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From which among the following pairs of species, a small quantity of fine quality wool is obtained in India ?
Explanation
In India, fine quality wool is primarily obtained from Pashmina goats and Angora rabbits. Pashmina wool, also known as cashmere, is sourced from specific goat breeds like the Changthangi (Pashmina) goat found in the high-altitude regions of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh [1]. This fiber is renowned for its extreme softness and thinness. Conversely, 'Angora' fiber is specifically produced by Angora rabbits [1]. While Angora goats exist, they produce a fiber known as 'mohair', which is distinct from the fine Angora wool produced by rabbits [1]. In the Indian context, the Gaddi or Chamba breeds are also noted for providing soft Pashmina wool [1]. Therefore, the pair consisting of Pashmina goats and Angora rabbits represents the correct sources for these specific high-quality fibers in India.
Sources
- [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 7: Resources > Goat Rearing > p. 36