Important Questions Test: The Living Organisms - Characteristics & Habitats - UPSC MCQ

Presence of features which enable plants and animals to live in a habitat is called adaptation.

The organism is not an abiotic component of the ecosystem. It includes plants, animals, and humans. Resources that are non-living are abiotic resources. These resources fall under the broader category of natural resources that exist naturally in the world and are not man-made or man-made.

Aquatic animals use gills for respiration.

Streamlined body and Gills helps them to swim.

Correct Answer is  B) Respiration is the process by which living organisms obtain energy from food.

• Stomata are pores that control the rate of gas exchange and are found in the epidermis of leaves, stems, and other organs.
• If the stomata are present on the plant's lower surface, they will be less exposed to the sun and more shielded from the breeze.
• Transpiration is the water loss through stomata which will be enhanced if more stomata are present on the upper surface due to exposure to the sunlight. Hence, the lower surface has more stomata to prevent excessive water loss.

Answer:
The removal of waste substances from the body is called excretion. Here is a detailed explanation:
Definition:
Excretion is the process by which waste products and toxins are eliminated from the body. It is an essential function of living organisms to maintain homeostasis and prevent the accumulation of harmful substances.
Process of excretion:
1. Urinary System: The kidneys filter waste products, excess water, and toxins from the blood to produce urine. Urine is then excreted through the urinary system, which includes the ureters, bladder, and urethra.
2. Respiratory System: The respiratory system eliminates carbon dioxide, a waste product of cellular respiration, through exhalation. Oxygen is taken in during inhalation, and carbon dioxide is expelled during exhalation.
3. Digestive System: The digestive system eliminates undigested food and other waste materials through defecation. The large intestine absorbs water from waste products, forming solid stools that are excreted through the rectum and anus.
4. Skin: The skin plays a role in excretion through perspiration or sweat. Sweating helps regulate body temperature and eliminates certain waste products such as urea and salts.
Importance of excretion:
- Excretion helps maintain the balance of substances within the body, preventing the buildup of toxins.
- It ensures the removal of metabolic waste products, such as urea and carbon dioxide, which can be harmful if accumulated.
- Excretion is essential for maintaining homeostasis and overall health.
In conclusion, excretion is the process of removing waste substances from the body. It involves various systems and organs working together to eliminate waste products and maintain a healthy internal environment.

Decay is one of the features which is not a property of living beings. It can take place only after the death of a person where metabolism, reproduction and growth are characteristic of living beings.

The structural and functional unit of all living things is the cell.
- Cells are the building blocks of life and are responsible for carrying out all essential functions in organisms.
- They are the smallest units of life and are capable of reproducing, growing, and responding to their environment.
- Cells vary in size, shape, and function, but they all share certain characteristics, such as a cell membrane, genetic material, and the ability to convert nutrients into energy.
- Cells can be classified into two main types: prokaryotic cells, which lack a nucleus, and eukaryotic cells, which have a nucleus.
- Prokaryotic cells are found in bacteria and archaea, while eukaryotic cells are found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists.
- Within multicellular organisms, cells can specialize and form different types of tissues, organs, and organ systems to carry out specific functions.
- However, even specialized cells still maintain their basic characteristics and rely on the interactions between different cell types to maintain overall organismal function.
- The discovery and understanding of cells have revolutionized our understanding of biology and have led to advancements in fields such as medicine and biotechnology.

