How many statements about the Asian needle ant are correct?

Two statements are correct. The Asian needle ant does not build visible anthills and is known for its venomous sting. However, it includes both worker ants and queens, so the statement claiming it includes only workers is incorrect. The species nests in concealed spaces such as leaf litter, rotting wood, mulch, and under stones, and has also adapted to human-made environments. Its sting can cause intense pain and may trigger severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

What is Anaphylaxis and how is it related to the Asian needle ant?

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to an allergen such as peanuts, bee stings, or insect venom. The venomous sting of the Asian needle ant can trigger anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. Symptoms include sudden drop in blood pressure, narrowing of airways, difficulty breathing, rapid weak pulse, skin rash, nausea, and vomiting.

Which rare mammal was recently spotted in the Western Ghats?

The Nilgiri Marten was recently spotted in the Western Ghats. It is one of India’s rarest mammals and the only species of marten found in South India. Endemic to the Western Ghats, it is known for its elusive nature and energetic movements in dense forests. Due to habitat fragmentation and naturally low population numbers, its survival remains challenging.

Which beaches in India have received Blue Flag certification?

Golden Beach (Odisha), Rushikonda Beach (Andhra Pradesh), and Radhanagar Beach (Andaman & Nicobar Islands) have received Blue Flag certification. Other certified beaches include Shivrajpur Beach (Gujarat), Kappad Beach (Kerala), Padubidri Beach (Karnataka), and Kasarkod Beach. Blue Flag certification is an internationally recognized eco-label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education for high standards in cleanliness, safety, environmental management, and sustainable tourism.

What percentage of India’s rainfall comes from the southwest monsoon?

Approximately 75% of India’s total annual rainfall occurs during the southwest monsoon. This season is critical for agriculture, drinking water supply, hydropower generation, and overall economic stability. It begins in early June when monsoon winds reach Kerala and spreads across most of India by mid-July.

Why is the southwest monsoon important for India?

The southwest monsoon is India’s primary rainy season and supports agriculture, replenishes groundwater, fills rivers and reservoirs, and sustains hydropower production. It is driven by low-pressure conditions over northern and central India caused by rapid land heating during summer, drawing moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean.

What are the Haldhibari and Panbari wildlife corridors part of?

The Haldhibari and Panbari wildlife corridors are part of the Kaziranga National Park landscape in Assam. These corridors allow wildlife such as elephants, rhinos, tigers, wild buffalo, and swamp deer to migrate to the Karbi Anglong Hills during floods. The Supreme Court has ordered protection of these corridors due to their ecological importance.

Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - Environment & Geography - 21st May 2026

Devesh
May 21
1 min read

Test your UPSC CSE 2026 preparation with today’s Environment & Geography (Every Thursday) Quiz — covering the Asian needle ant, Blue Flag certification, southwest monsoon, Haldhibari and Panbari wildlife corridors and more.

Science, Technology & Environment MCQs Part - II Jan - April 2026

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