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UPSC Prelims 2025 GS Paper 1, question 37

Topic: Environment and ecology

Q37

Regarding Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements :

I. It is an omnivorous crustacean.

II. Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.

III. In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. (a) I only
  2. (b) I and III
  3. (c) II only
  4. (d) II and IIICorrect answer

Solution.

Answer: (d) II and III

  1. Statement I is incorrect: the Peacock tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica, or Gooty tarantula) is an insectivorous/carnivorous arachnid (spider), not an omnivorous crustacean.
  2. Statement II is correct: in the wild, it is Critically Endangered and endemic to a small reserve forest patch (< 100 sq km) between Nandyal and Giddalur in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh.
  3. Statement III is correct: Poecilotheria metallica is an arboreal (tree-dwelling) tarantula that nests in tree holes and bark crevices.