Q. With reference to Wetlands, consider the following statements:
1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
2. They are covered with hydric soils.
3. Wetlands are often referred to as Kidneys of the Earth.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
- Statement 1 is incorrect: Ramsar Convention is not legally binding.
- Statement 2 is correct: Wetlands are covered with hydric soils. In such soils, the spaces between each grain of soil are filled with water. These soils are anaerobic- the soil lacks oxygen.
- Statement 3 is correct: Wetlands play an important role in maintaining the quality of water in deep-water ecosystems. Wetlands trap the sediments suspended in water- a process called sediment trapping. They also remove phosphorus and nitrogen and help prevent eutrophication of lakes and ponds. For this function, wetlands are often referred to as Kidneys of the Earth.
Source: Article

