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Day 28

Mission Surya – Day 28: Species Behaviour – UPSC PYQ Analysis

Analysis of previous UPSC prelims questions related to species behaviour, migration, feeding habits and ecological interactions.

14 March 2026

Species behaviour has become a recurring theme in UPSC prelims. Studying previous year questions helps identify commonly tested ecological concepts and behavioural adaptations.

Core Concepts

Questions have been asked on waggle dance behaviour of honey bees.

UPSC asked about organisms rolling into defensive positions such as hedgehogs and pangolins.

Filter feeders such as oysters have appeared in prelims questions.

Detritivores include earthworms, millipedes and woodlice.

Symbiotic relationships are commonly tested concepts in ecology questions.

Exam Trend

At least one question from species behaviour appears almost every year.

In some years, multiple questions have been asked from this theme.

Quick Revision for Prelims

  • Questions have been asked on waggle dance behaviour of honey bees.
  • UPSC asked about organisms rolling into defensive positions such as hedgehogs and pangolins.
  • Filter feeders such as oysters have appeared in prelims questions.