Read the passage carefully and choose the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives.

Genetic variation is the cornerstone of evolution, without which there can be no natural selection, and so a low genetic diversity decreases the ability of a species to survive and reproduce, explains lead author Yoshan Moodley, Professor at the Department of Zoology, University of Venda in South Africa.

Two centuries ago, the black rhinoceros – which roamed much of sub Saharan Africa – had 64 different genetic lineages; but today only 20 of these lineages remain, says the paper. The species is now restricted to five countries, South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, Zimbabwe and Tanzania. Genetically unique populations that once existed in Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, Mozambique, Malawi and Angola have disappeared. The origins of the 'genetic erosion' coincided with colonial rule in Africa and the popularity of big game hunting. From the second half of the 20th century, however, poaching for horns has dramatically depleted their population and genetic diversity, especially in Kenya and Tanzania.

What is important for evolution?

The question below consists of a set of labelled sentences. Out of the four options given, select the most logical order of the sentences to form a coherent paragraph.

This idea, however startling it may at

X-first appear, is quite in accordance, as
Y-before stated, with the analogy of changes
Z-now going on in certain regions of the globe

The question below consists of a set of labelled sentences. Out of the four options given, select the most logical order of the sentences to form a coherent paragraph.

There was no need to

X-set a watch, for we had nothing
Y-to fear from anybody or
Z-anything in that vast untenanted plain

In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best substitute of the words/sentence.

An arrangement of flowers fastened in a ring used for laying on a grave

In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best substitute of the words/sentence.

Free from disturbance

In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase.

To make a fuss about

In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase.

To go off the air

In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the word opposite in meaning to the word given.

Benediction