Olympiad Test: Conservation Of Plants And Animals - UPSC MCQ

The place of living of an organism in the environment is called habitat.
- A habitat refers to the specific area or environment where an organism lives and carries out its daily activities.
- It provides the necessary resources, such as food, water, shelter, and suitable conditions for survival and reproduction.
- Habitats can range from terrestrial (land-based) to aquatic (water-based) and can vary greatly in terms of temperature, humidity, vegetation, and other factors.
- Organisms have adapted to different types of habitats based on their specific needs and requirements.
- Examples of habitats include forests, deserts, oceans, rivers, mountains, and even human-made environments like cities and farms.
- The characteristics of a habitat directly impact the types of organisms that can thrive there.
- Changes or disturbances in a habitat, such as deforestation or pollution, can have significant effects on the resident organisms and may lead to disruptions in the balance of the ecosystem.
- Understanding habitats and their importance is crucial for conservation efforts and preserving biodiversity.
In this question, the correct answer is C: Habitat.

The correct answer is A: Deforestation.
Deforestation refers to the large-scale cutting down, removal, or clearing of forests or trees. It is a process that involves the permanent destruction of forests for various purposes, such as agriculture, logging, urbanization, or creating space for infrastructure development. Here is a detailed explanation of deforestation:
Causes of Deforestation:
- Agricultural Expansion: Forests are cleared to make way for large-scale farming or to create space for livestock.
- Logging: Trees are cut down for timber and other wood products.
- Urbanization: Forests are cleared to make space for expanding cities or to build infrastructure like roads and buildings.
- Mining: Forests are cleared to extract minerals and resources from beneath the ground.
- Infrastructure Development: Forests are cleared for the construction of dams, power plants, highways, and other development projects.
Impacts of Deforestation:
- Loss of Biodiversity: Deforestation leads to the loss of habitats for numerous plant and animal species, causing a decline in biodiversity.
- Climate Change: Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Deforestation results in the release of stored carbon, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.
- Soil Erosion: Tree roots help hold the soil together, preventing erosion. Deforestation increases the risk of soil erosion, leading to the loss of fertile land and nutrient depletion.
- Disruption of Water Cycles: Trees play a crucial role in regulating water cycles. Deforestation can disrupt rainfall patterns, leading to droughts, floods, and reduced water availability.
- Socio-economic Impacts: Deforestation can negatively impact local communities who rely on forests for their livelihoods, including indigenous peoples and forest-dependent populations.
Efforts to Address Deforestation:
- Reforestation: Planting trees in areas that have been deforested to restore forest cover and biodiversity.
- Sustainable Forest Management: Promoting responsible logging practices and ensuring the regeneration of forests.
- Conservation: Establishing protected areas and national parks to preserve valuable ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Government Policies and Regulations: Implementing laws and regulations to control deforestation and promote sustainable land use practices.
- Awareness and Education: Educating communities and raising awareness about the importance of forests and the negative impacts of deforestation.
In conclusion, deforestation is the process of large-scale forest clearance, resulting in numerous environmental and social impacts. It is essential to address deforestation through sustainable practices and conservation efforts to mitigate its adverse effects on ecosystems and the planet.

Deforestation causes can either be direct or indirect. Among direct causes :- natural causes as fires, floods.
Human activities as agricultural expansion, cattle breeding, mining , dam construction and infrastructure development.

Endangered Species

Endangered species are those that are at the verge of extinction. They are considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild. Here are some key points about endangered species:

Definition:
- Endangered species are plant or animal species that are in danger of becoming extinct.
- They have a small population size and are vulnerable to various threats.
- The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies species into different categories based on their conservation status, with "Endangered" being one of them.
Characteristics:
- Endangered species typically have a declining population trend.
- They may have a limited geographic range and are often found in specific habitats.
- These species face threats such as habitat loss, climate change, pollution, hunting, and poaching.
Conservation Efforts:
- Governments, organizations, and individuals work together to protect endangered species.
- Conservation efforts include habitat preservation, captive breeding programs, reintroduction into the wild, and implementing laws and regulations to prevent harm to these species.
- Public awareness campaigns and education programs also play a crucial role in the conservation of endangered species.
Examples of Endangered Species:
- Some examples of endangered species include the Sumatran tiger, black rhinoceros, African elephant, giant panda, and leatherback turtle.
In conclusion, endangered species are those that are at the verge of extinction and face various threats to their survival. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect and preserve these species for future generations.

