Environment & Biodiversity MCQs

Notes:
The International Tsunami Information Centre also termed as ITIC was established in November 1965 by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It is located at Honolulu.

Notes:
The Screening Criteria under Environment Impact Assessment are based upon the following:
1. Scales of investment
2. Type of development
3. Location of development

Notes:
The lakes which have low primary productivity as a result of low nutrient content are known as Oligotrophic Lake. These lakes have very low algal production therefore they often have very clear waters, with high drinking-water quality.

Notes:
Nanotoxicology is defined as the study of the toxicity of nanomaterials. nanomaterials have unique properties as compared to their larger counterparts because of the large surface area to volume ratio of nanomaterials. Inhalation exposure is of most concern because of its quantum size.

Notes:
The species commonly found in Sub-alpine Forests are junipers, birch, rhododendrons,
berberis, maling bamboo, laurel, etc. Oak and magnolia occur around the region of
Kalimpong. In the upper Singalila range, dwarf rhododendrons, meadows and
small flowering bushes occur.

Notes:
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are nontoxic, non-flammable chemicals containing atoms of carbon, chlorine, and fluorine. They are used in the manufacture of aerosol sprays, blowing agents for foams and packing materials, as solvents, and as refrigerants. Because CFCs contribute to?ozone?depletion in the upper atmosphere, the manufacture of such compounds has been phased out under the Montreal Protocol.

Notes:
Acid rain is a rain or any other form of precipitation that is unusually acidic i.e. it possesses elevated levels of hydrogen ions (low pH). It is caused by emissions of oxides of sulphur (SO2 or SO3) and nitrogen oxide, which react with the water molecules in the atmosphere to produce acids.

Notes:
As non-biodegradable wastes like plastic bags, glass bottles, etc., cannot be broken down by decomposers, their disposal poses a big problem. Non-biodegradable wastes can be managed by practicing the concept of 3R— Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

Notes:
The Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world’s largest coral reef system, spanning 2,300 kilometers and covering 344,400 square kilometers. It is home to 10% of the world’s fish species, 400 types of coral, and six of the seven species of marine turtles. The reef is composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, with the widest sections reaching up to 65 kilometers. It is visible from space and supports a diverse array of marine life, including whales, dolphins, and sharks. The reef has been listed as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World since 1997. Despite its natural beauty, the reef faces threats from climate change, coral bleaching, and pollution, with UNESCO recommending it for the In Danger list due to these impacts.

Notes:
The Ningaloo Coast is a World Heritage Site located in Western Australia renowned for its diverse marine ecosystems and exceptional biodiversity. This 705,015 hectares site features Australia’s largest fringing coral reef, supporting over 500 fish, 250 coral, and 600 mollusc species. There have been some recent unusual sightings, including the reappearance of the short-nosed sea snake in 2015. The crystal-clear water, due to the area’s arid climate, is perfect for snorkelling and underwater diving. The coast also includes nesting sites for three species of sea turtles. This significant site has been managed through a marine park since 1987.