NEET 2025 MCQ with Answer Explanation : “Biodiversity and conservation”.

31. The primary objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is to:
    a) Conserve biodiversity, ensure its sustainable use, and share benefits equitably
    b) Protect forests only
    c) Prevent desertification
    d) Promote the breeding of endangered species

Answer: a) Conserve biodiversity, ensure its sustainable use, and share benefits equitably

Explanation: The CBD, adopted in 1992 at the Earth Summit, focuses on conserving biodiversity, promoting its sustainable use, and ensuring that the benefits from genetic resources are shared equitably.

32. Which of the following is an example of on-farm conservation?
    a) National parks
    b) Gene banks
    c) Traditional farming of indigenous crops
    d) Zoos

Answer: c) Traditional farming of indigenous crops

Explanation: On-farm conservation involves preserving genetic diversity by allowing farmers to cultivate traditional crop varieties and indigenous species in their native habitat.

33. Which of the following countries has the greatest biodiversity?
    a) Russia
    b) Australia
    c) Brazil
    d) Canada

Answer: c) Brazil

Explanation: Brazil has the greatest biodiversity on the planet, with vast tropical rainforests such as the Amazon, which are home to numerous species of plants, animals, and insects.

34. The concept of biosphere reserves was introduced by:
    a) IUCN
    b) WWF
    c) UNESCO
    d) UNEP

Answer: c) UNESCO

Explanation: The concept of biosphere reserves was introduced by UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme to conserve biodiversity while promoting sustainable development.

35. Which Indian National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity?
    a) Sundarbans National Park
    b) Kaziranga National Park
    c) Jim Corbett National Park
    d) Gir National Park

Answer: b) Kaziranga National Park

Explanation: Kaziranga National Park in Assam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its significant population of Indian rhinoceroses, rich biodiversity, and conservation efforts.

36. An example of an alien invasive species that has caused biodiversity loss in India is:
    a) African elephants
    b) Nile crocodile
    c) Lantana camara
    d) Indian rhino

Answer: c) Lantana camara

Explanation: Lantana camara is an invasive plant species introduced to India that has spread rapidly, displacing native flora and reducing biodiversity in many ecosystems.

37. The term “flagship species” refers to:
    a) Species that are indicators of ecosystem health
    b) Species chosen to represent an environmental cause or ecosystem
    c) Species that play a crucial role in nutrient cycling
    d) Endangered species with a small population

Answer: b) Species chosen to represent an environmental cause or ecosystem

Explanation: Flagship species are iconic species used to raise public awareness and support for biodiversity conservation efforts, like tigers or pandas.

38. Which of the following is NOT an ex situ conservation strategy?
    a) Zoological parks
    b) Seed banks
    c) Gene banks
    d) Biosphere reserves

Answer: d) Biosphere reserves

Explanation: Biosphere reserves are part of in situ conservation strategies where ecosystems and their species are protected in their natural habitats.

39. Which of the following is a direct benefit of biodiversity to humans?
    a) Ecotourism
    b) Carbon sequestration
    c) Nutrient cycling
    d) Climate regulation

Answer: a) Ecotourism

Explanation: Ecotourism is a direct economic benefit derived from biodiversity, where tourists visit natural areas to experience wildlife and ecosystems.

40. Which of the following ecosystems has the highest primary productivity?
    a) Desert
    b) Grassland
    c) Coral reef
    d) Tropical rainforest

Answer: d) Tropical rainforest

Explanation: Tropical rainforests have the highest primary productivity due to their warm climate and high levels of precipitation, supporting diverse and abundant plant life.