Explanation: Reforestation is the process of planting new trees or seeds in order to increase the number of trees in a forest. Deforestation, on the other hand, refers to the removal or clearing of trees from a forest. Therefore, the correct answer is Reforestation.

Fauna is all of the animal life present in a particular region or  time. Fauna refers to a typical collection of animals found in a specific time or place.

The places where animals receive protection are called animal sanctuaries.
Animal sanctuaries are specific areas designated for the protection and welfare of animals. These sanctuaries serve as safe havens for various species, allowing them to live in a natural and protected environment. Here are some key details about animal sanctuaries:
1. Definition: Animal sanctuaries are places where animals, especially those rescued from cruelty, exploitation, or abandonment, are provided with care, shelter, and protection. These sanctuaries aim to promote their well-being and ensure they live a life free from harm.
2. Purpose: Animal sanctuaries serve several purposes, including:
- Providing a safe and secure habitat for animals to live freely without fear of hunting, poaching, or other human-induced threats.
- Rehabilitating and providing medical attention to injured or abused animals.
- Educating the public about the importance of animal protection and conservation.
- Conducting research and conservation programs to preserve endangered species.
3. Types of Sanctuaries: Animal sanctuaries can be categorized based on the types of animals they house:
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: These sanctuaries focus on protecting and conserving wild animals, including endangered species. They aim to restore natural habitats and prevent human interference.
- Farm Animal Sanctuaries: These sanctuaries provide refuge to farm animals rescued from slaughterhouses, factory farms, or abusive conditions. They offer a peaceful environment for these animals to live out their lives.
- Exotic Animal Sanctuaries: These sanctuaries house exotic animals, such as big cats, primates, or reptiles, that have been rescued from illegal pet trade, circuses, or private ownership.
- Marine Sanctuaries: These sanctuaries focus on protecting marine life, including coral reefs, marine mammals, and fish species. They aim to conserve underwater ecosystems and prevent habitat destruction.
4. Examples of Animal Sanctuaries: There are numerous animal sanctuaries around the world. Some well-known ones include:
- The Elephant Nature Park in Thailand: Provides a safe haven for rescued elephants and raises awareness about their conservation.
- The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya: Protects and rehabilitates orphaned elephants and rhinos.
- The Center for Great Apes in the United States: Provides lifelong care for orangutans and chimpanzees rescued from the entertainment industry and private ownership.
In conclusion, animal sanctuaries are essential establishments that provide protection, care, and rehabilitation for animals in need. They play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity, raising awareness about animal welfare, and promoting a compassionate society.

Project Tiger was launched on 1st April 1973.
Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Introduction:
Project Tiger was launched in India with the aim of conserving the dwindling population of tigers and protecting their natural habitats. It was one of the most successful wildlife conservation initiatives in the country.
2. Launch Date:
Project Tiger was officially launched on 1st April 1973.
3. Significance of the Date:
The launch date of 1st April holds significance as it marks the beginning of a new era in tiger conservation in India. It symbolizes the commitment of the government towards protecting and preserving the majestic tiger species.
4. Objectives of Project Tiger:
The primary objectives of Project Tiger were:
- To conserve the tiger population and ensure their long-term survival.
- To protect the natural habitats of tigers and their prey species.
- To mitigate the factors leading to the decline of tiger populations, such as poaching, habitat destruction, and human-animal conflicts.
- To promote community participation and awareness in tiger conservation efforts.
5. Implementation:
Project Tiger was implemented in various tiger reserves across India. Initially, 9 tiger reserves were established, covering a total area of 16,339 square kilometers. These reserves were carefully chosen to represent different ecological regions and ensure the conservation of the diverse tiger populations in the country.
6. Success of Project Tiger:
Project Tiger has been highly successful in achieving its objectives. The tiger populations in the designated reserves have shown a significant increase since the initiation of the project. It has also helped in preserving the biodiversity of the regions and providing livelihood opportunities to local communities through eco-tourism.
In conclusion, Project Tiger was launched on 1st April 1973, with the aim of conserving the tiger population and their habitats in India. It has been instrumental in the successful conservation of tigers and stands as a testament to the importance of wildlife conservation initiatives.

