Current Affairs Quiz Question And Answers #63

Note: Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and pristine natural landscapes. Spanning across lush forests, deep valleys, and majestic mountains, this sanctuary serves as a vital habitat for diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Mishmi takin and the red panda. As one of Arunachal Pradesh’s ecological treasures, Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary offers invaluable opportunities for wildlife conservation, research, and eco-tourism, contributing to the state’s environmental heritage and fostering sustainable development initiatives in the region.

Note: Ranthambore National Park, situated in the royal state of Rajasthan, is renowned for its majestic tigers, sprawling landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled amidst the Aravalli and Vindhya mountain ranges, this iconic national park provides a sanctuary for diverse wildlife species, including leopards, sloth bears, and a myriad of avian species. With its ancient ruins, picturesque lakes, and dense forests, Ranthambore offers visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical splendor, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and history aficionados alike.

Note: Melolontha arunachalensis, recently highlighted in the news, is a species of beetle. This particular beetle species was discovered in the biodiversity-rich region of Arunachal Pradesh, adding to the diverse array of flora and fauna found in the northeastern state of India. As biodiversity hotspots like Arunachal Pradesh continue to unveil new species, conservation efforts become increasingly vital to safeguard these unique ecosystems for future generations.

Note: Scientists at NASA have recently identified Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron (EMIC) waves. These waves play a significant role in the dynamics of Earth’s magnetosphere and its interaction with the solar wind. Understanding such phenomena is crucial for space weather forecasting and protecting satellites and astronauts in space. NASA’s ongoing research efforts contribute to our broader understanding of space physics and its implications for space exploration and satellite communications.

Note: ‘Tripedalia maipoensis’ is a species of jellyfish that was recently discovered. This unique jellyfish species adds to our understanding of marine biodiversity. Studying such discoveries helps scientists comprehend the intricate ecosystems of our oceans and underscores the importance of marine conservation efforts.

Note: ‘Magnaporthe oryzae’ is a fungal pathogen that affects rice plants, causing a disease known as blast. This pathogen poses a significant threat to rice production worldwide, as it can cause extensive damage to crops. Efforts to understand and mitigate the impact of ‘Magnaporthe oryzae’ are crucial for ensuring food security and sustaining agricultural livelihoods.

Note: ‘Piarosoma arunachalensis’ is a newly discovered species of freshwater fish. Its discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems in the region where it was found. Studying and conserving such species are essential for maintaining the ecological balance and preserving the natural heritage of our planet.

Note: The Pygmy Hog, scientifically known as ‘Porcula salvania’, is indeed the smallest species of pig globally and is endemic to India. Found primarily in the grasslands and wetlands of the northeastern region of India, particularly in Assam, this critically endangered species faces numerous threats to its survival, including habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts are crucial to safeguarding this unique and iconic species.

Note: ‘Saurona triangular’ and ‘Saurona aurigera’ are indeed recently discovered species of insects. These remarkable discoveries highlight the ongoing exploration and discovery of biodiversity around the world, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to protect newly discovered species and their habitats.

Note: The ‘Comb Jelly’, also known as ctenophores, is a fascinating marine invertebrate species. Unlike jellyfish, they possess eight rows of cilia, known as combs, which they use for locomotion through the water. These unique creatures play crucial roles in marine ecosystems and are of significant interest to scientists studying marine biology and biodiversity.

Note: Scientists have embarked on an important field trial to vaccinate rhinoceroses against ‘Chlamydia’ diseases. This effort is crucial for the conservation of these magnificent creatures, as ‘Chlamydia’ infections can pose significant health threats to rhino populations. Vaccination programs like these are instrumental in safeguarding endangered species and preserving biodiversity in their natural habitats.

Note: The Death cap mushroom, scientifically known as Amanita phalloides, is a highly poisonous fungus primarily found in Europe. Despite its innocuous appearance, this mushroom contains toxins that can cause severe illness and even death if ingested. It serves as a reminder of the importance of caution and awareness when foraging for wild mushrooms, especially for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of mushroom identification.

Note: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the state of Assam, is renowned for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses. Spread across the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, this sanctuary is not only a habitat for rhinoceroses but also supports a diverse array of flora and fauna. It plays a crucial role in conservation efforts aimed at protecting these majestic creatures and their natural habitat.

Note: South Africa, known for its rich biodiversity, has recently been in the spotlight for the discovery of 62 desiccation-tolerant vascular plant species. These remarkable findings underscore the importance of biodiversity conservation efforts in the region and highlight the need for further research to understand and protect these unique plant species and their habitats.

Note: The sighting of the black-veined white butterfly in Tokyo has sparked excitement among nature enthusiasts and researchers. This elegant butterfly, known for its distinctive black-veined wings, adds to the diverse fauna of Tokyo’s urban landscape. The discovery highlights the importance of preserving green spaces within cities to support biodiversity and provide habitats for various species.

