Question 1:

What is a protected area?

Explanation: The correct answer is B) An area established to conserve biodiversity and natural resources. A protected area is a clearly defined geographic space, whether terrestrial or marine, that is managed and regulated to achieve specific conservation objectives, such as preserving biodiversity, protecting endangered species, and conserving natural habitats and ecosystems.

Question 2:

What is the primary purpose of a wildlife sanctuary?

Explanation: The correct answer is B) Protecting and conserving wildlife species and their habitats. A wildlife sanctuary is a protected area specifically designated for the conservation and protection of wildlife species and their habitats. These areas provide safe havens for various animal species, allowing them to thrive without disturbance and ensuring the preservation of biodiversity.

Question 3:

What is the role of protected areas in biodiversity conservation?

Explanation: The correct answer is C) They safeguard habitats and biodiversity. Protected areas play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation by providing a safe and undisturbed environment for diverse species and their habitats. They help maintain ecological balance, preserve natural resources, and enable the sustainable functioning of ecosystems, thereby contributing to the long-term conservation of biodiversity.

Question 4:

What is the significance of buffer zones in protected areas?

Explanation: The correct answer is C) They minimize human impacts on the core protected areas. Buffer zones are areas surrounding the core protected areas that are managed with less strict regulations. These zones help minimize human disturbances, such as unsustainable resource extraction and habitat destruction, near the core areas. They act as a transitional area between human-dominated landscapes and the more sensitive habitats within the protected areas.

Question 5:

Which of the following statements about protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries is true?

Explanation: The correct answer is C) Protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries exist in various countries and serve conservation purposes. Protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries are found worldwide and are established with the aim of conserving biodiversity, protecting habitats, and preserving wildlife. They exist in both developed and developing countries, reflecting the global commitment to safeguarding natural ecosystems and their invaluable ecological and socio-economic benefits.