UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 60
Consider the following fauna :
- Lion-tailed Macaque
- Malabar Civet
- Sambar Deer
How many of the above are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Correct Option: A (Only one)
Explanation: The Malabar civet is mainly nocturnal. Lion-tailed macaques are primarily diurnal, while sambar’s activity varies and is not classed as generally nocturnal for this key.
Statement / Pair / Item-wise Analysis:
1. Incorrect/False - Lion-tailed macaques are active chiefly during daylight in forest canopies.
2. Correct/True - The elusive Malabar civet is considered predominantly nocturnal.
3. Incorrect/False - Sambar are often crepuscular and may become nocturnal under disturbance, but are not uniformly nocturnal.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Correct-exactly 1 of the 3 listed items satisfy the condition.
B. Incorrect-it counts 2, but only 1 qualify; item(s) 1, 3 do not.
C. Incorrect-it counts 3, but only 1 qualify; item(s) 1, 3 do not.
D. Incorrect-it counts 0, but items 2 qualify, giving 1.
Review note: Sambar activity is habitat- and disturbance-dependent; the supplied key counts only the Malabar civet as generally nocturnal.