Q1. Which statement about estuaries is TRUE?
- They receive both fresh and saline water
- They exist only in tropical regions
- Estuaries are high wave action zones
- They have low productivity
Correct Option: 1. They receive both fresh and saline water
Explanation: Estuaries are regions where freshwater from rivers mixes with saltwater from the sea, forming brackish water. They are highly productive ecosystems.
Q2. The Amrit Dharohar scheme is primarily aimed at:
- Constructing dams for irrigation
- Urban lake beautification
- Empowering local communities in wetland conservation
- Exporting wetland products
Correct Option: 3. Empowering local communities in wetland conservation
Explanation: Introduced in the 2023–24 Union Budget, Amrit Dharohar focuses on enhancing biodiversity and eco-tourism through community-led wetland conservation.
Q3. Which of the following wetlands is NOT included in the Ramsar Sites of India?
- Chilika Lake
- Loktak Lake
- Sunderbans
- Bhakra Reservoir
Correct Option: 4. Bhakra Reservoir
Explanation: Bhakra Reservoir is a man-made structure primarily used for hydroelectricity and irrigation, and is not designated as a Ramsar Site.
Q4. Which factor contributes most to the eutrophication of wetlands?
- Overgrazing
- Discharge of untreated sewage and industrial waste
- Soil erosion
- Invasive birds
Correct Option: 2. Discharge of untreated sewage and industrial waste
Explanation: Eutrophication results from excessive nutrient inputs—particularly nitrogen and phosphorus—mainly due to untreated sewage and industrial discharge.
Q5. Why are estuaries considered among the most productive ecosystems on Earth?
- They are not affected by human activity
- They are protected by mountains on all sides
- They receive nutrient input from both rivers and seas
- Their salinity is always constant
Correct Option: 3. They receive nutrient input from both rivers and seas
Explanation: Estuaries receive nutrient-rich inputs from both freshwater (rivers) and saltwater (sea), making them fertile and highly productive habitats.