All questions of Aquatic Ecosystem for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

The correct answer is option 'D' - Mandatory creation of marine parks in all CRZ-IV areas. This is not a feature of the CRZ Notification, 2018.

The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2018 was introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in January 2019. It aimed to streamline the coastal regulation process and provide a framework for sustainable development and conservation of coastal areas.

Let's discuss the features of the CRZ Notification, 2018 to understand why option 'D' is the correct answer:

1. Streamlining of CRZ clearances:
- The notification aimed to simplify and streamline the process of obtaining clearances for various activities in the coastal areas.
- The classification of CRZ areas was rationalized into four categories (CRZ-I, CRZ-II, CRZ-III, and CRZ-IV) based on their ecological sensitivity and development needs.

2. De-freezing of Floor Space Index (FSI) in CRZ-II areas:
- The CRZ Notification, 2018 allowed the state and Union Territory governments to formulate their own policies for construction activities in CRZ-II areas.
- The earlier restriction on the FSI was removed, giving more flexibility to the local authorities to decide on the permissible FSI.

3. Establishment of a hazard line for coastal areas:
- The notification introduced the concept of a hazard line, which is a line demarcating the area likely to be affected by coastal hazards such as sea-level rise, storms, and erosion.
- It aimed to regulate development activities and prevent construction in areas prone to hazards, ensuring the safety of coastal communities.

4. Mandatory creation of marine parks in all CRZ-IV areas:
- This statement is not a feature of the CRZ Notification, 2018.
- CRZ-IV areas are designated as the areas that are undeveloped or lightly developed, and they have been excluded from the purview of the CRZ Notification, 2018.
- The notification does not mandate the creation of marine parks in CRZ-IV areas.

In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'D' - Mandatory creation of marine parks in all CRZ-IV areas. This is not a feature of the CRZ Notification, 2018. The notification focuses on streamlining clearances, de-freezing FSI in CRZ-II areas, and establishing a hazard line for coastal areas.

Periphyton as Attached Organisms to Plants

Periphyton is a group of organisms that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of rooted plants or substances emerging above the bottom mud. They are also known as benthic algae or epiphyton.

The term “periphyton” is derived from the Greek words peri, meaning “around,” and phyton, meaning “plant.” These organisms include various types of algae, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa.

Periphyton is commonly found in freshwater and marine environments. They play an important role in the aquatic ecosystem by providing food and shelter for many aquatic species.

Importance of Periphyton

Periphyton plays an essential role in the aquatic ecosystem as they are the primary producers. They produce their food through photosynthesis, which is the process of converting sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into organic matter.

Periphyton provides food for many aquatic organisms such as fish, snails, and insects. It also provides a habitat for small aquatic animals, including worms, insects, and crustaceans.

Periphyton is also important in nutrient cycling. They absorb and recycle nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which are essential for the growth of plants and other aquatic organisms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, periphyton is a group of organisms that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of rooted plants or substances emerging above the bottom mud. They are important in the aquatic ecosystem as they provide food, shelter, and play a vital role in nutrient cycling.

An Estuary is a semi-enclosed coastal body of water with one or more rivers or streams flowing into it.

• It has a free connection with the open sea.
• The complete salinity range from 0-35 ppt is seen from the head (river end) to the mouth (see end) of an estuary.
• An estuary has very little wave action, so it provides a calm refuge from the open sea.
• It provides the shelter for some of the animals.

Point source: Directly attributable to one influence; In point source nutrient waste travels directly from source to water; Point sources are easy to regulate.

The Blue Flag Certification
The Blue Flag certification is a globally recognized eco-label awarded to beaches and marinas that adhere to strict environmental, safety, and accessibility criteria.
Criteria for Blue Flag Certification
To be awarded the Blue Flag, a beach or marina must meet rigorous standards across several key areas:
- Environmental Management:
- Maintenance of clean and well-managed facilities.
- Implementation of waste management practices.
- Water Quality:
- Compliance with excellent water quality standards.
- Regular monitoring and testing of water quality.
- Safety and Services:
- Provision of essential safety measures, such as lifeguards and first aid services.
- Availability of clean and accessible sanitary facilities.
- Environmental Education:
- Promotion of environmental education and awareness programs.
- Information on local ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Global Recognition
- The Blue Flag program is managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and is operational in over 50 countries worldwide.
- It serves as a recognition of the commitment to sustainable tourism and responsible environmental practices.
Benefits of Blue Flag Certification
- Enhances the reputation of beaches and marinas as safe and clean destinations.
- Attracts environmentally conscious tourists, boosting local economies.
- Encourages communities to engage in sustainable development practices.
In summary, the Blue Flag certification not only signifies compliance with high environmental and safety standards but also promotes awareness and education regarding marine and coastal ecosystems. Thus, the statement is indeed true.

