UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 95
Regarding Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements :
- It is an omnivorous crustacean.
- Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.
- In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D (II and III)
Explanation: The Gooty/peacock tarantula is a rare arboreal spider endemic to restricted forest habitat in Andhra Pradesh. It is an arachnid, not a crustacean, and hunts small animals rather than being omnivorous.
Statement / Pair / Item-wise Analysis:
I: False-a tarantula is a carnivorous arachnid, not an omnivorous crustacean.
II: True-its native Indian range is highly localised.
III: True-it lives on trees (arboreal).
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Incorrect-includes I despite the item-wise findings; omits II, III which the answer requires.
B. Incorrect-includes I despite the item-wise findings; omits II which the answer requires.
C. Incorrect-omits III which the answer requires.
D. Correct-this matches the facts and the item-wise assessment above.