Q1. Which grassland type in India is most associated with shifting cultivation and sheep grazing?
- Steppe
- Humid Montane
- Semi-arid Zone
- Dry Sub-humid Zone
Correct Option: 2. Humid Montane
Explanation: Humid montane grasslands are derived from forests due to shifting cultivation and grazing. Found in Assam, Manipur, West Bengal, etc.
They were originally forests but got converted into grasslands due to anthropogenic activities.
Q2. The Great Indian Bustard is primarily found in which ecosystem?
- Alpine Tundra
- Tropical Rainforest
- Thar Desert Grasslands
- Cold Desert
Correct Option: 3. Thar Desert Grasslands
Explanation: The Great Indian Bustard, an endangered species, is found in open plains and grasslands of the Thar Desert, Rajasthan.
It is one of India’s heaviest flying birds and depends on this semi-arid ecosystem.
Q3. In which forest type is fog considered a major source of water, more than rainfall itself?
- Tropical Rainforest
- Temperate Rainforest
- Subtropical Rainforest
- Shola Forest
Correct Option: 2. Temperate Rainforest
Explanation: Temperate rainforests are located in coastal areas and are characterized by:
• High humidity
• Persistent fog, which is a key water source
Fog condensation supports the vegetation significantly here.
Q4. Which Indian institute is dedicated to grassland and fodder research?
- CAZRI, Jodhpur
- ICRISAT, Hyderabad
- IGFRI, Jhansi
- FRI, Dehradun
Correct Option: 3. IGFRI, Jhansi
Explanation: IGFRI (Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute) in Jhansi, UP, focuses on:
• Improvement of grasslands
• Fodder crop research
• Sustainable livestock feeding
CAZRI is for arid zones, FRI is for forestry.
Q5. Which of the following plant adaptations is not commonly found in desert plants?
- Succulent stems
- Broad leaves for photosynthesis
- Deep taproots
- Thick cuticle and reduced stomata
Correct Option: 2. Broad leaves for photosynthesis
Explanation: Desert plants avoid broad leaves because:
• Broad leaves lose water rapidly through transpiration
Instead, they:
• Have small or no leaves
• Use succulent stems for photosynthesis
Hence, broad leaves are not a desert adaptation.