The correct answer is C: fins and tails.
Fishes are adapted to their aquatic environment and use various structures to move efficiently in water. Here is a detailed explanation of how fishes move with the help of their fins and tails:
1. Fins:
- Fins are appendages that extend from the fish's body and aid in swimming and maneuvering.
- There are different types of fins, including dorsal fins (on the back), pectoral fins (on the sides near the head), pelvic fins (on the underside), and anal fins (near the tail).
- Each fin has a specific function:
- Dorsal fins provide stability and prevent rolling over.
- Pectoral fins control the direction of movement and provide lift.
- Pelvic fins provide stability and assist in turning.
- Anal fins also contribute to stability and help in steering.
2. Tails:
- The tail, also known as the caudal fin, is the main propulsive structure for fish locomotion.
- The shape and movement of the tail vary among different fish species, allowing them to swim efficiently in different environments.
- The tail consists of two lobes: the upper lobe (dorsal) and the lower lobe (ventral).
- The upper lobe generates downward force, while the lower lobe generates upward force, creating a forward thrust that propels the fish through the water.
Summary:
Fishes move with the help of their fins and tails. Fins provide stability, control direction, and assist in maneuvering, while the tail is the main propulsive structure that generates thrust for forward movement. Understanding the functions of these appendages helps fish to swim effectively and navigate their aquatic habitats.

Explanation:
The animal that can live both on land and in water is the Frog.
Reasons:
- Frogs are amphibians, which means they have the ability to live both on land and in water.
- They have specialized adaptations that allow them to survive in both environments.
- Frogs have lungs for breathing on land and also have moist skin that helps them absorb oxygen from the water.
- They have webbed feet that are suitable for swimming in water and also for hopping on land.
- Frogs lay their eggs in water, and their tadpoles live in water until they develop into adult frogs.
- Adult frogs can live in a variety of habitats, including ponds, lakes, rivers, and forests.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the animal that can live both on land and in water is the frog. Frogs have specialized adaptations that allow them to thrive in both environments, making them amphibious creatures.

The aquatic plant that grows completely submerged in water is Hydrilla.
- Hydrilla: Hydrilla is an aquatic plant that grows completely submerged in water. It is a common freshwater plant that is often considered an invasive species. It has long, slender stems with whorls of small, pointed leaves. Hydrilla can grow in a variety of aquatic habitats such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers.
- Water hyacinth: Water hyacinth is a floating aquatic plant that has long, thick roots that dangle in the water. It does not grow completely submerged in water.
- Water lily: Water lilies are floating aquatic plants with large, round leaves and showy flowers. They typically have long stalks that attach the leaves and flowers to the water's surface. Water lilies do not grow completely submerged in water.
- Lotus: Lotus is a floating aquatic plant with large, round leaves and fragrant flowers. It has long stalks that attach the leaves and flowers to the water's surface. Lotus does not grow completely submerged in water.
In conclusion, the aquatic plant that grows completely submerged in water is Hydrilla.

To determine which one of the following is not a terrestrial habitat, we need to understand the meaning of terrestrial and identify the options that do not fit this category.
Terrestrial habitats are those that are found on land, rather than in water or the air.
Let's analyze each option to determine if it is a terrestrial habitat or not:
A: Ocean
- The ocean is a large body of saltwater that covers a significant portion of the Earth's surface. It is not a terrestrial habitat because it is a water habitat.
B: Soil
- Soil is the upper layer of Earth's crust that supports plant growth. It is a terrestrial habitat as it is found on land.
C: Tree
- A tree is a tall plant with a trunk and branches. While trees grow on land, they are not considered terrestrial habitats themselves. However, they do provide habitats for other organisms.
D: Desert
- A desert is a dry, barren area that receives little rainfall. It is a terrestrial habitat as it is found on land.
Based on the analysis above, the correct answer is A: Ocean as it is not a terrestrial habitat.

Scales provide protection from the environment and from predators

Animals that have gills:
- Squids
- Fish
-shark
Animals that do not have gills:
- Dolphin
 

