BOTANY

For UPSC Examinations (CSE and IFoS)

Strategy by Nikhil Thawal (IFOS AIR 46, CSE 2017 AIR 799) and Ajinkya Yele (Deputy CEO, MPSC
2014 rank 26) with inputs from other Botany optional candidates (esp. Dibya Jyoti Parida Sir).
Serious doubts can be addressed to nikhil.thawal@gmail.com.

Choice of Botany: Choose only if you have background of graduation in life sciences. Otherwise it is
difficult to understand basic concepts. Overlap with GS syllabus is limited (mostly gs3).

Advantage of Botany: A person with science background will feel at home and can avoid the
alienation felt preparing other humanities optionals. Scores have generally been consistent.

How to start:

1. Study the syllabus thoroughly!

2. Analyse previous years question papers (I went as far back as 20 yrs, papers are available on
net) this will help to,
 Access the scope of syllabus (otherwise it is very open ended)
 Trends of the questions
 Prepare Question bank for each topic
3. Look for overlap with your graduation syllabus and pull out those notes.
4. I would advice that one reference book is enough for any one topic (advantage of science
optional, no two ways to look at one fact :D)
5. There is a facebook group called Botany for IAS, it is a small group where you can voice your
queries and find references.

Note making/ Preparation:

Each and every topic/word from the syllabus must be prepared thoroughly.
The format should be,

Topic: Explanation, diagrams, examples, references, contributing scientists with Indian contribution,
uses/applications,

PAPER-I
1. Microbiology and Plant Pathology :

Structure and reproduction/multiplication of viruses, viroids, bacteria, fungi and mycoplasma;

Applications of microbiology in agriculture, industry, medicine and in control of soil and water pollution; Prion
and Prion hypothesis.

Important crop diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma, fungi and nematodes; Modes of
infection and dissemination; Molecular basis of infection and disease resistance/defence; Physiology of
parasitism and control measures. Fungal toxins. Modelling and disease forecasting; Plant quarantine.

Books: Any Graduation level Microbiology Text, specific topics like prions need to be researched, Crop
Diseases (a list of about 20 diseases can be found in any botany text eg Hait prepare diseases in format as per
previous questions, if needed Selective reading of Agrios), Plant quarantine: Prepare India’s mechanisms (asked
in interview)
’15-85, ’14-85, ’13-80, ’12-50
1. Role of microbes in soil nutrient cycling 10 2015
2. Chemical nature of viroids and their transmission in plants 10 2015
3. Role of Fungi in agriculture and medicine 10 2014
4. Role of microbes in Medicine industry 10 2013
5. Various kinds of biofertilizers and their uses 10 2013
6. Lysogenic type of life cycle in viruses 10 2013
7.
8. Describe the disease symptoms, causal organism and the control measures of loose
smut of wheat 15 2015
9. Describe the symptoms, causal organism and the control measures of white rust of
crucifers. 15 2015
10. Describe the causal organism, disease symptoms and the disease control measures of
Red rot of Sugarcane and Late blight of Potato 12.5+12.5 2015
11. Mycotoxins 10 2015
12. Plant Quaratine 10 2014 12 2012
13. Discuss about the Physiology of parasitism 15 2014
14. Describe the causal organism, disease symptoms and the disease control measures of
Tikka disease of Groundnut, Citrus canker, Rust of Wheat, Ergot of rye 12.5 X 4 2014
15. Describe the causal organism, disease symptoms and the disease control measures of
Wilt of Arhar, Green Ear disease of Bajra, Tundu disease of Wheat, Red rot of
Sugarcane 12.5X4 2013
16. Fungal Toxins 12 2012
17. Differentiate between Prions and Viriods; Rust and Smut diseases;; Downy Mildews
and Powdery Mildews 3X 12 2012
18. Citing suitable examples, explain What are prions and why is there a need to
understand them thoroughly? 20 2011
19. Citing suitable examples, explain How are moulds both a bane and boon for human
beings? 20 2011
20. What is meant by modelling and how does it help in disease forecasting? 15 2011
21. Citing suitable examples, explain how laxity in quarantine procedure can have
disastrous effects. 15 2011
22. Describe the process through which the bacterial genes are transferred from one
bacterium to another by the viruses. 15 2010
23. Iron Bacteria 20 2009
24. What is the importance of Bacillus thuringiensis in the current efforts to raise crop
productivity? 20 2010
25. With suitable examples, briefly describe the microbial processes occurring in the
rhizosphere which help in plant growth. 25 2010
26. Five different types of spores are produced by the rust fungi. Mention their names
and their salient points of distinction from each other. 15 2010
27. Microbes in the control of water pollution. 2009
28. Describe the types of plant diseases caused by viruses. Explain their control measures.
20 2007
29. Ultrastructure of a bacterial cell 20 2007
30. Asexual reproduction in Aspergillns 20 2007
31. Prions 2007
32. Molecular basis of infection 20 2006
33. Microbes as indicators of pollution 20 2006
34. DWLD Lytic cycle 20 2006
 35. DWLD Diagnostic stages of any two powdery mildews 20 2006
36. What are the symptoms and causes of hay fever? 20 2006
37. Differentiate between conjugation and transduction in Bacteria. 20 2005
38. Write in short about mycotoxins. 20 2005
39. Description of, conidia formation in Aspergillus. 20 2005
40. Differentiate between bacteria and cyanobacteria. 20 2004
41. Give an account of algae in industry. 20 2004
42. Discuss the sequential steps involved in host pathogen interaction. 20 2004
43. Mention the causal organism, symptoms and control measures of bacterial blight in paddy,
sandal spike and leaf spot in groundnut. 30 2004
44. Give the role of bacteria in fermentation and mention the products. 30 2004
45. Describe the lysogenic life cycle in viruses. 20 2003
46. Describe various types of Path toxins and their role in plant diseases. 20 2003
47. With the help of suitable describe the life cycle of Aspergilius and discuss the economic
importance of this genus. 60
48. Ergot of Bajra 20 2003
49. Blast of Rice 20 2003
50. Stem gall of coriander 20 203
2. Cryptogams :

Algae, fungi, lichens, bryophytes, pteridophytes structure and reproduction from evolutionary
viewpoint; Distribution of Cryptogams in India and their ecological and economic importance.

