UPSC CSE Prelims 2019

Correct Option (D)

All four statements are factually correct.

1. Some species of turtle are herbivores: For instance, the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) is primarily herbivorous in its adult stage, consuming seagrass and algae.

2. Some species of fish are herbivores: Numerous fish species, such as parrotfish and surgeonfish, feed on plant matter like algae, classifying them as herbivores.

3. Some species of marine mammals are herbivores: Dugongs and manatees (sea cows) are well-known examples of herbivorous marine mammals, grazing on aquatic vegetation like seagrasses.

4. Some species of snakes are viviparous: While most snakes are oviparous (egg-laying), several species, including certain vipers and sea snakes, exhibit viviparity, giving birth to live young.

Incorrect Options

Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they exclude one or more statements that are factually accurate.

• Option A is incorrect as it excludes statement 2 (herbivorous fish) and statement 4 (viviparous snakes).
• Option B is incorrect as it excludes statement 1 (herbivorous turtles).
• Option C is incorrect as it excludes statement 1 (herbivorous turtles) and statement 3 (herbivorous marine mammals).