Which biosphere reserve among the following has the largest area?
Gulf of Mannar
Comparing Areas of Indian Biosphere Reserves
The question asks us to identify the biosphere reserve among the given options that has the largest geographical area. To answer this, we need to compare the approximate areas of the Sunderban, Pachmarhi, Nilgiri, and Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserves.
Understanding Biosphere Reserves
A biosphere reserve is a special protected area designated by UNESCO under its Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. These areas are intended to promote conservation along with sustainable use. They are typically divided into three zones:
- Core Area: Strictly protected, undisturbed natural area.
- Buffer Zone: Area surrounding the core, used for research and education activities.
- Transition Area: Outermost area where sustainable development is promoted with local community involvement.
The total area of a biosphere reserve includes all these zones.
Area Comparison of Given Biosphere Reserves
Let's look at the approximate areas of the biosphere reserves listed in the options:
| Biosphere Reserve | Approximate Area ($km^2$) |
|---|---|
| Sunderban | ~9,630 (Indian part) |
| Pachmarhi | ~4,926 |
| Nilgiri | ~5,520 |
| Gulf of Mannar | ~10,500 |
Determining the Largest Biosphere Reserve
Based on the approximate areas, we can see the following:
- Sunderban Biosphere Reserve (Indian part) has an area of about $9,630\ km^2$.
- Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve has an area of about $4,926\ km^2$.
- Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve has an area of about $5,520\ km^2$.
- Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve has the largest area among the options, around $10,500\ km^2$. This vast area includes a significant marine ecosystem.
Therefore, the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is the largest in terms of area among the biosphere reserves listed.
Conclusion
Comparing the areas of the given biosphere reserves, the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve has the largest total area. This makes it the correct answer to the question.
Revision Table: Biosphere Reserve Areas
| Biosphere Reserve | Location (Primary) | Approximate Area ($km^2$) |
|---|---|---|
| Sunderban | West Bengal | ~9,630 (Indian part) |
| Pachmarhi | Madhya Pradesh | ~4,926 |
| Nilgiri | Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka | ~5,520 |
| Gulf of Mannar | Tamil Nadu | ~10,500 |
Additional Information on Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve
The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is located in the Indian Ocean, covering part of the coastal areas of Tamil Nadu and extending into the sea. It is one of the first biosphere reserves established in India (1989) and is globally recognized. Its large area is due to the inclusion of a significant marine component, which is rich in biodiversity, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and various marine species like dugongs and dolphins. It encompasses 21 islands along the coast.
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Out of the following, which is the smallest Wild Life Sanctuary?
Which set of the following biosphere reserves in India is included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves?
A good measure of biodiversity of an area is:
India initiated its Biosphere Reserve program to conserve unique ecosystems and their biodiversity. Which of the following reserves, established in $1986$ and encompassing parts of the Western Ghats across the tri-junction of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, was the first to be designated in the country?
Bhaisadarha Sanctuary is not related to