Note: Recent research indicates that the Earth’s crustal movements, primarily driven by tectonic plate shifts, have caused the planet to tilt up to 80 centimeters in certain regions. These findings shed light on the dynamic nature of our planet’s geology and underscore the ongoing processes shaping its surface. Understanding these movements is crucial for predicting and mitigating geological hazards such as earthquakes and tsunamis.

Note: The bald eagle, known for its majestic appearance and significance in North American culture, is primarily endemic to North America. It is one of the continent’s most iconic birds, symbolizing strength, freedom, and resilience. With its distinctive white head and tail contrasting against a dark brown body, the bald eagle is a symbol of national pride and conservation efforts across the United States and Canada.

Note: The Santa Fe frog, recently highlighted in the news, is native to the South American region. Found primarily in the Santa Fe National Park in Argentina, these frogs are known for their unique characteristics and play a vital role in the local ecosystem. As amphibians, they inhabit various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, contributing to the biodiversity of the South American continent.

Note: Avian divorce is the term used to describe the phenomenon where certain bird species choose to separate from their current partners and seek new mates. This behavior is observed in various bird species for reasons such as genetic diversity, reproductive success, or conflicts within the pair. Understanding avian divorce provides insights into the complexities of bird behavior and their social dynamics in the wild.

Note: Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Spread over the districts of Mandsaur, Neemuch, and Nimach, this sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including species like the Indian gazelle, chital, sambar deer, and various migratory birds. It provides a vital habitat for wildlife and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

Note: Avian Divorce is the term used to describe the phenomenon when certain bird species choose to separate from their current partners and seek new mates. This behavior is observed in various bird species for reasons such as reproductive success, mate compatibility, or environmental changes. Understanding avian behavior, including mating strategies, is crucial for ornithologists and conservationists studying bird populations and their dynamics.

Note: June 2023 recorded the hottest week ever recorded on Earth, highlighting the ongoing impact of climate change and the urgent need for global efforts to mitigate its effects. Rising temperatures pose significant challenges to ecosystems, agriculture, and human health, emphasizing the importance of addressing climate change through international cooperation and sustainable practices.

Note: Recently, researchers identified 62 Desiccation-Tolerant (DT) vascular plant species in the Western Ghats. This discovery sheds light on the unique biodiversity of this region and highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect these plants and their habitats. Desiccation-tolerant plants possess remarkable adaptations to survive in arid and semi-arid conditions, making them vital components of ecosystems facing climate change and habitat degradation.

Note: The ‘Tiger Orchid’ species, scientifically known as Grammatophyllum speciosum, originates from the Southeast Asian rainforests. This impressive orchid species is renowned for its large size and striking appearance, often featuring vibrant yellow and maroon-colored flowers. Its natural habitat includes countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The discovery and preservation of such unique flora highlight the rich biodiversity of Southeast Asia and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these ecosystems.

Note: The short peptide named ‘Topoisomerases’ was created by researchers from Oxford University. This peptide holds significant promise in the field of molecular biology and pharmaceuticals due to its potential applications in targeting DNA topoisomerases, enzymes crucial for DNA replication and transcription processes. Oxford University’s groundbreaking research underscores its commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and developing innovative solutions to complex biological challenges.

Note: The weather event involving a rise in the sea surface temperature is known as the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). This phenomenon occurs due to the temperature difference between the eastern and western Indian Ocean. The IOD has significant impacts on weather patterns, particularly in the Indian Ocean region, influencing rainfall patterns, droughts, and agricultural productivity. Understanding and monitoring the Indian Ocean Dipole is essential for climate prediction and disaster management efforts in affected regions.

Note: ‘Lycaenidae’ is a family of butterflies commonly known as the blues, coppers, or hairstreaks. These butterflies belong to the insect order Lepidoptera. The Lycaenidae family is known for its diverse range of small to medium-sized butterflies, often exhibiting colorful patterns and intricate wing shapes. They play essential roles in pollination and are integral parts of many ecosystems worldwide, contributing to the biodiversity and beauty of natural environments.

Note: The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Indian state of Goa. Covering an area of approximately 208 square kilometers, this sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including various species of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to diverse ecosystems, including evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, and serves as an important habitat for several endangered species such as the black panther, Indian bison, and Malabar pied hornbill. It plays a crucial role in conserving the region’s natural heritage and promoting ecotourism.

Note: The first instance of captive breeding of the Himalayan vulture in India occurred in the state of Uttarakhand. This significant achievement marks a milestone in conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered vulture species. Uttarakhand, known for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, provides an ideal environment for such conservation initiatives. The successful captive breeding program underscores the importance of proactive measures in preserving threatened wildlife species and their habitats.

Note: According to a recent report, the coastal waters of Kerala are facing an ecological threat from the invasive Caribbean false mussel. This invasive species, originally from the Caribbean region, poses a significant risk to native marine ecosystems by outcompeting local species for resources and altering habitat structures. The presence of the Caribbean false mussel underscores the importance of monitoring and managing invasive species to protect the biodiversity and ecological balance of coastal regions. Efforts are underway to mitigate the spread of this invasive mussel and safeguard the marine environment in Kerala.