Question 1
What is a habitat?
a) A type of plant
b) A kind of animal
c) The natural environment where an organism lives
d) A part of the human body
Answer: c) The natural environment where an organism lives
Explanation: A habitat is the natural environment where an organism lives, which includes both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors.
Question 2
What is deforestation?
a) Planting more trees
b) Clearing of forests and using that land for other purposes
c) Study of forests
d) Increasing wildlife in forests
Answer: b) Clearing of forests and using that land for other purposes
Explanation: Deforestation refers to the clearing of forested areas for non-forest use, such as agriculture, urban development, or logging for timber.
Question 3
Which of these is a consequence of deforestation?
a) Decreased soil erosion
b) Increased rainfall
c) Increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
d) Lowering of pollution levels
Answer: c) Increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
Explanation: Deforestation leads to an increase in carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere as trees, which absorb carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, are removed.
Question 4
What is the main purpose of creating wildlife sanctuaries and national parks?
a) Entertainment and recreation
b) Urban development
c) Conservation of flora and fauna
d) Agricultural activities
Answer: c) Conservation of flora and fauna
Explanation: Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are established primarily for the conservation of wildlife and their natural habitats.
Question 5
What are endemic species?
a) Species that are found globally
b) Species found exclusively in a particular area
c) Species introduced from other areas
d) Domesticated species
Answer: b) Species found exclusively in a particular area
Explanation: Endemic species are those that are native to a specific geographical area and are not naturally found elsewhere.
Question 6
Why is biodiversity important?
a) It ensures uniformity of species
b) It is important only for aesthetic value
c) It provides ecological stability and sustains life
d) It is only necessary for the pharmaceutical industry
Answer: c) It provides ecological stability and sustains life
Explanation: Biodiversity is crucial for ecological stability, as it ensures the balance of different species and sustains life by supporting various ecological processes.
Question 7
What is a biosphere reserve?
a) An area used for urban development
b) A protected area for biodiversity conservation and research
c) A place for recreational activities
d) An area for agricultural experiments
Answer: b) A protected area for biodiversity conservation and research
Explanation: A biosphere reserve is an area designated for the conservation of biodiversity, where research and monitoring of ecosystems are conducted.
Question 8
Which of the following is a consequence of fewer trees due to deforestation?
a) Increased soil fertility
b) More soil erosion
c) Enhanced water retention in soil
d) Reduced air pollution
Answer: b) More soil erosion
Explanation: Fewer trees lead to more soil erosion as roots of trees play a vital role in holding the soil together, preventing erosion.
Question 9
What does the term ‘flora’ refer to in a particular area?
a) The animal life
b) The water bodies
c) The plant life
d) The microbial life
Answer: c) The plant life
Explanation: ‘Flora’ refers to all the plant life present in a specific area or region.
Question 10
Why are migratory birds known to travel long distances?
a) For better living conditions
b) For hibernation
c) For breeding purposes
d) Due to lack of food in their habitat
Answer: c) For breeding purposes
Explanation: Migratory birds travel long distances to regions with favorable conditions for breeding, often triggered by climatic changes.
Question 11
What is the main reason behind the establishment of biosphere reserves?
a) Commercial exploitation of natural resources
b) Conservation of biodiversity
c) Promotion of tourism
d) Scientific research only
Answer: b) Conservation of biodiversity
Explanation: Biosphere reserves are established primarily for the conservation of biodiversity, including the protection of both flora and fauna and their natural habitat.
Question 12
Which of the following best defines an endangered species?
a) Species that have already become extinct
b) Species with a large population
c) Species at risk of extinction
d) Species found in every continent
Answer: c) Species at risk of extinction
Explanation: Endangered species are those that are at a high risk of extinction in the near future due to factors like habitat loss, poaching, and environmental changes.
Question 13
What is the role of the Red Data Book?
a) To list all animal species
b) To record endangered plants and animals
c) To describe all known plants and animals
d) To list all national parks and sanctuaries
Answer: b) To record endangered plants and animals
Explanation: The Red Data Book is a comprehensive record of the endangered and threatened species of plants and animals.
Question 14
What does ‘re-forestation’ imply?
a) Clearing forests for agriculture
b) Planting trees in urban areas
c) Planting trees in deforested areas
d) Studying forest ecosystems
Answer: c) Planting trees in deforested areas
Explanation: Reforestation involves planting trees in areas where forests have been cut down or destroyed, essentially restoring the forest cover.
