UPSC Prelims 2016·GS1·geography·indian geography

What is/are unique about 'Kharai camel', a breed found in India? 1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater. 2. It survives by grazing on mangroves. 3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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  1. A1 and 2 onlyCorrect
  2. B3 only
  3. C1 and 3 only
  4. D1, 2 and 3

Explanation

The 'Kharai camel' is a unique and rare breed of camel found in the salt marshes of the Kutch region of Gujarat, India. Let's analyze its unique features: 1. **It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.** This statement is correct. The Kharai camel is adapted to the harsh coastal ecosystem of Kutch, and is known for its ability to swim long distances in seawater to graze on mangroves on islands and coastal areas. 2. **It survives by grazing on mangroves.** This statement is correct. Mangrove leaves form a significant part of their diet, showcasing their unique adaptation to a saline environment. 3. **It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.** This statement is incorrect. Kharai camels are indeed domesticated by the local Maldhari community and are used for transport, milk, and breeding, despite their unique ability to swim and forage in the wild. They are a semi-wild breed, but they are managed by humans. Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are correct.
geography: What is/are unique about 'Kharai camel', a breed found in India? 1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in

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