New World Vulture species live in North and South America. Total, there are 23 species of vulture across the world, with 16 in the Old World and 7 in the New World.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Old World vultures likely came from a common ancestor with hawks and eagles, whereas New World vultures likely come from a relative of storks.
Old World vultures belong to the family Accipitridae, which also includes the eagles, buzzards, kites and hawks. New World vultures belong to the family Cathartidae, that includes condors.
A significant difference between the two groups is that Old World vultures do not have a good sense of smell and thus locate their meals by sight, whereas New World vultures have a keen sense of smell and sharp eyesight.
New World Vultures Old World Vultures Black vultures Turkey vulture
Condors
King vulture
Yellow-headed vulture
White-backed vulture Hooded vulture
Rüppell’s vulture
White-headed vulture
Cape griffon vulture
Egyptian vulture
Lappet-faced vulture, also known as the Nubian vulture
Etc.
Incorrect
Answer. B
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Old World vultures live in Africa, Europe, and Asia whereas the New World Vulture species live in North and South America. Total, there are 23 species of vulture across the world, with 16 in the Old World and 7 in the New World.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Old World vultures likely came from a common ancestor with hawks and eagles, whereas New World vultures likely come from a relative of storks.
Old World vultures belong to the family Accipitridae, which also includes the eagles, buzzards, kites and hawks. New World vultures belong to the family Cathartidae, that includes condors.
A significant difference between the two groups is that Old World vultures do not have a good sense of smell and thus locate their meals by sight, whereas New World vultures have a keen sense of smell and sharp eyesight.
New World Vultures Old World Vultures Black vultures Turkey vulture
Condors
King vulture
Yellow-headed vulture
White-backed vulture Hooded vulture
Rüppell’s vulture
White-headed vulture
Cape griffon vulture
Egyptian vulture
Lappet-faced vulture, also known as the Nubian vulture
Etc.
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Question 10 of 10
10. Question
Consider the following species:
1. Moths
2. Butterflies
3. Tree frogs
How many of the above are the examples of indicator species?
Correct
Answer. C
Explanation: Options 1, 2 and 3 are correct.
An indicator species is a species or group of species chosen as an indicator of, or proxy for, the state of an ecosystem or of a certain process within that ecosystem.
Examples include:
-
- crayfish as indicators of freshwater quality;
- corals as indicators of marine processes such as siltation, seawater rise and sea temperature fluctuation;
- peregrine falcons as an indicator of pesticide loads; or native plants as indicators for the presence and impact of alien species.
Insects are one of the most commonly used bioindicators. They are sensitive to even the slightest environmental changes and are also used to monitor different environmental toxins. Butterflies, in particular, have been shown to be good ecological indicators as they quickly respond to changes in the environment such as community dynamics and/or vegetation patterns that influence their species composition.
Since moths are so widespread and found in so many different habitats, and are so sensitive to changes, moths are particularly useful as indicator species. Monitoring their numbers and ranges can give us vital clues to changes in our own environment, such as the effects of new farming practices, pesticides, air pollution and climate change.
One thing that makes frogs, toads and salamanders such sensitive environmental indicators is their skin. Because their skin is so porous and absorbs gases, like oxygen, and liquids, like water, amphibians at all stages of life are sensitive to environmental changes, especially many types of pollution that may be in the atmosphere, water or soil.
The table given below lists some of the important indicator species:
Incorrect
Answer. C
Explanation: Options 1, 2 and 3 are correct.
An indicator species is a species or group of species chosen as an indicator of, or proxy for, the state of an ecosystem or of a certain process within that ecosystem.
Examples include:
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- crayfish as indicators of freshwater quality;
- corals as indicators of marine processes such as siltation, seawater rise and sea temperature fluctuation;
- peregrine falcons as an indicator of pesticide loads; or native plants as indicators for the presence and impact of alien species.
Insects are one of the most commonly used bioindicators. They are sensitive to even the slightest environmental changes and are also used to monitor different environmental toxins. Butterflies, in particular, have been shown to be good ecological indicators as they quickly respond to changes in the environment such as community dynamics and/or vegetation patterns that influence their species composition.
Since moths are so widespread and found in so many different habitats, and are so sensitive to changes, moths are particularly useful as indicator species. Monitoring their numbers and ranges can give us vital clues to changes in our own environment, such as the effects of new farming practices, pesticides, air pollution and climate change.
One thing that makes frogs, toads and salamanders such sensitive environmental indicators is their skin. Because their skin is so porous and absorbs gases, like oxygen, and liquids, like water, amphibians at all stages of life are sensitive to environmental changes, especially many types of pollution that may be in the atmosphere, water or soil.
The table given below lists some of the important indicator species:
