With reference to “dugong”, a mammal found in India, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. It is a herbivorous marine animal. 2. It is found along the entire coast of India. 3. It is given legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
- A. 1 and 2
- B. 2 only
- C. 1 and 3
- D. 3 only
Answer: C
Explanation
Feeding on sea grass, dugongs are found in sea grass beds, sheltered waters, lagoons and bays. Fourteen sea grass species are found in the marine waters in the country of which 13 are found in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay areas. Dugongs had been brought under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, the punishment for its poaching is imprisonment.