Books: Text book of Botany-Singh, Pandey, Jain/ by Bhattacharya, Hait and Ghosh

’15-95, ’14-105, ’13-95, ’12- 110

Algae as Bioindicators 10 2015
1. Draw well labelled diagram of the LS of Anthoceros sporophyte. Discuss the
evolutionary significance of Anthoceros also. 8+7 2015
2.
3. Evolution of sexual reproduction in fungi 10 2015
4. Describe the range of vegetative structures with suitable diagrams in volvocales and
their phylogenetic relationships. 20 2015
5. DWLD TS Teleutosorus of Puccinia and give brief description 15 2015
6. Give an account of vegetative reproduction in Ascomycetes 15 2015
7. Describe the method of vegetative reproduction in Bryophytes 10 2015
8. Frutifications in Fungi 10 2014
9. Reproductory organs in Chara 10 2014
10. With the help of SDD the evolution of sporophyte in Bryophytes 20 2014
11. Give an Account of Pigments in algae 15 2014
12. Male thallus with antheriodiophore of Marchantia 12.5 2014
13. VLS of Marsilea sporocarp 12.5 2014
14. VS of sporophyte of Polysiphonia 12.5 2014
15. VS of apothecium of Peziza 12.5 2014
16. Different types of life cycles found in algae 10 2013
17. WHSDD Life cycle of a heteroecious rust 18 2013
18. Describe the various methods of genetic recombination in bacteria 18 2013
19. DWLD LS of antheridiophore of Funaria, LS of sporophyte of Antheceros, Section
through a sorus of fern, Female thallus with archegoniophore of Marchantia. 12.5X4
2013
20. Elaters (liverworts) 12 2012
21. Give an account of Ascus development in fungi with suitable examples. 15 2012
22. Give an illustrated account of range of thallus structure in algae 15 2012
23. DWLD LS of sporophyte of Riccia and Funaria, LS of strobilus of Selaginella, HLS
of Marsilea sporocarp 15X4 2012
24. Differentiate between Eusporangiate and Leptosporangiate ferns 12 2012
25. Bipolar and Tetrapolar heterothallism in fungi 12 2012
26. Briefly describe the importance of Lichens in environment. 10 2011
27. Briefly describe the importance of cryptogams 10 2011
28. Briefly describe the importance of parasexuality 10 2011
29. Draw well labelled diagrams of the L.S. cone of Selaginella 15 2011
30. Draw well labelled diagrams of the L.S. capsule of Funaria 15 2011
31. Draw well labelled diagrams of the Sex organs of Chara 15 2011
32. Draw well labelled diagrams of the Cleistothecia of Erysiphe and Phyllactinia 15
2011
33. Giving suitable reasons, describe inter-alia. Evolutionary status of Psilotum,
Selaginella and Marsilea. 15 2011
34. Give an account of Hcterothallism in fungi. 15 2010
35. Comment on Heterospory in Pteridophytes and its evolutionary significance. 15 2010
36. Discuss ecological significance of Lichens. 20 2010
37. Distinguish clearly between Keratinophilic and Thermophilic fungi. 20 2010
38. Write a note on Psilotum as a living fossil. 15 2010
39. Draw abelled diagrams of transverse and longitudinal sections of sporocarp of
Marsilea. 20 2010
40. Differentiate the archegonium of Funaria from that of Anthoceros. 20 2010
41. Compare the methods of sexual and asexual reproduction in Zygomycota,
Ascomycota and Basidomycota. 20 2009
42. Compare the nature of photosynthetic pigments and carbohydrate reserves in
Euglenophyta, Bacillariophyta and Pheophyta 20 2009
43. Heterotrichous habit of growth in moss protonema 20 2009
44. Differences between hydroids and leptoids 20 2009
45. Structure of chloronerna and caulonerna cells in mosses. 20 2009
46. Thallus organisation in Chlorophyceae 20 2009
47. Describe ultrastructure of flagella in Algae. 20 2007
48. Describe and draw labelled diagrams of steles in pteridophytes with examples. 20
2007
49. Enumerate economic uses of fungi in India. 20 2007
50. Algae as a food, feed and medicine 20 2007
51. Distribution of bryophytes and pteridophytes in deciduous and evergreen forests in
India 20 2007
52. Reproductive stages in Oedogonium. 20 2007
53. How do the following differ from each other: 20x3=60
1) Fungal hyphae and Algal filament a.
2) Sporophytes of Anthoceros and Funaria b.
3) Prothalli of Selaginella and Nephroiepis c.
54. Briefly discuss the phyletic position of photobionts. 20 2006
55. Highligh the uniqueness of the cell structure of Anthoceros 20 2006
56. Cryptogams from Archegoniates. Difference? 20 2006
57. Sporophyte from Gametophyte (in lower organisms) 20 2006
58. DWLD of LS sporocarp of Marsilea 20 2006
59. Give an account of algae in food industry. 20 2005
 60. Write about Bryophytes as indicators of mineral enrichment. 20 2005
61. Range of thallus organization in Marchantiales. 20 2005
62. Evolution of seed habit in Pteridophytes. 20 2005
63. Characteristic features of Pythium. 20 2005
64. Draw well labeled diagram of V. T. s. Thallus of Anthoceros 20 2005
65. Monoecious coenobium of Volvox. 20 2005
66. Mention the indirect uses of Bryophytes. 20 2004
67. Differentiate between homospory and heterospory. 20 2004
68. Describe in detail the types of Ascocarps (Fruit bodies) in Ascomycotina and how
they help in classification 20 2004
69. Sporocarp of Marsilea. 20 2004
70. Evolution of Sporophyte in Bryophytes 20 2004
71. Classify algae according to V. J. Chapman. Give characters of each class. 20 2003
72. Discuss evolution of steles in Pteridophytes. 20 2003
73. Reproductive structure of Chara 20 2003
74. Vegetative reproduction in Bryophytes 20 2003

3. Phanerogams :
Books: Angiosperms by BP Pandey (use any available, Hait Bhattacharya is sufficient
anyway), Taxonomy notes must be up to date

Gymnosperms : Concept of Progymnosperms. Classification and distribution of gymnosperms. Salient features

of Cycadales, Ginkgoales, Coniferales and Gnetales, their structure and reproduction. General account of
Cycadofilicales, Bennettitales and Cordiaitailes; Geological time scale; Type of fossils and their study
techniques.