• Lakes are also classified based on their water chemistry. Based on the levels of salinity, they are known as Freshwater, Brackish or Saline lakes (similar to that of classification of the aquatic ecosystem).
• Based on their nutrient content, they are categorized as Oligotrophic (very low nutrients), Mesotrophic (moderate nutrients) and Eutrophic (highly nutrient-rich). • Vast majority of lakes in India are either eutrophic or mesotrophic because of the nutrients derived from their surroundings or organic wastes entering them.

Explanation of the Correct Answer
The evaluation of the two statements regarding the Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM) project reveals important insights.
Statement 1: True
- The ICMAM project was indeed launched in 1998.
- Its primary objective is the integrated management of coastal and marine areas, focusing on sustainable development.
- It aims to balance environmental, economic, and social factors in coastal regions.
Statement 2: False
- The primary focus of ICMAM is not solely on industrial development.
- Instead, it emphasizes sustainable management and conservation of coastal and marine ecosystems.
- The project addresses various aspects such as biodiversity conservation, pollution control, and community involvement, rather than prioritizing industrial growth.
Conclusion
- Since Statement 1 accurately reflects the goals of the ICMAM project, while Statement 2 misrepresents its intentions, the correct interpretation is:
Statement 1 is true, Statement 2 is false.
Thus, the correct answer is option 'C'.

Effects of Eutrophication:

1. Decreased Turbidity:
- Eutrophication leads to the growth of algae and other aquatic plants, which can decrease the turbidity of water bodies.
- This can affect navigation and reduce the amount of light that penetrates the water, which can harm aquatic plants and animals.

2. Increased biomass of inedible toxic phytoplankton:
- Eutrophication can lead to the growth of inedible toxic phytoplankton, which can be harmful to aquatic organisms and humans.
- These phytoplankton can produce toxins that can cause fish kills, shellfish poisoning, and even illness in humans who consume contaminated seafood.

3. Increase in the bloom of gelatinous zooplankton:
- Eutrophication can also lead to the growth of gelatinous zooplankton, such as jellyfish.
- These blooms can be harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms by competing for resources, and can even cause fish kills.

4. Increase the biomass of benthic and epiphytic algae:
- Eutrophication can lead to an increase in the biomass of benthic and epiphytic algae.
- This can lead to the smothering of other aquatic plants, which can harm fish and other aquatic organisms that rely on these plants for food and habitat.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 'B' as all the given statements except statement 1 are correct.

Statement Analysis:

Statement 1:
The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau focuses on strengthening enforcement of laws and controlling poaching.

Statement 2:
Coral reefs are included in Schedule 2 of the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972.

Explanation:
- The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) is a statutory multi-disciplinary body established by the Government of India under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to combat organized wildlife crime in the country. It focuses on strengthening enforcement of laws related to wildlife protection, prevention of wildlife crimes such as poaching, smuggling of endangered species, illegal trade in wildlife and their derivatives.
- The Wild Life Protection Act, 1972 is an important legislation in India for the protection of wildlife and biodiversity. Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 of the Act provide different levels of protection to various species. Coral reefs, being an important part of marine ecosystems, are not specifically listed in Schedule 2 of the Act. They may be indirectly protected under various provisions of the Act related to the conservation of biodiversity and protection of habitats.

Conclusion:
- Statement 1 is true as the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau does focus on strengthening enforcement of laws and controlling poaching.
- Statement 2 is false as coral reefs are not specifically included in Schedule 2 of the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972.

