What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’ a breed found in India?
- It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.
- It survives by grazing on mangroves.
- It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2016 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- The Kharai camels are a distinct breed of camels that can only be found in Kutch, Gujarat, and have a diet primarily composed of mangroves from the offshore islands. Therefore, statement 2 is correct.
- These camels can swim up to three kilometers into the sea in search of mangroves, which are their primary source of food. As such, statement 1 is correct.
- Additionally, people commonly consume the milk of these camels, and male calves are sold for economic purposes, indicating that they can be domesticated. Thus, statement 3 is not correct.