Animal that Lives on Land and in Water with a Tail and Scales
- The correct answer is crocodile.
- Crocodiles are reptiles that have adapted to live both on land and in water.
- They have a long, muscular tail that helps them swim efficiently in water.
- The body of a crocodile is covered with tough, scaly skin that provides protection.
- Crocodiles have strong limbs with clawed feet, allowing them to move on land.
- They have a streamlined body shape and powerful jaws, making them formidable predators in both environments.
- Crocodiles are found in various habitats, including rivers, lakes, swamps, and mangroves.
- They can regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun on land or by submerging themselves in water.
- Crocodiles are excellent swimmers and can move swiftly through the water using their tail.
- Despite their ability to live on land, crocodiles are primarily aquatic creatures, relying on water for hunting and survival.
Other Options:
- Shark: Sharks are strictly aquatic animals and do not have limbs or the ability to live on land.
- Frog: Frogs are amphibians that live both on land and in water but do not have a tail or scales.
- Fish: Fish are aquatic animals that have tails and scales, but they do not live on land.

Yaks have hair to keep them warm.
Explanation:
- Yaks are a species of large, long-haired mammals that are native to the Himalayan region of Asia.
- Hair is an important adaptation that helps yaks survive in their cold and harsh environments.
- The hair on a yak's body provides insulation, helping to retain body heat and keep them warm.
- Yaks have a thick double coat of hair consisting of a coarse outer layer and a soft inner layer.
- The outer layer of hair helps to protect the yak from the elements, such as snow, wind, and rain.
- The inner layer of hair acts as an insulating layer, trapping warm air close to the yak's body.
- The combination of these two layers of hair helps to keep the yak warm in extremely cold temperatures.
- Yaks also have longer hair around their necks and shoulders, forming a "mane" that provides additional insulation and protection.
- This hair also helps to keep the yak's skin dry by repelling moisture.
- Yaks have evolved to have hair as their primary defense against the cold, unlike other animals that may have feathers, scales, or shells.

Sunlight, water, and air are abiotic components. Here is a detailed explanation:
Abiotic components:
- Abiotic components refer to the non-living elements in an ecosystem.
- They are essential for the survival and functioning of living organisms.
- These components include physical and chemical factors such as sunlight, water, air, soil, temperature, etc.
- Sunlight, water, and air are considered abiotic components because they are non-living and form the basic necessities for life.
Sunlight:
- Sunlight is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun.
- It provides energy for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into chemical energy.
- Sunlight is crucial for the growth and development of plants, which are the primary producers in an ecosystem.
- It plays a vital role in determining the climate and temperature of an area.
Water:
- Water is a vital resource for all living organisms.
- It is essential for hydration, nutrient transport, and waste removal in organisms.
- Water is a habitat for many aquatic organisms and supports their survival.
- It is involved in various ecological processes such as the water cycle and nutrient cycling.
Air:
- Air is a mixture of gases, primarily nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and traces of other gases.
- It is crucial for the process of respiration in organisms, providing oxygen and removing carbon dioxide.
- Air also plays a role in the dispersal of seeds and pollen.
- It influences weather patterns and is involved in the carbon cycle.
In conclusion, sunlight, water, and air are abiotic components that are essential for the functioning and survival of living organisms in an ecosystem. They provide energy, hydration, and support various ecological processes.

The non-living thing among the following options is:
A: log piece
Explanation:
- A log piece is a section of a tree that has been cut or fallen down. It is an inanimate object and does not possess life.
- Trees, such as option B, are living organisms that grow, reproduce, and respond to their environment.
- Grasshoppers, like option C, are living creatures belonging to the animal kingdom.
- Dogs, like option D, are living beings and are members of the animal kingdom as well.
Therefore, the non-living thing among the given options is the log piece.

Things that can move by themselves:

• Bird: Birds have wings and can fly, allowing them to move independently.


• Cat: Cats have four legs and are capable of walking, running, and jumping, enabling them to move on their own.


• Cow: Cows have four legs and can walk or run, allowing them to move independently.

Thing that cannot move by itself:

• Cycle: A cycle is an inanimate object and does not have the ability to move by itself. It requires a rider to pedal and control its movement.

Therefore, the correct answer is B: Cycle. Unlike birds, cats, and cows, a cycle cannot move on its own and requires external force to propel it forward.

Which of the following things can reproduce?