Explanation:

1. Photic Zone Definition:
- The first statement is correct. The photic zone is the lighted and usually well-mixed portion of a lake that extends from the surface down to where the light level is 1% of that at the surface.

2. Respiration Activity:
- The second statement is also correct. Respiration activity takes place in the photic zone, as it is the layer where photosynthetic organisms like algae and phytoplankton can thrive and produce oxygen through photosynthesis.

3. Depth Dependence on Water Transparency:
- The third statement is correct as well. The depth of the photic zone depends on the transparency of the water. Clearer water allows light to penetrate deeper, resulting in a deeper photic zone, while murky or turbid water may limit the depth of the zone.
Therefore, all the given statements about the photic zone are correct. It is an essential layer in lakes where light penetration supports primary production and sustains the aquatic ecosystem.

National Lake Conservation Programme (NLCP) Definition

The National Lake Conservation Programme (NLCP) is a programme initiated by the Government of India to conserve and manage the country's lakes. According to this programme, lakes are considered as standing water bodies that have a minimum water depth of 3 m, generally cover a water spread of more than ten hectares, and have no or very little aquatic vegetation.

Correct statement/s:

All of the above statements are correct as per the National Lake Conservation Programme (NLCP).

Explanation:

The National Lake Conservation Programme (NLCP) is a programme initiated by the Government of India to conserve and manage the country's lakes. According to this programme, lakes are considered as standing water bodies that have a minimum water depth of 3 m, generally cover a water spread of more than ten hectares, and have no or very little aquatic vegetation.

The first statement, "Have a minimum water depth of 3 m" is correct. This means that the water depth of a lake should be at least 3 meters to be considered as a lake.

The second statement, "Generally cover a water spread of more than ten hectares" is also correct. This means that the water body should generally cover an area of more than ten hectares to be considered as a lake.

The third statement, "Have no or very little aquatic vegetation" is also correct. This means that the lake should have no or very little aquatic vegetation to be considered as a lake. Aquatic vegetation can be harmful to the lake's ecosystem and can cause imbalances in the lake's water quality.

Therefore, all of the above statements are correct as per the National Lake Conservation Programme (NLCP).

• Nitrogen testing & modelling
• N-Testing is a technique to find the optimum amount of fertilizer required for crop plants.
• It will reduce the amount of nitrogen lost to the surrounding area.
• Treatment of Industrial effluents
• Organic farming & Integrated Farming System.
• Reduction in livestock densities

• The mangroves of Sundarbans are the largest single block of tidal halophytic mangroves of the world.
• The mangroves of Bhitarkanika (Orissa), which is the second largest in the Indian subcontinent, harbour high mangroves found in Gulf of Kachchh, to taller stands found in the Sunderbans.
• On the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the small tidal estuaries, neritic inlets and the lagoons support a dense and diverse undisturbed mangrove flora.

Explanation:

The correct answer is option 'B', which means that statement 2 only is correct.

Water requires more energy to change its temperature because of its high heat capacity. This means that it takes a larger amount of heat energy to raise or lower the temperature of water compared to air.

Let's break down the given statements to understand why option 'B' is correct:

Statement 1: The water temperature changes more rapidly than the temperature of the air.

This statement is incorrect. In fact, the temperature of water changes more slowly than the temperature of air. This is because water has a higher specific heat capacity than air.

Specific heat capacity is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of one unit of mass of a substance by one degree Celsius. Water has a higher specific heat capacity than air, which means that it takes more energy to raise the temperature of water than it does to raise the temperature of air.

Statement 2: Larger amounts of heat energy must be added to or taken away from water to raise or lower its temperature.

This statement is correct. As mentioned earlier, water has a higher specific heat capacity than air, which means that it takes a larger amount of heat energy to raise or lower the temperature of water compared to air.

In practical terms, this means that water can absorb a lot of heat energy from the environment without experiencing a large change in temperature. This is why large bodies of water, such as oceans and lakes, take a long time to warm up or cool down.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, statement 2 is correct because water has a higher specific heat capacity than air, which means that it takes a larger amount of heat energy to raise or lower the temperature of water compared to air. Statement 1 is incorrect because the temperature of water changes more slowly than the temperature of air due to water's higher specific heat capacity.