INSIGHT UPSC QUIZ

Science & Technology General Science
Q.

Read the following statements carefully and select the correct answer from the code given below:

1. Dugong (Dugong dugon) is an herbivorous mammal.

2. Dugongs are listed as Critically endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

3. Recently, an announcement was made by Tamil Nadu State government for the set-up of Dugong conservation reserve. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Explanation:

ANSWER: (A)

  • Statement 1 is correct. 

The dugong (Dugong dugon), also called the sea cow, is an herbivorous mammal. It is the only herbivorous mammal that is strictly marine and is the only extant species in the family Dugongidae. They can grow up to three meters long, weigh about 300 kilograms, and live for about 65 to 70 years, grazing on seagrass and coming to the surface to breathe. They are found in over 30 countries and in India are seen in the Gulf of Mannar, Gulf of Kutch, Palk Bay, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

  • Statement 2 is not correct. 

Dugongs are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The loss of seagrass habitats, water pollution and degradation of the coastal ecosystem due to developmental activities have made life tough for these slow-moving animals. Dugongs are also victims of accidental entanglement in fishing nets and collision with boats, trawlers.

  • Statement 3 is correct. 

The Tamil Nadu State government announced recently that a 500-sqkm dugong conservation reserve will soon be set up in the Palk Bay.

More Questions Selected Just For You. Attempt Now!