Correct Answer: Option B — Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is correct because it is it spans parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is also specifically associated with montane shola-grassland and tropical forest habitats occur within it. Two additional identifying facts are that Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is montane shola-grassland and tropical forest habitats occur within it and Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is associated with it was India's first designated biosphere reserve. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option A — Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve: Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers landscapes are associated with it. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is alpine meadows, glaciers and rugged mountain habitats are prominent. • Option C — Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve: Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is it includes islands and shallow coastal waters. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangroves are important ecosystems. • Option D — Sundarban Biosphere Reserve: Sundarban Biosphere Reserve is it lies within the lower Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna delta. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is tidal creeks, mudflats and mangrove islands dominate the landscape. Exam Takeaway: Connect Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve with “it spans parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka” and “montane shola-grassland and tropical forest habitats occur within it”.
