Correct Answer: Option A — Sundarban Biosphere Reserve. Sundarban Biosphere Reserve is correct because it is a deltaic mangrove biosphere reserve in West Bengal. Sundarban Biosphere Reserve is also specifically associated with tidal creeks, mudflats and mangrove islands dominate the landscape. Two additional identifying facts are that Sundarban Biosphere Reserve is tidal creeks, mudflats and mangrove islands dominate the landscape and Sundarban Biosphere Reserve is associated with cyclones and salinity are major ecological pressures. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option B — Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve: Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve is a biosphere reserve in Madhya Pradesh. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is Satpura National Park, Bori Sanctuary and Pachmarhi Sanctuary are associated protected areas. • Option C — Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve: Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is a biosphere reserve in the Western Ghats. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is montane shola-grassland and tropical forest habitats occur within it. • Option D — Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve: Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is a high-Himalayan biosphere reserve in Uttarakhand. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is alpine meadows, glaciers and rugged mountain habitats are prominent. Exam Takeaway: Connect Sundarban Biosphere Reserve with “a deltaic mangrove biosphere reserve in West Bengal” and “tidal creeks, mudflats and mangrove islands dominate the landscape”.
