UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 35
Consider the following statements :
- Biodiversity is normally greater in the lower latitudes as compared to the higher latitudes.
- Along the mountain gradients, biodiversity is normally greater in the lower altitudes as compared to the higher altitudes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: C
Correct Option: C
Explanation: Species richness is generally greater near the equator and at lower mountain elevations because warmth, moisture and productive habitats usually support more niches.
Statement / Item-wise Analysis:
1: Correct - Correct: tropical lower latitudes are normally more species-rich than polar regions.
2: Correct - Correct as a general trend: species richness often declines with increasing altitude, though some taxa peak at mid-elevations.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - omits supported item 2.
B: Incorrect - omits supported item 1.
C: Correct - includes the supported statements and excludes the unsupported ones.
D: Incorrect - omits supported items 1, 2.