Other than poaching, what are the possible reasons for the decline in the population of Ganga River Dolphins?
- 1.Construction of dams and barrages on rivers.
- 2.Increase in the population of crocodiles in rivers.
- 3.Getting trapped in fishing nets accidentally.
- 4.Use of synthetic fertilisers and other agricultural chemicals in crop fields in the vicinity of rivers.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 and 4 only
- D.1, 2, 3 and 4
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: C. 1 and 3 and 4 only
Dams and barrages obstruct the migratory routes and fragment the habitat of river dolphins, impacting their food sources and breeding grounds. Accidental entanglement in fishing nets is a major cause of injury and mortality for dolphins and other aquatic life. Agricultural runoff carrying pesticides and fertilizers pollutes the water, affecting the dolphin's prey base and potentially causing direct harm. While crocodiles are predators, their population increase is not considered a primary driver for the decline of river dolphins compared to habitat alteration and pollution.
Source: UPSC gs1 2014