- It is a herbivorous marine animal.
- It is found along the entire coast of India.
- It is given legal protection under Schedule I of the
Explanation
The correct statements regarding the dugong are:
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It is a herbivorous marine animal: Dugongs primarily feed on seagrasses, which classifies them as herbivores, forming a crucial part of the marine ecosystem.
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It is given legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: This classification indicates that dugongs are recognized as endangered species in India, receiving stringent protections from hunting and habitat destruction.
Statement 2 is incorrect because dugongs are not found along the entire coast of India; they are primarily restricted to specific coastal regions, particularly in the waters of Gujarat, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and the Lakshadweep Islands, indicating their limited distribution. This nuanced understanding of species habitat and legal status is important for UPSC Prelims, reflecting the intersection of wildlife conservation and biodiversity awareness.