’15-30, ’14-35, ’13-10, ’12-75

1. Concept of Progymnosperms 10 2015
2. Describe the distribution of living Gymnosperms in India and their economic
importance. 20 2015
3. Formation of Petrifaction 10 2014
4. DWLD Cone of Cycadeoidea, Coralloid root of cycas 12.5 X2 2014
5. Distribution of cycads in India 10 2013
6. Give a brief account of Dwarf shoot in Pinus 12 2012
7. Compare the female strobili of Pinus and Ephedra 15 2012
8. DLD of LS ovule of Cycas 15 2012
9. Why is Ginkgo Biloba considPered a living fossil 15 2012
10. ‘Gymnosperms were perhaps the immediate ancestors of angiosperms’ Substantiate
the statement and also give reasons to disprove the statement 20 2012
11. Describe the evolutionary status of Gnetum. 12 2011
12. Origin of angiosperms from gymnosperms is suggested on the basis of vessels.
Give your critical comments. 15 2010
13. Describe the fructification in Williamsonia. 15 2010
14. With the help of labelled diagrams, compare the female gametophyte of Cycas
with that of Gnetum. 20 2010
15. Fructifications in cup-fungi 20 2009
16. What are the salient features of Bennettitales? 20 2009
17. With the help of well-labelled diagrams, explain the distinguishing features of Ovule
of Gnetum. and Pinus. 20 2009
18. Discuss secondary growth in lianas. 20 2007
 19. Draw neat and labelled diagrams of the Male cone and Microsporophyll of Pinus 20
2007
20. Citing suitable examples explain what is meant by ‘form genus’ 20 2006
21. Commonalities and differences between Cyeadofilicales and Cyeads 20 2006
22. Differentiate between manoxylic and pycnoxylic wood, giving examples. 20 2005
23. Give the salient features of Cycadales. 20 2005
24. Explain pollination in Cycas. 20 2005
25. Give an account of Rhynia. 20 2004
26. Give the salient features of Cordaitales. 20 2004
27. Explain the secondary growth in Pinus stem. 20 2004
28. Importance of Cycadofilicales. 20 2003
29. Anomalous secondary growth in Dracaena. 20 2003
30. Describe the development of male gametophyte in Gnetum. Discuss the impotence of
this genus. 60 2003

Angiosperms : Systematics, anatomy, embryology, palynology and phylogeny.

Taxonomic hierarchy; International Code of Botanical Nomenclature; Numerical taxomomy and

chemotaxomomy; Evidence from anatomy, embryology and palynology. Origin and evolution of
angiosperms; Comparative account of various systems of classification of angiosperms;

Angiosperms: Systematics - Gurcharan Singh(prepare the intial 4 chapters which contains icbn,alpha
omega taxonomy, nomenclature rules)

’15-60, ’14-125, ’13-165, ’12-120

1. Relevance of numerical taxonomy 10 2014

2. Position of monocots in APG classification 10 2014
3. Importance of typification in plant nomenclature 10 2014
4. Describe in detail Hutchinson’s system of classification and compare it with the
classification system of Engler and Prantl 20 2014
5. Beta Taxonomy 10 2013
6. NPC(number position character) system (palynology) 10 2013
7. Compare and contrast Bentham and Hooker’s System of classification with
Hutchingson’s system of classification. 25 2013
8. What are the differences between the Systematics and Classification. 10 2011
9. What are the differences between Megasporogenesis and Megagametogenesis. 10
2011
10. What are the differences between the Isotype and Syntype 10 2011
11. Explain the role of macro and micro biomolecules in taxonomy. 12 2011
12. Describe OTUs 10 2011
13. Describe the structure and function of synergids in angiosperms. 20 2010
14. Contributions of the following scientists in plant systeniatics (i) A. P. dc Condolle (ii)
Carl Linnaeus (iii) Theophrastus 20 2009
15. Discuss Omega taxonomy with reference to chemical substances. 30 2009
16. Draw neat and labelled diagrams of Male and female flower of Euphorbia 20 2007
17. Alpha and Omega taxonomy 20 2006
18. Give the classification of angiosperms as proposed by Hutchinson. Discuss its
19. merits and demerits. 20 2005
 20. Give an account of pollen grain morphology and application of palynology. 20 2004
21. Discuss the role of chemotaxonomy and numerical taxonomy in systematics of
Angiosperms. 20 2004
22. Development of female gametophyte in Angiosperms. 20 2003

Study of angiospermic families— Mangnoliaceae, Ranunculaceae, Brassicaceae, Rosaceae, Fabaceae

(Papilionaceae), Euphorbiaceae, Malvaceae, Dipterocarpaceae, Apiaceae, Asclepiadaceae, Verbenaceae,
Solanaceae, Rubiaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Asteraceae, Poaceae, Arecaceae, Liliaceae, Musaceae and Orchidaceae.

1. Write an account of the following families with respect to floral structures. Give the
botanical names of three important plant species belonging to each and specify their
uses: Ranunculaceae and Fabaceae 10+10 2015 ; Orchidaceae, Magnoliaceae,
Asteraceae, Rubiaceae 12.5 X4 2014; Poaceae, Liliaceae, Asclepiadaceae 17+17+16
2013
2. Distinguish the Androecium of Malvaceae, Asteraceae and Asclepiadaceae from each
other 12.5 2015
3. Compare the floral characters of the family Solanaceae and Malvaceae 12.5 2015
4. DNWD TS of cyathium of Euphorbia and VS of leaf of Welwitschia 12.5 X2 2014
5. Make a comparision of Androecium in Malvaceae, Asteraceae and Cucurbitaceae 12
2012
6. Asteraceae is considered as one of the highly evolved families of angiosperms. Give
an account of advanced characters in Asteraceae 15 2012
7. Compare and contrast the floral characters of the three sub-families of Leguminosae
15 2012
8. Discuss the role of amphibious plants in the evolution of land plants. 15 2011
9. What are the differences between Apiaceae and Umbelliferae. 10 2011
10. What are the differences between the Palaeozoic and Coenozoic plants 10 2011
11. Describe Gynoecium in Asclepiadaceae, Brassicacea and Poaceae. 10 2011
12. Discuss whether the angiosperms are monophyletic or polyphyletic.20 2010
13. With suitable examples, enumerate the floral characteristics of bird pollinated
trees. 20 2010
14. Compare the androecium in the following groups of families : (i) Malvaceae and
Fabaceae (ii) Asclepiadaceae and Asteraceae (iii) Solanaceae and Brassicaceae 20
2010
15. With the help of well-labelled diagrams, explain the distinguishing features of Flower
of Dolichos and Caesalpinia. 20 2009
16. Give an account of the use of pollen morphological characters in systematics. 20 2007
17. Compare the outline of system of classification of angiosperms proposed by
Hutchinson with the system proposed by Bentham and Hooker. 20 2007
18. Draw neat and labelled diagrams of the Stomata of sunflower and maize 20 2007
19. Give an account of diagnostic characters of Liliaceae and Palmae with suitable
20. examples. 30 2007
21. Describe the morphological nature of commercial cotton, clove and saffron. 20 2006
22. Describe the phyletic position of Magnoliaceae. 20 2006
23. How will you distinguish between the following pairs of families on the basis of
24. important floral characters?
a) Malvaceae and Brassicaceae b) Leguminosae and Solanaceae
25. Floral structure and primitive characters of Magnoliaceae. 20 2004
26. Floral structure and floral formula of Poaceae. 20 2004
27. Differentiate between the pollinia of Asclepiadaceae and Orchidaceae. 20 2004
 28. Give the salient features of Bentham and Hooker's system of classification. 20 2004
29. Write an account of floral structures of the following families. Give botanical names
of three important plant species belonging to each of the three families and specify
their uses a) Astaracae, b) Solanacae, c) Asclepiadaceae

Stomata and their types; Glandular and non-glandular trichomes; Unusual secondary growth; Anatomy
of C3 and C4 plants; Xylem and phloem differentiation; Wood anatomy.

