Biology MCQs
Topic Notes: Biology
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
1
What is the primary purpose of implementing quarantine regulations in agriculture?
Answer:
prevention of entry of diseased organism
Quarantine regulations are legal measures designed to prevent the introduction and spread of pests and pathogens into new geographic areas. By restricting the movement of plants, seeds, and soil, authorities can protect local ecosystems and agricultural productivity from invasive species or foreign diseases. This is a critical component of biosecurity and integrated pest management strategies globally.
2
Which large wild cat species was declared extinct in India in the 20th century?
Answer:
Cheetah
The Asiatic Cheetah was officially declared extinct in India in 1952 due to hunting and habitat loss. While reintroduction programs have recently begun, it remains the only large cat species to have faced extinction in the country in modern times.
3
Which bird species, whose extinction led to the reproductive failure of a tree species in Mauritius, is famously cited in ecology?
Answer:
Dodo
The Dodo bird was endemic to Mauritius. It is hypothesized that the Calvaria tree relied on the Dodo to ingest its seeds, which would then be scarified in the bird's gizzard, allowing them to germinate. Following the Dodo's extinction, the tree population declined, illustrating the importance of mutualistic ecological relationships.
4
What are the primary objectives of the Plant Field Gene Bank located at Banthara?
Answer:
Look after all the above
Plant Field Gene Banks are established to conserve plant genetic resources. Their functions include the preservation of endangered species, the documentation and protection of biodiversity against biopiracy, and the identification and characterization of wild plants that possess potential economic or medicinal value. These facilities play a crucial role in maintaining genetic diversity for future agricultural and scientific research.
5
What is the scientific term for the branch of forestry that deals with the establishment, development, care, and reproduction of forest trees?
Answer:
Silviculture
Silviculture is the practice of controlling the establishment, growth, composition, health, and quality of forests to meet diverse needs and values. It involves various techniques such as thinning, harvesting, and reforestation to ensure the sustainable management of forest ecosystems and the production of timber and other forest resources.
6
Which of the following metrics is widely considered the most sensitive indicator of the overall health status of a community?
Answer:
Infant mortality rate
The infant mortality rate is a critical indicator because it reflects the socio-economic conditions, quality of healthcare, nutrition, and sanitation of a community. Because infants are the most vulnerable population, their survival rate is highly sensitive to changes in environmental and medical support systems.
7
Which tree species is widely referred to as 'Green Gold' but is often considered an ecological disaster due to its high water consumption?
Answer:
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus trees are fast-growing and economically valuable, earning them the nickname 'Green Gold'. However, they are frequently criticized as ecological disasters in non-native environments because they possess deep root systems that extract vast amounts of groundwater, leading to the depletion of local water tables and the suppression of native vegetation through allelopathic effects.
8
Which author defined conservation as the process concerning the use, preservation, and management of natural resources to protect them from misuse and waste?
Answer:
O. P. Odum (1971)
Eugene P. Odum, a pioneer in the field of ecology, provided this comprehensive definition of conservation in his foundational textbook 'Fundamentals of Ecology'. His work emphasized the importance of managing natural resources sustainably to prevent degradation and ensure their availability for future generations, reflecting the core principles of modern environmental science.
9
In which coastal region of Karnataka and Kerala are the mangrove species Ceriops candolleana and Bruguiera eriopetala typically found?
Answer:
West coasts
The west coast of India, including the states of Karnataka and Kerala, provides the specific estuarine and brackish water conditions required for the growth of mangrove species like Ceriops and Bruguiera, which are adapted to tidal environments.
10
In which Indian state is the rare and endangered pitcher plant, Nepenthes khasiana, naturally found?
Answer:
Meghalaya
Nepenthes khasiana is the only species of pitcher plant native to India. It is endemic to the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. This carnivorous plant is highly specialized, growing in nutrient-poor soils where it supplements its nitrogen intake by trapping and digesting insects within its modified, pitcher-shaped leaves. Due to habitat loss and over-collection, it is listed as an endangered species.