Subject: Marine Ecosystem

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 code given below.

Consider the following kinds of organisms:
1. Copepods
2. Cyanobacteria
3. Diatoms
4. Foraminifera
Which of the above are primary producers in the food chains of oceans?

What is blue carbon?

Which one of the following is a filter feeder?

Which of the following best explain(s) the rationale for protecting mangrove ecosystems in the context of climate resilience?
1. Mangroves reduce tidal energy and store freshwater, making them ideal sites for paddy cultivation in saline estuarine belts.
2. Their salt-sensitive roots filter seawater, making mangroves key to converting coastal land into freshwater aquaculture zones.
3. By withstanding tidal surges and offering biomass resources, mangroves function both as natural bio-shields and livelihood bases for rural communities.