💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (June Batch) + Access XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF

Which of the following have coral reefs

Which of the following have coral reefs?
1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
2. Gulf of Kachchh
3. Gulf of Mannar
4. Sunderbans
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a)

1, 2 and 3 only

(b)

2 and 4 only

(c)

1 and 3 only

(d)

1, 2, 3 and 4 only

Answer:

(a)

Core Books/NCERT

Explanation

Statement 1 (Andaman & Nicobar Islands) is Correct: Rich fringing and barrier reefs; some of the most biodiverse reefs in India. Statement 2 (Gulf of Kachchh) is Correct: It contains fringing reefs, especially around islands like Pirotan (Marine National Park, Gujarat). Statement 3 (Gulf of Mannar) is Correct: Known for fringing reefs and rich marine biodiversity (near Tamil Nadu coast). Statement 4 (Sunderbans) is Incorrect: Sunderbans is a mangrove ecosystem, not suitable for coral reef growth (muddy waters, high sedimentation, freshwater inflow).