The question asks to identify the world's smallest wild pig. This requires knowledge of different pig species and their relative sizes, a common topic in biodiversity and wildlife conservation sections of competitive exams.
The Pygmy Hog (Porcula salvania) is widely recognized as the smallest wild pig species in the world. It is critically endangered and found only in Assam, India.
Correct Option: B) Pygmy Hog
The question asks to identify an Indian animal species whose natural habitat is a sandy and saline area, has no predators there, but is threatened by habitat destruction. This requires knowledge of the habitats and conservation status of the given Indian animal species.
B) Indian wild ass. The Indian wild ass (Equus hemionus khur) is endemic to the Little Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, India. This region is characterized by vast salt flats, sandy patches, and arid grasslands, making it a sandy and saline environment. The wild ass has few natural predators in this specific habitat, but its population is threatened by habitat loss and degradation due to human activities, including salt pan operations and agricultural expansion.
This question asks to identify which of the listed animals are naturally found in India. This requires knowledge of the native habitats of these species.
Based on this information, Star tortoise, Monitor lizard, and Pygmy hog are naturally found in India, while Spider monkey is not.
Correct Option: A) 1, 2 and 3 only
The question asks about the current habitat of the Pygmy Hog, a critically endangered species. To answer this, one needs to recall the specific protected areas where this species is known to exist.
Correct Option: C) Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
The question asks to identify which of the given animals are naturally found in India. This requires knowledge of the natural habitats and distribution of each species listed.
Based on the analysis:
Therefore, statements 1, 3, and 4 are correct.
B) 1, 3 and 4 only. This option correctly includes the Black-necked crane, Flying squirrel, and Snow leopard as naturally found in India.
The question asks to identify the correct difference between Oryx and Chiru antelopes. This requires knowledge of their habitats, characteristics, and conservation status. We will evaluate each option based on known facts about these animals.
A) Oryx is adapted to live in hot and arid areas whereas chiru is adapted to live in steppes and semi-desert areas of cold high mountains. This statement is correct. Oryx species are indeed found in hot deserts and arid regions (e.g., Arabian Oryx in the Arabian Peninsula, Scimitar Oryx in North Africa), showcasing adaptations to high temperatures and water scarcity. The Chiru (Tibetan Antelope) is native to the high-altitude cold steppes and semi-desert regions of the Tibetan Plateau, where it is adapted to extreme cold and thin air.