Development of male and female gametophytes, pollination, fertilization; Endosperm—its

development and function. Patterns of embryo development; Polyembroyony, apomixes; Applications of
palynology; Experimental embryology including pollen storage and test-tube fertilization.

Book: embryology-bhojwani bhatnagar

’15-76, ’14-125, ’13-165, ’12-120

30. Describe the anomalous secondary growth in monocots with suitable diagram 16 2015
31. Embryo Development in Arabidopsis 10 2014
32. Types of Protosteles 10 2013
33. Double fertilization 10 2013
34. Types of Endosperms 17, Types of ovules 17, Apomixis 16 2013
35. Differentiate between Polarity and Symmetry 12 2012
36. Differentiate between interxylary and intraxylary phloems 12 2012
37. Give a brief account of polyembryony in Angiosperms 12 2012
38. Compare the development of typical monosporic, bisporic and tetrasporic embryo
sacs 15 2012
39. Draw a cross section of a typical anther and label the parts carefully 20 2012
40. ‘Embryology has also played an important role in taxonomy of angiosperms’
Substantiate the statement and also give reasons to disprove the statement 15 2012
41. What are the differences between Fascicular and Cork cambium. 10 2011
42. What are Ubisch bodies? How and where are these formed and what is their role?
5+10 2011
43. What is interxylary phloem? How is it formed?. Support your reply with suitable
examples and at least one diagram. 2+3+10 2011
44. What is Nemec phenomenon? Comment on its significance. 10 2011
45. Describe Stomatal apparatus in Brassica, Dianthus and Poa. 10 2011
46. Describe Pollinium. 10 2011
47. Describe the development of pollen exine and point out the role of sporopollenin. 15
2010
48. What arc the changes that occur during the conversion of sapwood into
heartwood ? Which is more durable - sapwood or heartwood, and why ? 20 2010
49. Give an account of the main events in the differentiation of a tracheary element.
20 2010
50. Cleavage polyembryony 20 2009
51. Diagrammatically explain the structure-function relationship of plasmodesmata. 20
2009
52. Comment on the formation of amphivasal vascular bundles in Dracaena. 20 2009
53. Name the genera belonging to phylum Gnetophyta. Mention their angiosperm like
features, types of tracheary elements and leaves. 20 2009
54. With the help of well-labelled diagrams, explain the distinguishing features of
Porogamy and Chalazogamy. 20 2009
55. Discuss Tetrasporic embryo sac. 30 2009
56. Stomatal movements 20 2009
 57. Secondary growth in woody monocots 20 2007
58. Development of a bisporic embryo sac 20 2006
59. Nemec phenomenon 20 2006
60. Phenomenon of apomixis and its importance 20 2006
61. Explain secondary growth in dicotyledonous stem. 20 2005
62. Give an account of the pollen grain formation in dicots and monocots. 60 2005
63. Explain the Tunica Corpus theory. 20 2004
64. Differentiate between xylem and phloem. 20 2004

4. Plant Resource Development :

Domestication and introduction of plants; Origin of cultivated plants, Vavilov’s centres of origin.
Plants as sources for food, fodder, fibres, spices, beverages, edible oils, drugs, narcotics, insecticides, timber,
gums, resins and dyes; latex, cellulose, starch and its products; Perfumery; Importance of Ethnobotany in Indian
context; Energy plantations; Botanical Gardens and Herbaria.

Book: web resources and Economic Botany by Kochar.

’15- 65, ’14-10, ’13-25, ’12-95

1. Dye yielding plants 10 2015
2. Ethnobotanical knowledge and beliefs in species conservation 10 2015
3. Discuss the components of a full fledged Botanical garden 15 2015
4. Describe the oil yielding plants of India and their economic importance 12.5 2015
5. Give an account of Vavilov’s Centres of Origin of the cultivated plants 17 2015
6. Energy plantations 10 2014
7. Give the botanical names of ten important Fibre-yielding plants and describe their
uses. 25 2013
8. Write botanical names and the families Flax, Guar, Date palm, Cocaine, Ginseng,
Any timber plant 5X12 2012
9. Vavilov’s theory indicates that ‘A region with the greatest genetic diversity is also the
centre of origin of that particular species’ this statement is no longer tenable. Explain
with two examples 20 2012
10. Ethnobotany has provided important clues to discovery of modern drugs. Give an
account of Ethnobotany taking some suitable examples. 15 2012
11. Describe the characteristic features of the component on the basis of which the basic
source/s of a sample of honey is/are determined. 15 2011
12. Citing suitable examples, defend the statement that "there is need to combine
ethnobotany with IPR". 12 2011
13. Describe energy plantation 10 2011
14. Describe Retting 10 2011
15. Name five edible oil yielding plants. Give their botanical names and families. 15
2010
16. Give the botanical names of the plant species, their families, part used and the uses
of annatto and haematoxylin. 20 2010
17. Semi-moist preservation of food 20 2009
18. Critical note on Plants as sources of insecticides (Pyrethrin and Rotenone) 20 2009
19. Significance of Energr Plantations 20 2009
20. Describe the importance of ethnobotany in the welfare of tribal and rural people. 20
2007
 21. Botanical name, active constituents and uses of any five commercial medicinal plants
of India 20 2007
22. Describe the commercial importance of gum, resin and dye yielding plants in India.
30 2007
23. Vavilovian centres of origin of crop plants 20 2006
24. Ethnobotany and its importance 20 2006
25. Distribution in India of the genus yielding “Taxol” 20 2006
26. Give in short an account of five pulse yielding crops. 20 2005
27. Give a short account of any two plant fibres. 20 2005
28. Give an account of plant gums. 20 2004
29. Give an account of beverage yielding plants. 20 2004
30. Energy plantation and its importance. 20 2003
31. Discuss the importance of Ethno botany in India. 30 2003
32. Give botanical names of ten spice yielding plants and write the name of their families.
30 2003

5. Morphogenesis :

Totipotency, polarity, symmetry and differentiation; Cell, tissue, organ and protoplast culture. Somatic
hybrids and Cybrids; Micropropagation; Somaclonal variation and its applications; Pollen haploids, embryo
rescue methods and their applications.

