Question

Which is the national aquatic animal of India?
A) Sea horse
B) Gangetic Shark
C) River Dolphin
D) Blue Whale

Answer 1

Hint: Aquatic species are found underwater. They exist either in freshwater, such as streams, rivers, wetlands or in saltwater, such as the ocean.

Complete Answer:
- In India, we have designated a few specified animals and birds as National animals and birds. Similarly, India has named the Ganga Dolphin as India's National Aquatic Animal.
- The Ganga River Dolphin is a rare dolphin species found only in Indian countries and neighbouring countries. The Ganges River Dolphin is also called as ‘Susu,’ It is considered to be the official animal of Assam's capital Guwahati.
- As the name goes, the Ganges Dolphin are endemic to the river Ganga. The only protected area that is currently available for endangered Gangetic dolphins in Asia is Vikramshila Gangetic dolphin sanctuary. It is located in Bhagalpur district of Bihar, India.
- Along with several species of reptiles, crocodiles and sharks, dolphins are among the oldest animals in the world. In order to prevent the Dolphins from its extinction, India declared it to be the National Aquatic animal.
- Dolphin being a mammal, it cannot breathe in water. Rather, for every 30-40 seconds, it surfaces above the water to breathe. They have less space for living due to construction of dams, fishing, pesticides, polluted rivers and poaching. This has led to the endangerment of the species. Also, Dolphins are killed for meat and oil.

The correct option is C, the river dolphin.

Note: The Ganges River Dolphins was found in the year 1801. The Dolphin River lives only in the freshwater. In India's mythology, Dolphin is known as Goddess Ganga's vehicle.