Which of the following have coral reefs? 1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands 2. Gulf of Kachchh 3. Gulf of Mannar 4. Sunderbans Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A
1, 2 and 3 only
Correct Answer
B
2 and 4 only
C
1 and 3 only
D
1, 2, 3 and 4
Explanation
The correct answer is (A) because the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Gulf of Kachchh, and Gulf of Mannar are the primary regions in India hosting fringing and barrier coral reefs. Sunderbans is the most tempting wrong option but is incorrect because its high turbidity and massive freshwater discharge from the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta create conditions unsuitable for coral survival, which requires clear, saline water. This question tests the core concept of the geographical distribution and specific ecological requirements of coral reef ecosystems in India.
Environment / Marine EcosystemsCoral Reef Distribution in IndiaCoral reefsAndaman and Nicobar IslandsGulf of KachchhGulf of MannarSunderbans