UPSC Prelims 2003 Q67: Environment & Ecology – Biodiversity & Conservation
Consider the following animals of India:
1. Crocodile
2. Elephant
Which of these is/are endangered species?
- (a) Only 1
- (b) Only 2
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation
Endangered species of India
| Animal | Status |
|---|---|
| Crocodile | Endangered (the gharial and mugger are threatened) |
| Elephant | Endangered (Asian elephant) |
Both the crocodile (the gharial, and the mugger in places) and the Asian elephant are listed as endangered species of India, so both statements are correct.
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The elephant is also endangered.
- (b) Incorrect. The crocodile is also endangered.
- (c) CORRECT. Both are endangered species.
- (d) Incorrect. Both are endangered.
Key point
Project Elephant 1992, Crocodile Project 1975, Project Tiger 1973.
Remember
The Asian elephant and the gharial are endangered.
Common mistakes
- Thinking the elephant is only vulnerable.
- Forgetting that crocodile projects exist.
- Mixing up endangered with extinct species.
Exam tip
IUCN Red List: Asian elephant is endangered.
Sources
- International Union for Conservation of Nature — IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (Asian elephant; crocodilians)
- Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, Schedule I