Consider the following:
- Star tortoise
- Monitor lizard
- Pygmy hog
- Spider monkey
Which of the above are naturally found in India?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2013 Prelims]
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- Star Tortoise – The species is found in India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
- Monitor Lizard – The reptile is found in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burma, India, Iran, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
- Pygmy Hog – It is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List and is also listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Since it is the sole member of its genus, its conservation becomes even more important and is thus protected in the Manas National Park of Assam.
- Spider Monkey – The primate belongs to the genus Ateles and is found in the tropical forests of Central and South America.
