Due to some reasons, if there is a huge fall in the population of species of butterflies, what could be its likely consequence/consequences?
- Pollination of some plants could be adversely affected.
- There could be a drastic increase in the fungal infections of some cultivated plants.
- It could lead to a fall in the population of some species of wasps, spiders and birds.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2017 Prelims]
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
- Butterflies, as well as bees, have a crucial role in pollinating plants and aiding crop production. By transferring pollen grains, butterflies facilitate plant reproduction.
- If butterfly populations decline significantly, pollination of certain plants could suffer negative effects. Therefore, Statement 1 is correct.
- Currently, there is no scientific evidence to support the notion that a dramatic increase in fungal infections among cultivated plants has occurred. Therefore, Statement 2 is incorrect.
- A decline in butterfly populations could have an impact on the populations of other species, such as wasps, spiders, and birds, as these creatures rely on butterflies as a primary food source. Therefore, Statement 3 is correct.