Explanation:
A sanctuary is a place where animals are protected. It is a designated area where wildlife can live and thrive without human interference or exploitation. Here is a detailed explanation of why option A is the correct answer:
Animals are protected:
- Sanctuaries are specifically created to provide a safe and natural habitat for various species of animals.
- The main objective of a sanctuary is to protect animals from hunting, poaching, habitat destruction, and other human activities that can harm them.
- Sanctuaries aim to preserve biodiversity by ensuring the survival of different animal species and maintaining a balanced ecosystem.
Plants are protected:
- While plants may also benefit indirectly from the protection of animal habitats, the primary focus of sanctuaries is to safeguard animal species.
- However, the presence of animals in sanctuaries contributes to the preservation of plant life by aiding in pollination, seed dispersal, and maintaining ecological balance.
Office of forest department:
- Sanctuaries are managed and regulated by the forest department or relevant authorities.
- The office of the forest department may be located near a sanctuary, but it is not the purpose or definition of a sanctuary itself.
None of these:
- This option is incorrect because sanctuaries do protect animals and often indirectly benefit plant life as well.
In conclusion, a sanctuary is primarily a place where animals are protected, making option A the correct answer.

Answer:
The part of the earth that supports biodiversity is called the Biosphere Reserve. Here is a detailed explanation:
Biosphere Reserve:
- A biosphere reserve is a unique and designated area that encompasses terrestrial, coastal, and marine ecosystems.
- It is a protected area that aims to conserve the biodiversity and promote sustainable development.
- Biosphere reserves serve as living laboratories for research and monitoring, education and awareness programs, and sustainable development practices.
Key Features of Biosphere Reserves:
1. Biodiversity Conservation: Biosphere reserves are established to protect and conserve the biodiversity present in the area.
2. Core Areas: They have core areas where strict protection measures are in place to preserve the natural habitats and species.
3. Buffer Zones: Surrounding the core areas are buffer zones that allow for sustainable human activities compatible with conservation objectives.
4. Transition Zones: Transition zones are areas where sustainable resource use and development are promoted, balancing the needs of local communities and conservation.
5. Research and Monitoring: Biosphere reserves serve as research and monitoring sites for scientists to study ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable development practices.
6. Education and Awareness: They play a crucial role in raising awareness about biodiversity and promoting environmental education among local communities and visitors.
Examples of Biosphere Reserves:
- The Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve in India and Bangladesh, known for its mangrove forests and Royal Bengal tigers.
- The Galapagos Islands Biosphere Reserve in Ecuador, famous for its unique wildlife and Charles Darwin's research.
- The Great Barrier Reef Biosphere Reserve in Australia, the world's largest coral reef system.
In conclusion, the biosphere reserve is the part of the earth that supports biodiversity and plays a significant role in conserving natural resources, promoting sustainable development, and raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity.

It is false because flora means plants and whereas Fauna means animals so the option which is selected is correct.

Deforestation as a Major Threat to Survival of Organisms
Deforestation refers to the clearing or removal of forests or trees from a specific area. It has become a significant environmental concern due to its negative impact on various organisms and the overall ecosystem. Here, we will discuss why deforestation is considered a major threat to the survival of organisms.
1. Loss of Habitat:
- Deforestation leads to the destruction of natural habitats for many organisms, including plants, animals, and insects.
- The removal of trees eliminates nesting sites, food sources, and shelter for a wide range of species.
- This loss of habitat disrupts the delicate balance of ecosystems and threatens the survival of various organisms.
2. Disruption of Food Chains:
- Forests are complex ecosystems with intricate food chains and interdependencies among organisms.
- Deforestation disrupts these food chains and can lead to the extinction or decline in populations of certain species.
- For example, when trees are cut down, it can directly impact herbivores that rely on leaves or fruits as their primary food source.
3. Climate Change:
- Forests play a crucial role in regulating climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis.
- Deforestation results in the release of stored carbon, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
- The alteration in climate patterns can have adverse effects on the survival and distribution of organisms adapted to specific temperature and precipitation conditions.
4. Soil Erosion and Water Cycle:
- Trees and vegetation act as natural barriers against soil erosion, preventing the loss of fertile topsoil.
- Deforestation removes this protective cover, leading to soil erosion, which affects nutrient availability and agricultural productivity.
- Additionally, forests play a crucial role in the water cycle by regulating rainfall patterns and maintaining water quality. Deforestation can disrupt this cycle, impacting aquatic ecosystems and the organisms dependent on them.
5. Biodiversity Loss:
- Forests are home to a vast array of species, many of which are still undiscovered.
- Deforestation results in the loss of biodiversity, as many species cannot survive outside their natural habitats.
- The loss of biodiversity reduces the resilience of ecosystems and can have cascading effects on the overall health and functioning of the environment.
In conclusion, deforestation poses a significant threat to the survival of organisms due to the loss of habitat, disruption of food chains, climate change, soil erosion, water cycle disruption, and biodiversity loss. Efforts to mitigate deforestation and promote sustainable land use practices are crucial for the long-term survival of organisms and the preservation of our planet's biodiversity.

