Problem 100 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Single-horned Rhinoes are found in (a) Ghana (b) Bastar of Madhya Pradesh (c) Kaziranga National Park (d) Khasi in Meghalaya

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Single-horned rhinoceros are found in Kaziranga National Park.

Step 1: Analyze the Options

The options given are Ghana, Bastar of Madhya Pradesh, Kaziranga National Park, and Khasi in Meghalaya. Identify which of these regions is known for the presence of single-horned rhinoceros.

Step 2: Identify the Correct Response

Based on known biological and geographical data about the distribution of single-horned rhinoceros, the correct answer is Kaziranga National Park, in Assam, India, which is home to two-thirds of the world's population of these rhinoceros.

Step 3: Confirm the Response

Confirm that the response is correct. Single-horned rhinos are indeed found at Kaziranga National Park, therefore this option is the correct response.

Key Concepts

Kaziranga National Park

Nestled in the fertile plains of the Brahmaputra River, in the northeastern state of Assam in India, lies the conserved haven known as Kaziranga National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park hosts a vast diversity of ecosystems ranging from grasslands, wetlands, to dense tropical forests.

Known globally for its significant population of the single-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga is often considered the last stronghold for these armored giants. The park shelters more than two-thirds of the world's population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis), which is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

In addition to the rhinoceros, Kaziranga supports other wildlife species such as elephants, wild water buffalos, and tigers, making it one of the richest biodiversity zones in the world. Conservation efforts such as poaching control and habitat management have played a critical role in the rehabilitation of these species.

Wildlife Biology

Wildlife biology is a branch of biology that focuses on the study of animals and their interactions with their natural habitats. It encompasses various disciplines, including zoology, ecology, and conservation science. A fundamental part of wildlife biology is understanding species distribution, population dynamics, behavior, and ecology.

When studying species like the single-horned rhinoceros, wildlife biologists might monitor their habitat use patterns, breeding behaviors, and dietary preferences. These aspects are crucial for developing effective conservation strategies.

Wildlife biologists also analyze the impact of human activities, such as habitat destruction and fragmentation, on wildlife populations. By doing so, they can propose and implement measures to mitigate these impacts and help manage wildlife reserves like the Kaziranga National Park for the conservation of endangered species.

Geographical Distribution of Species

The geographical distribution of species refers to where particular species are found across the world. Factors such as climate, topography, the availability of food and water, and human-related activities significantly influence the distribution of species.

Species like the single-horned rhinoceros have a limited distribution because they are specialized animals with unique needs, including certain types of vegetation and a warm, humid climate to thrive.

Knowledge about species distribution is critical in conservation biology. It helps in identifying biodiversity hotspots, areas that require protection, and the establishment of nature preserves. Mapping the distribution of a species is also key to understanding its evolutionary history, adaptations, and the possible threats it faces. Preserving the natural habitats where these species are endemic, like the Kaziranga National Park for the single-horned rhinoceros, is essential for their survival.