A
Artificial nurseries established in urban parks for mass timber plantation
B
Underground subterranean caves utilized exclusively for mineral storage and geological research
C
Man-made botanical gardens created for ex-situ conservation of invasive weed species
D
Small localized habitats that maintain favourable microclimates allowing species to survive regional degradation
Correct answer: (d) Small localized habitats that maintain favourable microclimates allowing species to survive regional degradation
Explanation
Option D is correct as micro-refugia are small-scale habitats that provide suitable local climatic conditions, enabling species to persist even when broader regional environments suffer degradation. The other options are incorrect descriptions involving botanical gardens, caves, or nurseries.
Same topic · past papers
UPSC has asked this before
These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.
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2023 · Q9 · General Studies · 2 marks
Consider the following statements: 1. Amarkantak Hills are at the confluence of Vindhya and Sahyadri Ranges. 2. Biligirirangan Hills constitute the easternmost part of Satpura Range. 3. Seshachalam Hills Constitute the southernmost part of Western Ghats. How many of the statements given above the correct? -
2021 · Q4 · GS I · 10 marks
Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and Western Ghats. -
2017 · Q4 · General Studies · 2 marks
From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats? -
2017 · Q58 · General Studies · 2 marks
Consider the following statements: 1. In India, the Himalayas are spread over five states only. 2. Western Ghats are spread over five states only. 3. Pulicat Lake is spread over two States only. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? -
2025 · Q6 · GS I · 10 marks
Explain briefly the ecological and economic benefits of solar energy generation in India with suitable examples.