Answer:  Option B - It was reclassified as a new species, Ophiophagus kaalinga

Explanation:

• The king cobra species from the Western Ghats, previously classified as Ophiophagus hannah, was recently reclassified as a distinct species, Ophiophagus kaalinga, after extensive genetic research.
• This discovery, based on DNA mapping and analysis of over 200 specimens, confirmed it as a unique lineage among four recognized king cobra species.
• The formal announcement of the species name is set for November 22 in Bengaluru.

Answer:  Option A - Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Explanation:

• The Centre is exploring the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a potential tuna export hub due to its substantial untapped tuna resources.
• The region’s Exclusive Economic Zone is home to various tuna species, and the islands have the capacity to yield up to 64,500 tonnes annually.
• The government's focus aims to overcome challenges like infrastructure limitations and modern fishing technologies, boosting tuna exports to meet growing global demand in the $41.94 billion market.

Answer:  Option A - Travels at speeds greater than Mach 5

Explanation:

• A hypersonic missile is a weapon that travels at speeds exceeding Mach 5, which is five times the speed of sound.
• These missiles are highly maneuverable and can fly at low altitudes, making them harder to detect and intercept by traditional defense systems.
• Hypersonic technology is advancing rapidly, and such missiles pose significant strategic and defense challenges, particularly in terms of missile defense and speed, making them a key area of global military competition.

Answer:  Option B - Bumblebee

Explanation:

• Bumblebees are considered the most effective pollinators for crops in temperate regions, particularly in Europe and North America.
• They are highly efficient due to their ability to vibrate flowers, a technique known as "buzz pollination," which helps release pollen.
• While honeybees are also important, bumblebees outperform them in colder climates and with certain crops, such as tomatoes and blueberries, which require more vigorous pollination.

Answer:  Option D - Petra

Explanation:

• Petra is not located in Lebanon; it is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Jordan.
• Baalbek, Byblos, and Tyre are all ancient sites located in Lebanon and recognized for their historical and cultural significance.
• Petra is famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system, while the others represent key archaeological and architectural landmarks of Lebanon, dating back to ancient Phoenician and Roman civilizations.