gs1medium

With reference to 'dugong', a mammal found in India, which of the following statements is/are correct?

  1. 1.It is a herbivorous marine animal.
  2. 2.It is found along the entire coast of India.
  3. 3.It is given legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act,

1972.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  1. A.1 and 2 only
  2. B.2 only
  3. C.1 and 3 only
  4. D.3 only
▶ Answer & Explanation

Correct answer: C. 1 and 3 only

Dugongs are exclusively herbivorous, feeding on seagrasses and other marine vegetation, making them unique among large marine mammals. They are also highly protected under Indian law, specifically listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which offers the highest level of protection. While found in Indian waters, their distribution is primarily restricted to specific coastal areas like the Gulf of Mannar, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and the Gulf of Kutch, not along the entire coast.

Source: UPSC gs1 2015

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