Target Exam

CUET

Subject

English

Chapter

Comprehension - (Narrative / Factual)

Question:

Read the given passage and answer the six questions that follow.

The Human Genome Project

Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, birds and bats, are essential for the ecosystem, health and human food security. They facilitate plant reproduction by transferring pollen between flowers, enabling the production of seeds and fruits crucial for plant biodiversity and ecosystem stability.

This mutualistic relationship supports global food production, with approximately 75% of leading food crops relying on animal pollination. Pollinators contribute to the diversity and abundance of flowering plants in natural ecosystems, providing habitat and food resources for various organisms.

Despite their importance, pollinators face significant threats. Habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture and deforestation reduces nesting sites and floral resources. Pesticide exposure, especially insecticides and climate change further endanger pollinator populations by poisoning them and disrupting their behaviour and reproductive patterns.

To safeguard pollinators and ecosystems, concerted action is necessary. This includes protecting and restoring pollinator habitats, adopting pollinator-friendly agricultural practices, reducing pesticide use and raising public awareness about the crucial role of pollinators.

By addressing these challenges, we can ensure the sustainability of ecosystems, biodiversity and food production systems, securing a healthier future for both nature and humanity.

Choose the most appropriate option.

Which of the following is not a reason for habitat loss faced by pollinators?

Options:

Urbanization

Climate change

Pollination

Pesticide exposure

Correct Answer:

Pollination

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (3) → Pollination

The passage highlights various threats to pollinators, including habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture, and deforestation. It also mentions pesticide exposure and climate change as factors that endanger pollinator populations. However, pollination itself is not a threat or cause of habitat loss.

In fact, pollination is a beneficial process carried out by pollinators, essential for plant reproduction and biodiversity. The act of pollination helps ecosystems thrive by enabling plants to produce seeds and fruits, supporting food production and maintaining biodiversity. Therefore, pollination is not a reason for habitat loss but rather an outcome of the work pollinators do, making it the correct answer for what is not a reason for habitat loss faced by pollinators.