2008 General Studies, all questions

UPSC Prelims 2008 · General Studies

Question 137: Science and Technology

The release of which one of the following into ponds and wells helps in controlling the mosquitoes?

aCrab
bDogfish
cGambusia fish
dSnail

AnswerThe answer is (c).

Gambusia, a small fish, is released into ponds, wells and other still water because it feeds on mosquito larvae, so it is used in the biological control of malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases. Crabs, dogfish and snails do not control mosquito larvae in the same way.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) Crabs do not control mosquito larvae.
  • (b) Dogfish are sharks of the sea, not used for this.
  • (c) Gambusia fish eat mosquito larvae.
  • (d) Snails do not control mosquito larvae.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2008, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.