Conversion of fertile soil into desert is called desertification.
Explanation:
Desertification refers to the process of fertile soil becoming desert-like due to various factors such as climate change, deforestation, overgrazing, and improper agricultural practices. Here is a detailed explanation of the concept:
1. Definition of desertification:
- Desertification is the degradation of land in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas, resulting in the transformation of fertile land into barren desert-like conditions.
- It is a complex process influenced by both natural and human factors.
2. Causes of desertification:
- Climate change: Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns can lead to prolonged droughts and reduced water availability, contributing to the spread of deserts.
- Deforestation: Clearing forests for agriculture, timber, or fuelwood disrupts the ecosystem and reduces the stability of the soil, making it more susceptible to erosion and desertification.
- Overgrazing: Excessive grazing by livestock can damage vegetation, leading to soil erosion and loss of fertility.
- Improper agricultural practices: Unsustainable farming techniques, such as overuse of chemical fertilizers, improper irrigation, and monoculture, can deplete the soil of nutrients and make it more vulnerable to erosion.
3. Consequences of desertification:
- Loss of fertile land: Desertification reduces the productivity of land, making it difficult to sustain agriculture and support local communities.
- Biodiversity loss: Desertification destroys habitats, leading to the loss of plant and animal species that are adapted to these ecosystems.
- Increased poverty and migration: Desertification often leads to poverty, as communities lose their means of livelihood. This can result in forced migration and social unrest.
4. Prevention and mitigation:
- Sustainable land management: Implementing practices like terracing, agroforestry, and contour plowing can help prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility.
- Reforestation: Planting trees can stabilize the soil, enhance water retention, and provide shade, reducing the risk of desertification.
- Water conservation: Efficient water management techniques, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, can help conserve water resources in arid regions.
- Policy interventions: Governments and international organizations need to implement policies that promote sustainable land use, protect ecosystems, and support affected communities.
In conclusion, desertification is the process of turning fertile soil into desert-like conditions due to various factors. It is a serious environmental issue that requires global attention and concerted efforts to prevent and mitigate its impacts.

Explanation:
The statement "Increase in rainfall causes droughts in that area." is False. Here's why:
Reasoning:
- Droughts are characterized by an extended period of below-average precipitation in a specific area.
- While it may seem counterintuitive, an increase in rainfall does not directly lead to droughts.
- Droughts occur due to various factors such as prolonged lack of rain, inadequate water supply, excessive evaporation, and high temperatures.
- In fact, an increase in rainfall is usually associated with a decrease in the likelihood of droughts, as it helps replenish water sources and restore moisture in the soil.
- However, it is important to note that excessive rainfall can also lead to flooding, which can have negative impacts on agriculture and water management.
Conclusion:
- The statement that an increase in rainfall causes droughts is false.
- Droughts are caused by a lack of rainfall over an extended period, not by an increase in rainfall.

Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve
The statement given is: Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve consists of one national park and two wildlife sanctuaries.
Evidence to support the answer:
- Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India.
- It is one of the 18 biosphere reserves in the country.
- The reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems.
- It is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- The Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve includes Satpura National Park, Bori Wildlife Sanctuary, and Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Explanation:
- Satpura National Park: It is the core area of the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve and covers an area of 524 square kilometers. It is home to various species of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, bears, and different species of birds.
- Bori Wildlife Sanctuary: It is located adjacent to Satpura National Park and covers an area of 518 square kilometers. It is known for its diverse wildlife, including Indian giant squirrel, Indian wolf, and Indian leopard.
- Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary: It is the smallest sanctuary in the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, covering an area of 390 square kilometers. It is known for its scenic beauty and is home to various species of animals and birds.
Conclusion:
Based on the evidence provided, it can be concluded that the statement is true. The Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve consists of one national park (Satpura National Park) and two wildlife sanctuaries (Bori Wildlife Sanctuary and Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary).

