Which Biosphere Reserves of India term is correctly identified by “a marine biosphere reserve along the Tamil Nadu coast” and “it includes islands and shallow coastal waters”?

Correct Answer: Option A — Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is correct because it is a marine biosphere reserve along the Tamil Nadu coast. Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is also specifically associated with it includes islands and shallow coastal waters. Two additional identifying facts are that Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangroves are important ecosystems and Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is associated with the dugong is an important conservation association. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option B — Sundarban Biosphere Reserve: Sundarban Biosphere Reserve is a deltaic mangrove biosphere reserve in West Bengal. • Option C — Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve: Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve is a biosphere reserve in Madhya Pradesh. • Option D — Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve: Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is a biosphere reserve in the Western Ghats. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is it spans parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. Exam Takeaway: Connect Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve with “a marine biosphere reserve along the Tamil Nadu coast” and “it includes islands and shallow coastal waters”.