Question

Similipal is
A. Sanctuary
B. Biosphere Reserve
C. National park only
D. Zoo

Answer 1

Hint: Similipal name is derived from simul trees. It is a national park for tiger reservation.

Complete Answer:
- Similipal is located in Orissa’s Mayurbhanj district. The reserve forest area is over 2750sq km and the wildlife sanctuary is one of the biggest in the country.
- The main area of the Similipal Tiger Reserve extends up to 1194 sq km and also has around 25 Royal Bengal Tigers 304 species of birds and plants, the sanctuary is extremely rich in biodiversity, and Similipal- Kuldiha-Hadgarh elephant reserve is also done in the biosphere.
- Wildlife sanctuaries are the natural habitats of animals where capturing them is prohibited while biosphere reserve is the conservation of biodiversity. Flora and fauna of the ecosystem are conserved.
- While zoos are created by man which serves as artificial habitats where people can see animals. A similipal is the biosphere reserve.

Therefore, the correct answer is option B. Biosphere reserve.

Additional information: The Similipal has 304 species of birds, 164 species of butterflies, have been recorded in the park, 55 species of mammals, 60 species of reptiles, 21 species of frogs, 38 species of fish.
- Many species of animals are on the verge of extinction, therefore reservation of such animals is important for maintaining the ecosystem.
- Such animals include tiger, wild buffaloes, etc. There are waterfalls in the area nearby. These waterfalls are Sitakund, Bhimkund, and Devkund waterfalls.

Note: The sanctuary remains closed during monsoon i.e. from June to November for maintenance.