Which is the National Reptile of India?

Appeared in: NORCET 5 Prelims - Sept 2023 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is officially designated as the National Reptile of India.
It is the world's longest venomous snake and holds significant cultural and ecological importance in the region.
This recognition highlights its role in India's rich biodiversity and heritage.

Option B: Lizard is a general classification for a large group of squamate reptiles, not a specific animal chosen as a national symbol.
Option C: Ground snake is a common name for many different species of snakes and is not a specific, officially recognized national symbol.
Option D: Although pythons are large and impressive snakes found in India, they have not been designated as the national reptile.

Visual 1: Image - A clear picture of a King Cobra, showing its characteristic hood and large size, to help with visual identification.
Visual 2: Infographic - A chart showing the key venomous snakes of India (e.g., the 'Big Four' and King Cobra) with their venom type (neurotoxic vs. hemotoxic) and key symptoms of envenomation.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain National Symbols of India as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Snakebite is a major public health issue in India. Nurses must be able to recognize signs of envenomation and initiate appropriate first aid and supportive care.
Knowledge of local fauna, such as the King Cobra, helps in anticipating the type of venom (neurotoxic) and the specific clinical manifestations, like respiratory paralysis, requiring urgent intervention.
What if the patient was bitten by a Russell's Viper instead? The nurse would anticipate different symptoms, primarily hemotoxic and vasculotoxic effects like bleeding, swelling, and potential kidney injury, and would ensure coagulation parameters are monitored closely.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the question as a factual recall question from the domain of general knowledge.
Read the question carefully to understand what is being asked: the 'National Reptile of India'.
Evaluate each option. King Cobra is a well-known national symbol.
Eliminate the other options. 'Lizard' and 'Ground snake' are general categories, not specific animals. 'Python' is a specific snake but not the national reptile.
Confirm the most plausible answer based on general knowledge.
Consider the clinical context for a nursing exam: connect the topic (a venomous snake) to a relevant medical issue (snakebite management).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full NORCET 5 Prelims - Sept 2023 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.