Flamingo - Chilka lake of Orissa

The correct match of an animal and its habitat in the given options is Flamingo - Chilka lake of Orissa. Flamingos are known for their vibrant pink feathers and long, slender legs. They are a species of wading birds and are famous for their unique feeding habits and habitat preferences.

Flamingos are commonly found in wetland habitats, including lagoons, estuaries, and shallow lakes. Chilka lake in Orissa, India, is one such habitat that provides an ideal environment for flamingos. Chilka lake is the largest brackish water lake in Asia and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Here is why the match of Flamingo and Chilka lake is correct:

Chilka lake - An ideal habitat for Flamingos:
- Chilka lake is a shallow, saline lake with rich biodiversity, including a variety of aquatic plants and animals. It is an important feeding and breeding ground for several bird species, including flamingos.
- The lake provides an abundant food supply for flamingos, as it is rich in algae, crustaceans, and small fish. These food sources attract flamingos to the lake, making it their preferred habitat.
- Flamingos are filter feeders, and Chilka lake's brackish water provides a suitable environment for them to feed on tiny organisms present in the water.
- The lake also offers protection from predators and provides suitable nesting sites for flamingos, as it has several islands and marshy areas where they can build their nests.

Flamingo behavior and adaptation to the habitat:
- Flamingos are social birds, often found in large flocks. They prefer habitats with shallow water, allowing them to wade and feed comfortably.
- Their unique beak structure enables them to filter out small organisms from the water while feeding. They use their specialized beak to scoop up water and then filter out food using comb-like structures on their beak.
- Flamingos have long, thin legs that help them wade through the shallow water and reach their food sources.
- Their pink coloration is a result of their diet, which primarily consists of organisms rich in pigments called carotenoids. These pigments are responsible for the vibrant pink color of their feathers.

In conclusion, the correct match of an animal and its habitat is Flamingo - Chilka lake of Orissa. Chilka lake provides an ideal environment for flamingos, offering abundant food sources, protection, and suitable nesting sites.