Books: tissue culture by razdan, plant development chapter in Gilbert developmental biology book,
Plant Cell and Tissue Culture by Indra Vasil, Also quote Indian contributions esp. Guha and Maheshwari in
answers, Very scoring!

’15-65, ’14-30, ’13-14, ’12-25

1. Concept of Totipotency in Higher plants 10 2015

2. Use of Somaclonal variations in crop improvement 10 2015 Crop development with
suitable examples 15 2012
3. Give an account of Micropropagation and its utility towards ex-situ conservation of
rare and endangered plants. 15 2015
4. Somatic hybrids can be characterised by a variety of methods. Substantiate the above
statement. 12.5 2015
5. Describe the method of production of androgenic haploids. 17 2015
6. Discuss the Role of Tissue Culture in crop improvement 15 2014
7. How are plant protoplasts isolated and fused15 2014
8. Importance of Totipotency in tissue culture. 14 2013
9. Cytoplasmic hybrids 12 2012
10. Describe the enzymatic methods of isolation of protoplasts taking the example of
Carrot 15 2012
11. Briefly describe the importance of Somaclonal variation. 10 2011
12. Briefly describe the importance of polarity 10 2011
13. Citing suitable examples, explain The embryo rescue techniques for successful raising
of recombinants. 20 2011
14. Describe to what extent has the technique of micropropagation been successful in
achieving our goals. 15 2011
 15. Describe various mechanisms employed to raise hybrids between incompatible
species. 12 2011
16. How would you test the clonal fidelity of the micropropagated plants? Describe. 15
2010
17. What are somaclonal variations? How are these utilized for crop improvement? 20
2010
18. Name three enzymes used for isolation of plant protoplasts. Which of the following
tissues would give a better yield of enzymatically isolated protoplasts and why? 1)
Aerenchyma, 2) Mesophyll 20 2009
19. What cellular/subcellular changes would demonstrate polarity induction in cell
suspensions? How can these changes be demonstrated.? 20 2009
20. Applications of plant tissue culture in forestry and agriculture 20 2007
21. What is polarity and how does it affect differentiation? 20 2006
22. How do following differ -Hybrid from Cybrid. 20 2006
23. Practical application of ovule culture 20 2006
24. Protoplast culture and its importance 20 2006
25. Write a critical note on somatic hybrid and cybrid. 20 2005
26. Tissue culture and its importance 20 2004
27. Totipotency 20 2003

PAPER-II

1. Cell Biology :

Techniques of cell biology. Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells—structural and ultrastructural details;
Structure and function of extracellular matrix (cell wall) and membranes-cell adhesion, membrane transport and
vesicular transport; Structure and function of cell organelles (chloroplasts, mitochondria, ER, dictyosomes
ribosomes, endosomes, lysosomes, peroxisomes; Cytoskeleton and microtubules; Nucleus, nucleolus, nuclear
pore complex; Chromatin and nucleosome; Cell signalling and cell receptors; Signal transduction Mitosis and
meiosis; molecular basis of cell cycle. Numerical and structural variations in chromosomes and their
significance; Chromatin organization and packaging
of genome; Polytene chromosomes; B chromosomes— structure, behaviour and significance.
35-’15,

Book: verma agarwal, plus p k gupta genetics book. I used World of cell (I had used in Institute, not
recommended for others), you can refer to any cell biology book, Prepare notes specific to plant cell organelle
characteristics!
1. Polyteny and Polypoidy-differentiate
2. Mitochondria 10 2015
3. Extrisic and Intrinsic proteins 10 2015
4. Diff bet pro and Eukaryotic cells 15 2015
5. Cell cycle. Imp. Proteins that control it 20 2014
6. Structure and composition of Ribosome 15 2014
7. Exposing Polytene chromosomes to Actinomycin 10 2013
8. Removal of H1 protein from cell 10 2013
9. Exposing dividing cells to CDK1 10 2013
10. Formation, structure and chemical composition of Glycocalyx 20 2013
11. Pachytene 10 2013
12. Most abundant Biological molecule in plants and its types 15 2013
13. Pathways taken by secreted proteins 10 2012
 14. Compare different types of RNA and protein components found in Ribosomes of
prokaryotes and eukaryotes 20 2012
15. Role of CdK and cyclins 15 2012
16. Explain how the chromatin modification leads to genome expression. 15 2011
17. What are the major functions of cytoskeleton in living cells? 15 2011
18. Describe briefly, how RNA molecule transports within the eukaryotic cell. 15 2011
19. Signal transduction in Prokaryotes 15 2010
20. Explain Origin of mitochondria 15 2010
21. Distinguish between Smooth and rough ER 10 2010
22. Distinguish between Ribosomes and Peroxisomes 10 2010
23. Distinguish between Membrane proteins in ion transport. 10 2010
24. Short notes on Organelle genomes 20 2009
25. Distinguish between channels and carrier proteins and their roles in regulating
membrane transport. 30 2009
26. Distinguish between Heterochromatin and Euchrornatin 30 2009
27. Structure of mitochondria in relation to function 20 2007
28. Describe the molecular basis of cell cycle 30 2007
29. Explain the structure and significance of lampbrush and B-chromosomes 30 2007
30. Structure of plasma membrane 20 2006
31. Polytene Chromosome 20 2005
32. Signal Transduction 20 2005
33. Describe in detail the ultrastructure of Golgi Complex and its function. 20 2005
34. Meiosis 20 2004
35. Describe in detail the structure and functions of mitochondria (60). 2004
36. Structure and Significance of Lamp brush Chromosomes. 20 2003
37. Describe in detail the physical properties of cell membrane. 30 2003
38. How does the water and solutes move through the cell membrane? 30 2003

2. Genetics, Molecular Biology and Evolution :

Development of genetics, and gene versus allele concepts (Pseudoalleles); Quantitative genetics and
multiple factors; Incomplete dominance, polygenic inheritance, multiple alleles; Linkage and crossing over of
gene mapping including molecular maps (idea of mapping, function); Sex chromosomes and sexlinked
inheritance; sex determination and molecular basis of sex differentiation; Mutations (biochemical and molecular
basis); Cytoplasmic inheritance and cytoplasmic genes (including genetics of male sterility).

