Question

Which is an indicator of industrial pollution ?
This question has multiple correct options.
A) Biston betularia
B) Chamaeleon
C) Lichen
D) Bengal tiger

Answer 1

An indicator species either shows sensitivity or sustenance in the pollution. The indicator species cannot survive in the air polluted released by industrial emissions with the oxides of sulphur.

Complete answer:
Let's discuss the above option and find out the correct answer.

A.Biston betularia :Biston betularia is a peppered moth. Before industrialization in England their population was dominated by white coloured varieties.The pollution through emission released soot that was deposited on the white bark of the trees due to the industrialization. For which the white population shifted to black population because the white moths were now eaten by the predators. Hence option A is correct.
B.Chamaeleon: it is a solitary animal. Hissing and biting are caused due to forced handling or unwanted handling. A chameleons bite is painful, but not toxic or harmful to humans. Handling can cause chameleons which leads to poor health. It is not an indicator of industrial pollution. Hence option B is incorrect.
C) Lichen :- lichens are a useful bioindicator for air pollution. With the oxides of sulphur, Released by industrial emissions the lichens are the indicator species of air pollution ,they cannot survive in the air polluted. This is because lichens absorb mineral nutrients from the moisture in the air . Any contaminant in the air makes it difficult for them to perform the vital activities of life.Hence option C is correct.
D) Bengal tiger: the bengal tiger is the national animal of india and bangladesh.The Bengal tiger ranks among the biggest wild cats . It is not an indicator. Hence option D is incorrect.

Hence both the options ‘A’ and ‘C’ are correct answers.

Note: Indicators are living organisms that respond as an especially clear way to change the environment. Lichen and Biston betularia are useful as a bioindicator for air pollution.