Question 15
Why is it important to conserve biodiversity?
a) To maintain ecological balance
b) To ensure uniformity of species
c) Only for aesthetic and recreational purposes
d) To increase agricultural land
Answer: a) To maintain ecological balance
Explanation: Conserving biodiversity is essential for maintaining ecological balance, ensuring the survival of various species and supporting vital ecological processes.
Question 16
What is the main difference between a wildlife sanctuary and a national park?
a) National parks allow human activities; sanctuaries do not.
b) Sanctuaries are larger than national parks.
c) National parks focus on conservation of landscapes and ecosystems; sanctuaries focus on specific species.
d) Sanctuaries allow limited human activities; national parks do not.
Answer: d) Sanctuaries allow limited human activities; national parks do not.
Explanation: National parks are more strictly regulated with regard to human activities compared to wildlife sanctuaries, which may allow some limited use of resources.
Question 17
What is the main cause of desertification?
a) Excessive rainfall
b) Deforestation
c) Overpopulation of animal species
d) Excessive mining
Answer: b) Deforestation
Explanation: Deforestation leads to desertification as the removal of trees causes soil erosion and loss of fertility, gradually turning fertile land into desert.
Question 18
Which of the following is an effect of deforestation on the environment?
a) Increased humidity
b) Improved soil quality
c) Lowered groundwater levels
d) Reduced air pollution
Answer: c) Lowered groundwater levels
Explanation: Deforestation results in lowered groundwater levels as trees play a crucial role in the water cycle, including the absorption and release of groundwater.
Question 19
What is the significance of endemic species in biodiversity?
a) They are common in all ecosystems.
b) They are found exclusively in a particular area, contributing to its uniqueness.
c) They can be easily relocated to any part of the world.
d) They are less important for the ecosystem.
Answer: b) They are found exclusively in a particular area, contributing to its uniqueness.
Explanation: Endemic species are unique to specific locations and contribute to the biodiversity and uniqueness of these ecosystems.
Question 20
What is the primary purpose of a wildlife sanctuary?
a) To serve as a tourist attraction
b) To protect and conserve wild animal species in their natural habitat
c) To breed endangered species in captivity
d) For the commercial exploitation of animals
Answer: b) To protect and conserve wild animal species in their natural habitat
Explanation: Wildlife sanctuaries are established to protect and conserve wild animals in their natural habitat, ensuring their survival and well-being.
Question 21
What is a biosphere reserve?
a) An area dedicated to agricultural research
b) A protected area for the conservation of wildlife, plants, and traditional life of the tribals
c) A region for setting up industries and urban development
d) A water conservation area
Answer: b) A protected area for the conservation of wildlife, plants, and traditional life of the tribals
Explanation: Biosphere reserves are areas designated to conserve biodiversity, including wildlife and plants, and also to protect the traditional life of the tribal people living in that area.
Question 22
Why is the Red Data Book important?
a) It lists all species found in a country.
b) It records endangered and threatened species of plants and animals.
c) It contains information about all national parks and sanctuaries.
d) It is a guidebook for tourists.
Answer: b) It records endangered and threatened species of plants and animals.
Explanation: The Red Data Book is important as it maintains records of all endangered and threatened species, helping in their conservation and management.
Question 23
What is the primary reason for the migration of birds?
a) Searching for food
b) Escaping from predators
c) Breeding in favorable conditions
d) Recreation
Answer: c) Breeding in favorable conditions
Explanation: Birds migrate to different areas primarily for breeding purposes, often triggered by changes in climate and to find favorable conditions.
Question 24
What does the term ‘fauna’ signify in a particular area?
a) The plant life
b) The animal life
c) The microbial life
d) The aquatic life
Answer: b) The animal life
Explanation: ‘Fauna’ refers to all the animal life present in a specific area or region.
Question 25
What is the main objective of Project Tiger?
a) To promote tourism
b) To protect and conserve the tiger population
c) To study the behavior of tigers
d) To relocate tigers to different habitats
Answer: b) To protect and conserve the tiger population
Explanation: Project Tiger was launched to protect and conserve the tiger population in India by ensuring their natural habitats remain intact and free from human-induced disturbances.
Question 26
Why are certain species referred to as ‘endangered’?
a) They are in abundant numbers.
b) They adapt easily to environmental changes.
c) They are at risk of extinction.
d) They are found in all continents.