Structure and synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins; Genetic code and regulation of gene expression;
Gene silencing; Multigene families; Organic evolution-evidences, mechanism and theories. Role of RNA in
origin and evolution.
’15-80,

Books: It is our observation that some obscure questions keep coming from books written by PK Gupta

1. Describe about the factors that affect the recombination frequencies 10 2016
2. C-value paradox 10 2016
3. Chemical Mutagens 10 2016
4. “The consequences of translocations are profound. They lead not only to a change in gene
linkage in the translocated sections but also to easily incurred meiotic abnormalities.”
Discuss. 15 2016
5. Citing suitable evidences, explain plastid inheritance in four o’clock plant. 15 2016
6. Genetic Code 10 2015
7. Evidence of organic evolution 15 2015
8. Structure behaviour and significance of special type of chromosomes 15 2015
9. Role of RNA in origin and evolution 20 2015
10. Mutations (biochemical and molecular basis) 20 2015
11. Mendels law of Inheritence [dominance] differ from incomplete dominance 10 2014
12. Why do chromosomal aberrations happen 15 2014 describe various chromosomal
aberrations 20 2015
13. Glucose grown cells of E. coli transferred to lactose medium, fate of Lac operon 15
2014
14. rRNA for phylogenetics study 15 2014
15. exp. Evidence of DNA as genetic material 15 2014 10 2012
39. Illegitimate crossing over between normal and accessory chromosome 10 2013
40. Intra-allelic recombination 10 2013
41. With example, explain tripartite type of sex determination 15 2013
42. ‘Genes donot arise denovo’. Keeping in view this fact describing the phenomena that
must have helped in increasing the no. of genes during evolution 20 2013
43. CMS gene location and action, what are Restorer genes 15 2013
44. Neo-Darwinism 10 2013
45. Linkage 10 2013
46. Role of RNA world in origin and evolution 10 2012
47. Dist bet suppressor and reverse mutation 10 2012
48. Site specific recombination and role of recombinase enzyme 10 2012
49. Annueploidy and chromosomal variations found in aannuploid plant 20 2012
50. Transposoms and how do they cause mutations 20 2012
51. Lac operon and its expression in presence and absence of functional regulatory gene
15 2012
52. Chromosomal basis of sex differentiation in plants 15 2012
53. Infectious proteins brought a change in concept of inheritance 15 2012
54. Fate of two homologous chromosomes that have undergone unilateral crossing over
15 2012
55. Describe about the factors that affect the recombination frequencies. 15 2011
56. Explain antisense RNA technology with an example. Highlight its applications. 15
2011
57. How can you identify the multigene families? Discuss the significance of identical or
non-identical genes of multigene families. 15 2011
58. Explain the Theory of Age and Area. 15 2011
59. Discuss the mechanism of the regulation of gene activity in lactose operon "with"
reference to beta-galactosidase activity. 15 2011
60. Distinguish between monoploid and haploid and their role in evolution. 15 2011
61. What is RNA splicing? Describe the known mechanism of RNA splicing for group-
II introns. 15 2011
62. How can you prove that DNA is a genetic material? Describe with a suitable
example. 15 2011
63. Explain Spontaneous mutations 15 2010
64. Explain RFLPs 15 2010
65. Differentiate between : Negative and positive gene regulation. 15 2010
66. Differentiate between Homologous and Heterologous recombinations 15 2010
67. Differentiate between Exons and Introns. 15 2010
68. Differentiate between Transition and Transversion. 15 2010
69. Tautomeric shifts and mutations 20 2009
 70. Bidirectional synthesis of DNA in E. Coli 20 2009
71. Comment briefly on the contributionsmade by Herman Nilsson-Ehle. 15 2009
72. Male sterility 20 2007
73. Describe the principles of protein biosynthesis. 2007
74. Discuss the methods of gene mapping 30 2007
75. Polytene chromosomes 20 2006
76. DNA damage and repair 20 2006
77. Explain linkage and crossing-over. Describe the methods of construction of gene
78. Maps. 30 2006
79. What are mutations? Describe different types of mutations and add a note on chemical
mutagens 30 2006
80. Uses and applications of correlation and regression analysis in plant genetics 20 2006
81. Explain the mechanism of DNA replication 20 2006
82. Discuss cytoplasmic inheritance 20 2006
83. Describe in brief the regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes 20 2006
84. Describe properties of Genetic Code. 20 2005
85. Describe the role of RNA in origin and evolution. 60 2005
86. Sex-linked inheritance 20 2004
87. Discuss the synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins (60). 2004
88. Evolution. 20 2003
89. Gametophytic apomix. 20 2003
90. What is Cytoplasmic inheritance? 10 2003
91. Describe the Cytoplasmic-genetic male sterility. 20 2003
92. Describe in detail the method of producing hybrid seeds using Cytoplasmic-genetic
male sterility system. 30

3. Plant Breeding, Biotechnology and Biostatistics :

Methods of plant breeding—introduction, selection and hybridization (pedigree, backcross, mass

selection, bulk method); Mutation, polyploidy, male sterility and heterosis breeding. Use of apomixes in plant
breeding; DNA sequencing; Genetic engineering—methods of transfer of genes; Transgenic crops and biosafety
aspects; Development and use of molecular markers in plant breeding; Tools and techniques—probe, southern
blotting, DNA fingerprinting, PCR and FISH. Standard deviation and coefficient of variation (CV). Tests of
significance (Z-test, t-test and chi-square tests). Probability and distributions (normal, binomial and Poisson).
Correlation and regression.
’15-85,

