Consider the following statements about Ramsar Wetland sites in India :
- 1. Gahirmatha is the habitat of Olive Ridley Turtles.
- 2. Chilka lake is the habitat of Irrawaddy Dolphin as its flagship species.
- 3. Nalsarovar Wetland is also the habitat of Indian Wild Ass (Khuri).
- 4. Tso Moriri Wetland is the habitat and breeding ground of Black-necked Crane.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?
[amp_mcq option1=”1 and 3 only” option2=”1, 3 and 4 only” option3=”2 and 4 only” option4=”1, 2, 3 and 4″ correct=”option3″]
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2023
Statement 2 is correct: Chilika Lake in Odisha is a significant habitat for Irrawaddy dolphins, and they are considered a flagship species there. Statement 4 is correct: Tso Moriri Wetland in Ladakh is a known habitat and breeding ground for the endangered Black-necked Crane. Statement 1 is likely considered incorrect by the question setter, possibly because Gahirmatha is primarily a nesting beach for Olive Ridley turtles, part of the broader Bhitarkanika Ramsar site. While critical for their lifecycle, it might not be considered their ‘habitat’ in the sense of continuous residence, as they spend much of their lives in the ocean. However, it is a crucial habitat during nesting season. Given the options, and assuming 1 is considered incorrect, 2 and 4 must be correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary in Gujarat is primarily known for migratory birds. The Indian Wild Ass (Khuri) is mainly found in the Little Rann of Kutch, which is a separate area from Nalsarovar.
Ramsar sites in India are important wetlands providing habitat for various species. Gahirmatha (part of Bhitarkanika) is famous for Olive Ridley nesting, Chilika hosts Irrawaddy dolphins, Nalsarovar is a bird sanctuary, and Tso Moriri is a breeding site for Black-necked Cranes.