Let's analyze each option to determine which one can reproduce:

Option A: Stone

A stone is an inanimate object and cannot reproduce. Reproduction is a characteristic of living organisms.

Option B: Dog

A dog is a living organism and can reproduce. Dogs can mate and produce offspring through sexual reproduction.

Option C: Bag

A bag is an inanimate object and cannot reproduce. Reproduction is a characteristic of living organisms.

Option D: Toy

A toy is an inanimate object and cannot reproduce. Reproduction is a characteristic of living organisms.

Answer: B (Dog)

Out of the given options, only a dog is a living organism capable of reproduction. Dogs can reproduce through sexual reproduction.

The leaves of mimosa  plant fold up quickly when touched with a hand. This is known as. Thigmonasty

Answer:
Reproduction is a fundamental process in the animal kingdom. While there are various ways animals reproduce, some animals give birth to young ones. In this case, the animal that reproduces by giving birth to young ones is the Giraffe.
Explanation:
The process of reproduction in animals can be categorized into two main types: sexual reproduction and asexual reproduction. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female gametes, resulting in the birth of young ones. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand, does not involve the fusion of gametes and can occur through methods such as budding, fragmentation, or parthenogenesis.
Among the options given, the Giraffe is the only animal that gives birth to live young ones. The other options have different modes of reproduction:
1. Frog: Frogs undergo external fertilization, where the female lays eggs and the male releases sperm to fertilize them. The eggs develop into tadpoles, which later metamorphose into adult frogs.
2. Crocodile: Crocodiles are reptiles that lay eggs. The female crocodile builds a nest and lays her eggs there. The eggs are later incubated by the heat of the sun, and the hatchlings emerge from the eggs.
3. Turtle: Turtles are also reptiles that reproduce by laying eggs. The female turtle lays her eggs on land, typically in sandy areas or beaches. The eggs are left to incubate, and the hatchlings make their way to the water after hatching.
In conclusion, the Giraffe is the animal that gives birth to live young ones, making it unique among the given options.

Explanation:
- Air, water, and rocks are considered abiotic components.
- Abiotic components refer to non-living factors in an ecosystem.
- They play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining the environment.
- Air is a mixture of gases, including oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen, which are essential for supporting life.
- Water is a vital resource for all living organisms, serving as a habitat, a medium for chemical reactions, and a means of transportation.
- Rocks make up the Earth's crust and provide a foundation for ecosystems, as well as serving as a source of minerals and nutrients.
- Biotic components, on the other hand, refer to living organisms such as plants, animals, and microorganisms.
- In conclusion, air, water, and rocks are abiotic components of an ecosystem.

Answer:
Explanation:
Cactus plants are specifically adapted to live in desert regions. They have numerous adaptations that allow them to survive in arid and dry environments. Here is a detailed explanation of why cactus plants live in deserts:
Adaptations of cactus plants for desert survival:
- Water storage: Cactus plants have thick, fleshy stems and leaves that can store water for long periods of time. This enables them to survive in areas with limited water availability.
- Reduced surface area: Cactus plants have evolved to have reduced surface area to minimize water loss through transpiration. Their leaves are modified into spines, which help to reduce water loss and protect the plant from herbivores.
- CAM photosynthesis: Cactus plants utilize a specialized form of photosynthesis called Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). This allows them to open their stomata at night to minimize water loss and carry out photosynthesis during the day.
- Root adaptations: Cactus plants have extensive root systems that can quickly absorb water from the soil when it becomes available. They also have shallow roots that can capture rainfall efficiently.
- Tolerance to extreme temperatures: Cactus plants are adapted to withstand high temperatures during the day and low temperatures at night, common in desert environments.
- Protection from predators: The spines on cactus plants help deter herbivores from consuming them.
Conclusion:
Cactus plants are specifically adapted to survive in desert regions due to their water storage capabilities, reduced surface area, CAM photosynthesis, root adaptations, tolerance to extreme temperatures, and protection from predators.