Answer:
The given statement is true. A source book that keeps a record of all the endangered animals and plants is indeed called a Red Data Book. Here are some key points to support this answer:
- Red Data Book: The Red Data Book is a comprehensive record or catalog of all the endangered and threatened species of animals, plants, and fungi. It provides detailed information on the status, distribution, habitat, and conservation measures of these species.
- Purpose: The main purpose of the Red Data Book is to raise awareness about the vulnerable and endangered species and to promote their conservation and protection.
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN): The IUCN is responsible for maintaining and updating the Red Data Book. It is a global organization that assesses the conservation status of species and publishes the Red List, which categorizes species into various threat levels.
- Categories: The Red Data Book categorizes species into different threat levels such as critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, and near threatened.
- Historical Significance: The concept of the Red Data Book was first introduced in the Soviet Union in the 1960s and later adopted by several other countries and organizations worldwide.
In summary, a Red Data Book serves as a valuable resource for tracking and documenting endangered animals and plants, and it plays a crucial role in conservation efforts.

Dinosaurs are the extinct animals.
- True: Dinosaurs are indeed extinct animals that lived millions of years ago.
- False: Dinosaurs are not currently living on Earth.
Dinosaurs are a group of reptiles that existed during the Mesozoic Era, which spanned from approximately 252 to 66 million years ago. They were incredibly diverse in size, shape, and behavior, ranging from small bird-like dinosaurs to gigantic herbivores and ferocious carnivores. However, today, no living dinosaurs exist.
Here are some key points to support the statement that dinosaurs are extinct animals:
1. Fossil Evidence: The primary evidence for the existence of dinosaurs comes from the study of fossils. Paleontologists have discovered and studied numerous dinosaur fossils from different parts of the world. These fossils provide insights into their anatomy, behavior, and evolutionary history.
2. Extinction Event: The extinction of dinosaurs is widely believed to be a result of a catastrophic event that occurred approximately 66 million years ago. This event, known as the Cretaceous-Paleogene (K-Pg) extinction event, is thought to have been caused by a combination of factors, including a large asteroid impact, volcanic eruptions, and climate change.
3. No Living Descendants: While some dinosaur lineages evolved into modern-day birds, these birds are not considered dinosaurs but rather their descendants. The dinosaurs that once roamed the Earth are distinct from any living animals today.
4. Fossil Record Gap: There is a significant gap in the fossil record between the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs and the appearance of their avian descendants. This further supports the idea that dinosaurs are indeed extinct.
In conclusion, it is true that dinosaurs are extinct animals. Through the study of fossils and scientific evidence, we have gained a better understanding of these remarkable creatures that once dominated the Earth.

False
- Endangered animals are those whose numbers are very small, not large.
- These animals are at risk of becoming extinct in the near future.
- The main reasons for their decline in numbers are habitat loss, pollution, climate change, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade.
- Endangered animals play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems and their loss can have cascading effects throughout the food chain.
- Conservation efforts are being made to protect and restore the populations of endangered animals.
- These efforts include establishing protected areas, implementing laws and regulations to prevent illegal hunting and trade, and raising public awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation.
- Some well-known examples of endangered animals include the giant panda, African elephant, Siberian tiger, and black rhinoceros.
- It is important for humans to take responsibility for protecting endangered animals and their habitats to ensure their survival for future generations.

False
Deforestation refers to the process of clearing, cutting down, or removing trees or forests. It is the opposite of tree growth and involves the permanent destruction of forests. The statement in the question is incorrect because deforestation does not refer to the growing of trees.
Here is a detailed explanation:
Deforestation:
- Deforestation is the permanent removal of trees and destruction of forests.
- It involves the conversion of forested areas into non-forest land for various purposes such as agriculture, urbanization, logging, or mining.
- Deforestation has negative impacts on the environment, including habitat loss, soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and contribution to climate change.
Tree growth and growing of trees:
- The process of trees increasing in size, height, and girth is called tree growth.
- Growing of trees refers to the act of planting and cultivating new trees.
Difference between deforestation and tree growth:
- Deforestation involves the removal and destruction of trees, resulting in the loss of forested areas.
- Tree growth, on the other hand, refers to the natural or human-assisted increase in the size and number of trees in a particular area.
In conclusion, deforestation is not the same as the growing of trees. Deforestation refers to the removal and destruction of trees, while tree growth involves the natural or human-assisted increase in the size and number of trees.