Books: Directly referred to Net resources and Molecular biology Text by Watson. Biostatistics is not to be
ignored, keeps coming in compulsory questions.
1. Molecular markers 10 2016
2. Hybrid Vigour 10 2015
3. Self incompatability 10 2015
4. Methods of Gene Transfer 20 2015
5. Method of developing disease and insect resistance varieties by Back-cross method 15
2015
6. Numerical variations in chromosomes 15 2015
7. Mechanism of disease resistance 15 2015
8. Selection of Cytoplasmic genetic male sterility in the development of hybrid variety
10 2014
9. FISH in tracking the target organism 10 2014
10. Application of radio memetic chemicals 10 2014
11. Test of significance in biology 10 2014
12. What are molecular probes, mention application in biology 15 2014
13. How would you develop improved variety of basmati rice for organic farming
conditions 20 2014
14. GISH in indentifying putative ancestors of plants 15 2013
15. With the help of well established example explain how replacement of a purine by a
pyrimidine can induce mutation 15 2013
16. Balanced Lethal System 10 2013
17. Chi-square test 10 2013
18. DNA-DNA Hybridisation in study of biodiversity 15 2012
19. Gene markers and imp in biological studies 15 2012
20. Use of apomixes in plant breeding 15 2012
21. Primers and PCR 15 2012
22. Concept of blotting and Southern blotting 15 2012
23. Discuss the mechanism of T-DNA transfer from Agrobacterium tumefaciens to host
plant. 15 2011
24. Comment on 'EPSPS' and 'Tra' genes 15 2011
25. Describe different methods of gene transfer in plants. 15 2011
26. Explain interspecific and intergeneric hybridization. Comment on Raphano-brassica.
15 2011
27. Highlight the biosafety aspects arising out of plant genetic engineering. 15 2011
28. Explain the current developments in transgenic technology contributing to crop
improvement. 15 2011
29. How will you identify the expression of a cloned gene? 15 2011
30. Define agamospermy. What is its significance in crop improvement? 20 2010
31. Explain Normal distribution. 15 2010
32. Explain FISH technique and its importance in understanding genomic relationships
among spec1es. 30 2010
33. Describe in detail the Agrobacterium-mediated gene transfers in the development of
transgenic crop pants. 30 2010
34. Describe the method of developing maize hybrids. 30 2010
35. Backcross method of breeding 20 2009
36. Discuss the origin. production and uses of haploids. 30 2009
37. Describe biosafety regulatory measures for raising transgenic crops. 30 2009
38. List the important statistical methods of studying association and relationship
between two variables. 15 2009
39. Give an account of the PCR based molecular markers and their applications in plant
breeding. 30 2009
40. Probability and distributions, with suitable illustrations. 20 2007
41. Explain the methods of transfer of genes into plants 30 2007
42. Describe the methods of selection and hybridization used in plant breeding 30 2007
43. Molecular markers in plant breeding 20 2006
44. Techniques of breeding self-pollinated crops 20 2006
45. Transgenic plants. 20 2005
46. Standard deviation. 20 2005
47. Define hybrid vigour. Describe anyone method of hybridization for crop
improvement. 60 2005
48. Mass selection 20 2004
49. Chi-squre test 20 2004
50. Describe the back-cross method of breeding in crop varieties (30). 2004
 51. Describe in detail the various uses of back-cross method of breeding and its
limitations (30). 2004
52. Pure Line Selection. 20 2003
53. What do you understand by genetic engineering? 15 2003
54. Describe in detail the agro bacterium-mediated gene transfer method for producing
transgenic plants. 45 2003

4. Physiology and Biochemistry:

Photosynthesis—photochemical reactions, photophosphorylation and carbon fixation pathways; C3, C4

and CAM pathways; Photorespiration; Respiration (anaerobic and aerobic, including fermentation)—electron
transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation; Chemiosmotic theory and ATP synthesis; Lipid metabolism;
Nitrogen fixation and nitrogen metabolism. Enzymes, coenzymes; Energy transfer and energy conservation.

Water relations, mineral nutrition and ion transport, mineral deficiencies. Mechanism of phloem
transport, Importance of secondary metabolites. Pigments as photoreceptors (plastidial pigments and
phytochrome).
Plant movements; Photoperiodism and flowering, vernalization, senescence; Growth substances—their
chemical nature, role and applications in agri horticulture; growth indices, growth movements.

Stress physiology (heat, water, salinity, metal); Fruit and seed physiology. Dormancy, storage and
germination of seed. Fruit ripening—its molecular basis and manipulation.

Books: http://plantsinaction.science.uq.edu.au/ (excellent web resource)

I used Biochemistry by Lehninger (typical Biotech course reference book, not necessary for preparation).

1. ATP synthase 10 2015

2. Senescence 10 2015
3. Process of biological nitrogen fixation with special emphasis of denitrogenase 15 +5
2015
4. Sub mitochondrial complexes asso. With ETC of aerobic respiration 15 2015
5. Water relations in crop plants 15 2015
6. Phytochrome induced reponses in flowering higher plants. How do they control
flowering 10+5 2015
7. Mechanism of C02 fix. In CAM plants 15 2015
8. Apical dominance 10 2014
9. Zn deficiency in crop plants 10 2014
10. Mechanism of Drought resistance 10 2014
11. Seed germination. What is normal and abnormal seedlings 15 2014
12. Role of Mesophyll and bundle sheath cells in C4 20 2014
13. How PMF drives synthesis of ATP 15 2014
14. What are symplasmids? Mention role in root nodulation and N2 fixation 15 2014
15. Does the process of nitrification generate ATP and how is this energy conserved 15
2014
16. Saffron corms transplanted in delhi in dec 10, did not flower in ’11 and ’12 10 2013
17. Kranz Anatomy 10 2013
18. Secondary Metabolites, uses to plants and humans 20 2013
19. Diff bet Growth development and differentiation. Describe the factors that influence
these processes 15 2013
20. Stress physiology, mitigating problems, change in global env 15 2013
21. Transports of solutes in phanerophytes 10 2013
22. Overcoming seed dormancy 10 2013
23. Pathway of Carbon fixation in tropical grasses and its advantage 12 2012
24. What makes leguminous plants to grow under N2 stress conditions? 12 2012
25. Dist bet passive and facilitated diffusion 12 2012
26. Process of anaerobic Glucose catabolism and mention the mode of ATP generation
during the process 20 2012
27. Rubisco location, function 20 2012
28. Chemiosmotic generation of ATP 15 2012
29. Light energy capture in green plants 15 2012
30. What strategies are employed by plants for the uptake of iron under conditions of iron
stress? 15 2011
31. Present the current model for long distance transport of floral stimulus. 15 2011
32. What evidences support starch statolith hypothesis for gravitropism ? 15 2011
33. What is the chemical nature of "saponins? How do saponins provide defence against
fungal attack on plants? 15 2011
34. Schematically present ethylene biosynthesis in plants. Describe illustrate the 'triple
response' due to ethylene.
35. What is an osmosensor? How does a two-component sensing/signalling contribute to
osmosensing? 15 2011
36. Compare the pattern of C02 and ethylene production in a climacteric fruit. 15 2011
37. Explain Secondary metabolites and plant protection 15 2010
38. Explain Photolysis of water 15 2010
39. Explain Calcium in plant growth 15 2010
40. How would you distinguish between enzymes and co-enzymes ? 15 2010
41. Differentiate between climacteric and non-climacteric fruits. 15 2010
42. Explain the process of fruit ripening and its regulation. 30 2010
43. Explain photo-receptors and their role in regulation of plant growth. 15 2010
44. Describe the role of growth regulators in sex expression of plants. 15 2010
45. Crassulacean Acid Metabolism 20 2009
46. Describe the mitochondrial electron transport chain and theories for ATP synthesis.
30 2009
47. Describe vernalization and its role in flowering. 30 2009
48. Leaf senescence 20 2009
49. Physiological effects of et.hylene in plants 20 2009
50. Describe C4 pathway of CO2 fixation. In what
51. respects does it differ from the 'C3 pathway '?
52. Mention the specialised anatomical features associated with C4 photosynthesis. 60
2009
53. Co-enzymes 20 2007
54. Nitrogen cycle 20 2007
55. Vernalization 20 2007
56. Describe the components of photosynthetic electron transport, with reference to the
structure of thylakoid membranes. 30 2007
57. Discuss the adaptive measures of plants in response to their exposure to water stress.
30 2007
58. What is dormancy? Where does it occur in plants? Describe various methods of
breaking dormancy. 30 2007
59. Enumerate the applications of growth hormones in agri-horticulture, while
commenting on their physiological basis. 30 2007
60. Discuss the role of any three trace elements in plant nutrition. Give their deficiency
symptoms. 20 2006
 61. Explain the mechanisms of respiratory functions in plants 20 2006
62. Describe the photosynthetic carbon assimilation in C3 and C4 plants 20 2006
63. Explain the factors that affect photosynthesis. Define photosynthetic efficiency of
crops 20 2006
64. Write an account of the physiological changes that occur during high temperature
stress. How plants have adopted physiologically for tolerance of high temperature
stress 30 2006
65. Describe the effects of metal stress on plant growth and development 30 2006
66. Non-cyclic photophosphorylation 20 2005
67. Nitrogenases 20 2005
68. Fruit-ripening 20 2005
69. Define auxins. Describe their physiological response in plants. 20 2005
70. Photoperiodism 20 2004
71. Seed dormancy 20 2004
72. Describe the principle categories of enzymes involved in respiratory reactions (60).
2004
73. What do you understand by mineral nutrition of crop plants (20)? 2004
74. Describe the role of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash on plant growth (40). 2004
75. CO2 fixation in C4 plants 20 2003
76. Seed germination 20 2003
77. What do you understand by verbalization? Discuss the factors that influence
78. verbalization. 40 2003
79. Describe the practical significance of verbalization. 20 2003
80. What do you understand by a biotic stresses? 20 2003
81. Describe in detail the mechanism of salt stress on plants. 30 2003
82. Describe the effect of salt stress on plant growth. 10 2003