Answer: c) They are at risk of extinction.
Explanation: Endangered species are those that are at significant risk of becoming extinct in the near future due to factors like habitat loss, poaching, or environmental changes.
Question 27
What role do national parks play in biodiversity conservation?
a) Providing recreational spaces for people
b) Protecting entire ecosystems and conserving flora and fauna
c) Facilitating urban development
d) Allowing hunting and poaching
Answer: b) Protecting entire ecosystems and conserving flora and fauna
Explanation: National parks are areas designated for the protection of natural environments, preserving entire ecosystems, and conserving the flora and fauna present in those areas.
Question 28
How does reforestation contribute to the environment?
a) By increasing the urban space
b) By reducing the number of trees in an area
c) By restoring forest cover and aiding in ecological balance
d) By promoting industrial development
Answer: c) By restoring forest cover and aiding in ecological balance
Explanation: Reforestation involves planting trees in deforested areas, which helps restore forest cover, maintain ecological balance, and reverse the effects of deforestation.
Question 29
What is the primary reason for establishing a biosphere reserve?
a) To create a space for agriculture
b) For commercial exploitation of natural resources
c) For conservation of biodiversity and cultural heritage
d) To build residential areas
Answer: c) For conservation of biodiversity and cultural heritage
Explanation: A biosphere reserve is established for the conservation of biodiversity, including the preservation of flora, fauna, and the cultural heritage of the area.
Question 30
What distinguishes a wildlife sanctuary from a national park?
a) The presence of wild animals
b) The allowance of certain human activities in sanctuaries
c) The absence of flora in sanctuaries
d) Only sanctuaries have endangered species
Answer: b) The allowance of certain human activities in sanctuaries
Explanation: In wildlife sanctuaries, certain human activities like grazing, collection of medicinal plants may be allowed under controlled conditions, whereas national parks usually have stricter restrictions on human activities.
Question 31
What does ‘migration’ refer to in the context of birds?
a) Daily movement of birds in search of food
b) Movement of birds from their habitat to zoos
c) Seasonal movement of birds from one region to another
d) Movement of birds within their habitat
Answer: c) Seasonal movement of birds from one region to another
Explanation: Migration in birds is a seasonal movement where birds travel from one region to another, often over long distances, for breeding, feeding, or due to climatic changes.
Question 32
Why is the Red Data Book significant in conservation efforts?
a) It lists all plant and animal species in the world.
b) It records endangered and rare species, aiding in their protection.
c) It is a guide for tourists visiting wildlife sanctuaries.
d) It provides information on the best places to observe wildlife.
Answer: b) It records endangered and rare species, aiding in their protection.
Explanation: The Red Data Book is significant as it documents endangered and rare species of plants and animals, helping in targeted conservation efforts and monitoring of these species.
Question 33
Which activity is prohibited in a national park?
a) Sightseeing
b) Scientific research with permission
c) Poaching
d) Photography
Answer: c) Poaching
Explanation: Poaching, or illegal hunting and capturing of wild animals, is strictly prohibited in national parks to protect and preserve wildlife.
Question 34
What is an ecosystem?
a) A community of living organisms interacting with each other
b) A system comprising only the animal life in a particular area
c) A closed system with no energy exchange
d) An area consisting only of water bodies
Answer: a) A community of living organisms interacting with each other
Explanation: An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microbes) in conjunction with the nonliving components of their environment (like air, water, and mineral soil), interacting as a system.
Question 35
Why are animals in a zoo not in their natural habitat?
a) They are easier to research in a zoo.
b) They are protected from predators in a zoo.
c) They can be trained for entertainment.
d) They are removed from their natural habitat for conservation purposes.
Answer: d) They are removed from their natural habitat for conservation purposes.
Explanation: Animals in zoos are often kept in conditions that simulate their natural habitats, but they are not in the wild. This is usually for reasons of conservation, protection from threats, or breeding programs.
Question 36
What is the primary purpose of the Red Data Book?
a) To record and list all animal and plant species on earth
b) To keep a record of all endangered plants and animals
c) To provide a complete description of national parks
d) To catalog all the medicinal plants and animals
Answer: b) To keep a record of all endangered plants and animals
Explanation: The Red Data Book is an important document that maintains a record of all endangered and threatened plant and animal species, aiding in their conservation.
