UPSC Prelims 2002 Q138: Environment & Ecology – Biodiversity
The sea coast
of which one of the following states has become famous as a nesting place for the giant Olive
Ridley turtles from South America?
- (a) Goa
- (b) Gujarat
- (c) Orissa
- (d) Tamil Nadu
Answer: (c) Orissa
Explanation
Nesting coast of the Olive Ridley turtles
| State | Turtle nesting |
|---|---|
| Orissa (Odisha) | Gahirmatha and Rushikulya beaches — the world's largest mass nesting (arribada) |
| Tamil Nadu | Small scattered nesting |
| Goa | Small nesting at Morjim and Galgibag |
| Gujarat | Not a major site |
The coast of Orissa, mainly Gahirmatha (Bhitarkanika) and Rushikulya, is famous for the mass nesting of Olive Ridley turtles every winter. Note: the question's phrase 'from South America' is inaccurate; the turtles migrate from the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal feeding grounds.
Answer: (c) Orissa.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Goa has only small nesting beaches.
- (b) Incorrect. Gujarat is not a major Olive Ridley site.
- (c) CORRECT. Orissa has the largest mass nesting beaches.
- (d) Incorrect. Tamil Nadu has only scattered nesting.
Key point
Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary (1997) protects the world's largest Olive Ridley rookery; the species is Vulnerable (IUCN).
Remember
Gahirmatha, Orissa: world's largest Olive Ridley nesting.
Common mistakes
- Choosing Tamil Nadu from its long coast.
- Believing the turtles come from South America.
- Mixing with leatherback nesting in the Andamans.
Exam tip
Turtle nesting plus India means Gahirmatha in Odisha.
Sources
- Ministry of Environment — Marine turtles of India
- Wildlife Institute of India