5. Ecology and Plant Geography :

Concept of ecosystem; Ecological factors. Concepts and dynamics of community; Plant succession.
Concepts of biosphere; Ecosystems; Conservation; Pollution and its control (including phytoremediation); Plant
indicators; Environment (Protection) Act.

Forest types of India—‘Ecological and economic importance of forests, afforestation, deforestation and
social forestry; Endangered plants, endemism IUCN categories, Red Data Books; Biodiversity and its
conservation; Protected Area Network; Convention of Biological Diversity, Farmers’ Rights; and Intellectual
Property Rights; Concept of Sustainable Development; Biogeochemical cycles. Global warming and climatic
change; Invasive species; Environmental Impact Assessment; Phytogeographical regions of India.

Books: Web resources.

1. Conservation of biodiversity 10 2015

2. Species based mechanism of invasion 10 2015
3. Mainstream forms of renewable energy 10 2015
4. Discuss principal systems of environment Pollution and reasons thereof 15 2015
5. Diff. Natural Vs Social forests. Objectives of social forestry 5+15 2015
6. Four Phytogeographical regions of India 15 2015
7. Advantages and limitations of Phytoremediation 20 2015
8. IUCN classification of extinction risks 10 2014
9. Biological species concept 10 2014
10. Define Biodiversity and measures to conserve it 15 2014
11. Role of Int. and National org. for Germplasm conservation 20 2014
83. Brief note on concept of sustainable development 15 2014 15 2012
84. Explain how air and water pollution affect agro eco-system 20 2014
12. Lichen rich area becomes devoid of it 10 2013
13. Species is added to red data book 10 2013
14. Pond is completely covered with Eichornia 10 2013
15. Diff. Afforestation and Reforestation, Gains and Pitfalls of Monoculture in forestation
practise 15 2013
16. Phytogeographical zones. Details of zone with high temp restricted snowfall and high
rainfall with abundance of rhododendrons, ferns, orchids and oaks. 20 2013
17. EIA 10 2013
18. Energy trapping 10 2013
19. Controlling pollution by biotic means 10 2013
20. Superbug, its properties and possible role in bioremediation 12 2012
21. Ozone depleting substance and their mechanism 12 2012
22. IUCN threat categories of biodiversity and implications 20 2012
23. Ecological significance of nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria associated with
biogeochemical cycle 15 2012
24. Hot spots and Hot spots in India with few imp species 15 2012
25. Eco regulation, plant appearance disappearance leading to climatic climax/ecological
climax/biotic climax 15 2012
26. Briefly describe the importance of microbes in bioremediation 10 2011
27. Explain the ecological significance of forests. 15 2011
28. Explain the concept of limiting factor in ecology. 15 2011
29. Explain salient features of "The Environment Protection Act" and mention how far it
is effective' in maintenance of the quality of environment. 15 2011
30. What is eutrophication ? What are its impacts on the ecosystem? 15 2011
31. Explain the quantitative characteristics of a plant community. 15 2011
32. What is 'Satpura hypothesis'? How does it explain discontinuous distribution of
certain species? 15 2011
33. Give the basis of classification of lndian forests and give its outline. 15 2011
34. Explain CDM 15 2010
35. Explain Progressive ecological efficiency 15 2010
36. There are exceptions to the ecological pyramids. Explain. 15 2010
37. Explain the role of surface run-off in nutrient budget of ecosystems. 15 2010
38. Mention the attributes of a species to make it invasive. 15 2010
39. Mention the 'hot spots' of India, and the reasons to recognise them as hot spots. 15
2010
40. 'Feedback loops• are the regulatory mechanisms that determine whatever changes take
place in the ecosystem. Explain. 15 2010
41. Hydrosere 20 2009
42. Kyoto Protocol and CDM 20 2009
43. Ecological pyramids 20 2009
44. Red Data Book and its relevance to plant diversity. 20 2007
45. Give an account of various ecological factors that influence plant community 30 2007
46. Describe and distinguish afforestation, deforestation and social forestry 30 2007
47. What is bioremediation? 20 2006
48. Discuss the strategies for conservation of endemic and endangered plants. 20 2006
49. Describe the causes and consequences of greenhouse effect 20 2006
50. Define succession. Explain different stages of succession with illustrations 30 2006
51. Enumerate the structure and functions of an ecosystem 30 2006
52. Afforestation 20 2005
53. Define biogeochemical cycles. Describe N-cycle 20 2005
54. What do you know about Social Forestry? 2005
55. How would you measure the level of Air-Pollution? 2005
56. Social forestry 20 2004
57. Pollution control 20 2004
58. What do you understand by conservation of biodiversity (20)? 2004
59. How is biodiversity conserved (40)? 2004
60. Global warming 20 2003
61. Conservation of biodiversity 20 2003
62. What do you understand by eco-system? 10 2003
63. How would you maintain an eco-system? 50 2003