Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Marsupials are not naturally found in India. Statement-II: Marsupials can thrive only in montane grasslands with no predators. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

1. A. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement- II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
2. B. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement- II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
3. C. Statement-I is correct but Statement- II is incorrect
4. D. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Answer: C

Explanation

Statement I is correct: Marsupials, characterized by giving birth to underdeveloped young that complete development in a pouch, are primarily native to Australia, New Guinea, and parts of the Americas. They are not naturally found in India. Any marsupials found in India would be due to human introduction or smuggling. Statement II is incorrect: Marsupials exhibit a wide range of habitats, including forests, deserts, and grasslands, and are not restricted to montane grasslands. Furthermore, they have evolved various defense mechanisms and coexist with predators in their natural environments. The idea that they can thrive ‘only’ in montane grasslands with ‘no predators’ is factually incorrect. Therefore, Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect.