Q1. Which of the following big cats are covered under the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)?
Tiger and Lion
Leopard and Snow Leopard
Cheetah and Jaguar
Puma and Lynx
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Ans: (a)
The IBCA focuses on 7 big cats: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma. Lynx is not included in this specific alliance.
Q2. With reference to the 'Tokara Leaf Warbler' recently seen in the news, consider the following statements:
It is the first new bird species identified in Japan in over four decades.
It is classified as a "cryptic species" because it is physically indistinguishable from all other members of the Phylloscopus genus.
It is endemic to the Tokara Islands in southern Japan.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Ans: (c)
Statement 1 is correct: It is the first new bird species identified in Japan in 45 years.
Statement 2 is incorrect: A cryptic species is indistinguishable from its closest relatives (like Ijima’s Leaf Warbler) by sight, not from every member of a large genus.
Statement 3 is correct: It is endemic (found exclusively) to the Tokara Islands.
Q3.. The "Ryukyu Arc," associated with the habitat of the newly discovered bird, is geologically significant because:
Ans: (b)
Explanation: The Ryukyu Arc is an island arc formed by the subduction of the Philippine Sea Plate under the Eurasian Plate, making it a key area for subduction zone research.
Q4. The term "Sky Islands," recently discussed in the context of biodiversity, is best described as:
Ans: (b)
Explanation: Sky islands are isolated mountain ranges surrounded by different environments (like arid lowlands). This isolation mimics the conditions of an oceanic island, preventing species from moving between mountains and driving the evolution of unique, endemic species.
Q5.The location 'Umroi,' which frequently serves as a venue for international military exercises like Pragati and Harimau Shakti, is located in which Indian state?
Ans: (B)
Explanation: Umroi is a prominent military cantonment and exercise node located in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya. It is a preferred site for Joint Training Node (JTN) activities.
