Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?

Correct Option

The Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica) was officially designated as the National Aquatic Animal of India on May 18, 2010, by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. This species, also known as the South Asian river dolphin, is endemic to the freshwater river systems of the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu basins, spanning India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Its presence serves as an indicator of a healthy riverine ecosystem, as it thrives only in clean and fresh water, thereby symbolizing the ecological integrity of the Ganges River.

Incorrect Options

• Saltwater crocodile: While a significant aquatic reptile found in India, it has not been accorded the status of the national aquatic animal.
• Olive ridley turtle: This marine turtle species is notable for its mass nesting events (arribada) along Indian coasts and is crucial for marine conservation, but it is not the national aquatic animal.
• Gharial: A critically endangered crocodilian species native to the river systems of the Indian subcontinent, it does not hold the designation of the national aquatic animal.