UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 8
Biodiversity forms the basis for human existence in the following ways :
- Soil formation
- Prevention of soil erosion
- Recycling of waste
- Pollination of crops
Select the correct answer using the codes given below :
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D
Explanation: Biodiversity supports the ecological processes that maintain productive soils, stabilise land, recycle wastes and enable crop reproduction.
Statement / Item-wise Analysis:
1: Correct - Correct: decomposers and soil organisms build and maintain fertile soil.
2: Correct - Correct: root systems and vegetation cover protect soil against erosion.
3: Correct - Correct: microbes and detritivores break down and recycle organic wastes.
4: Correct - Correct: insects, birds and other animals pollinate numerous crops.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - omits supported item 4.
B: Incorrect - omits supported item 1.
C: Incorrect - omits supported items 2, 3.
D: Correct - includes the supported statements and excludes the unsupported ones.