Question 37
What does biodiversity refer to?
a) The diversity among human populations
b) The variety of living organisms in a particular area
c) The diversity of geographical landscapes
d) The variety of non-living elements in an ecosystem
Answer: b) The variety of living organisms in a particular area
Explanation: Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, in a particular area or ecosystem.
Question 38
What is the primary reason for the migration of certain species?
a) To find better living conditions
b) To escape from natural disasters
c) To reproduce under favorable conditions
d) To seek human protection
Answer: c) To reproduce under favorable conditions
Explanation: Many species migrate to different geographical locations to reproduce and raise their young in conditions that are more favorable and conducive to survival.
Question 39
Why is reforestation important?
a) It increases the land available for agriculture.
b) It decreases the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
c) It helps in urban development.
d) It leads to an increase in the recreational areas.
Answer: b) It decreases the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Explanation: Reforestation is important because it helps in restoring forest areas, which in turn aids in reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere through the process of photosynthesis.
Question 40
What is the main goal of creating biosphere reserves?
a) To conduct scientific research only
b) To promote tourism
c) To conserve biodiversity along with the traditional life of the tribals
d) For commercial exploitation of natural resources
Answer: c) To conserve biodiversity along with the traditional life of the tribals
Explanation: The primary goal of creating biosphere reserves is to conserve biodiversity, including the flora, fauna, and ecosystems, while also preserving the traditional life and culture of the tribal people residing in those areas.
Question 41
Why is deforestation a major concern for the environment?
a) It enhances soil fertility.
b) It increases biodiversity.
c) It leads to a loss of habitat for many species.
d) It improves the water cycle.
Answer: c) It leads to a loss of habitat for many species.
Explanation: Deforestation is a major concern because it leads to the loss of habitat for countless species, contributing to biodiversity loss and disrupting ecosystems.
Question 42
What is one of the main reasons for creating wildlife sanctuaries?
a) To use the land for agriculture.
b) To allow sustainable logging.
c) To protect animal species from human disturbances.
d) To facilitate industrial development.
Answer: c) To protect animal species from human disturbances.
Explanation: Wildlife sanctuaries are established mainly to protect animal species by providing them a safe haven from human disturbances and preserving their natural habitat.
Question 43
What is an endemic species?
a) A species introduced from another region.
b) A species found all over the world.
c) A species found exclusively in a particular area.
d) A species that has become extinct.
Answer: c) A species found exclusively in a particular area.
Explanation: An endemic species is one that is found only in a specific geographical area and nowhere else in the world.
Question 44
What are migratory birds known for?
a) Remaining in one habitat throughout their lives.
b) Traveling long distances annually for specific reasons like breeding.
c) Adapting quickly to any environment.
d) Living exclusively in water.
Answer: b) Traveling long distances annually for specific reasons like breeding.
Explanation: Migratory birds are known for their long-distance travels, often undertaken annually, for reasons such as breeding, feeding, or avoiding harsh climatic conditions.
Question 45
What does the term ‘flora’ refer to?
a) The bird species in a region.
b) The animal life in a region.
c) The plant life in a region.
d) The water bodies in a region.
Answer: c) The plant life in a region.
Explanation: Flora refers to all the plant life present in a particular geographic area or ecosystem.
Question 46
Which of the following best describes the Red Data Book?
a) A record of all flora and fauna in a region.
b) A directory of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
c) A list of endangered and threatened species.
d) A guidebook for ecotourism.
Answer: c) A list of endangered and threatened species.
Explanation: The Red Data Book is a comprehensive list that documents endangered and threatened species, aiding in their conservation and monitoring.
Question 47
Why are biosphere reserves important?
a) They are primarily used for agricultural research.
b) They are designated areas for military training.
c) They play a critical role in conserving biodiversity.
d) They are developed for urban expansion.
Answer: c) They play a critical role in conserving biodiversity.
Explanation: Biosphere reserves are important as they play a critical role in conserving biodiversity, including various species of plants, animals, and microorganisms, and maintaining ecological balance.
Question 48
What is the main aim of reforestation?
a) To increase urban green spaces.
b) To restore forest cover in deforested areas.
c) To create new agricultural lands.
d) For recreational purposes.
Answer: b) To restore forest cover in deforested areas.
Explanation: The main aim of reforestation is to restore the forest cover in areas that have been deforested, thereby helping to rejuvenate the ecosystem, conserve biodiversity, and balance the environment.