Daily Current Affairs Quiz: April 19, 2024

Notes:
April 18 marks ‘World Heritage Day,’ honoring cultural sites globally. It’s also ‘International Day for Monuments and Sites,’ stressing heritage preservation. Recognized by UNESCO, it celebrates significant cultural and natural sites. In 2024, the theme is “Discover and Experience Diversity,” urging reflection on our global treasures. It emphasizes understanding diverse cultures, traditions, and ecosystems, fostering appreciation for our shared heritage.

Notes:
Tiranga Barfi of Varanasi linked with India’s independence, attained Geographical Indication (GI) status. Dhalua Murti Metal Casting Craft from Varanasi also received GI recognition. The GI Registry Office in Chennai listed 75 new products from Uttar Pradesh, including these. Varanasi now boasts 34 GI products, contributing to Uttar Pradesh’s total of 75. Other items like Bareilly Zardozi and Tharu Embroidery also gained GI registration, bringing the state’s total to 75, a record.

Notes:
In Kerala, the Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory of DRDO unveiled the Submersible Platform for Acoustic Characterisation and Evaluation (SPACE). It’s a testing hub for sonar systems on Indian Navy ships, subs, and helicopters. SPACE has two parts: a floating platform and a submersible one reaching 100m depth. It facilitates quick deployment and recovery of scientific gear, aiding survey, sampling, and data collection for Anti-Submarine Warfare research.

Notes:
Scientists recently discovered that Leaf Litter Frogs emit ultrasonic sounds as a defense against predators. These high-frequency screams, inaudible to humans, are a survival strategy for the most abundant frog species in forest communities. Found in Brazilian Atlantic rainforest, they inhabit leaf litter and low vegetation. Females are the largest at 64mm. Despite their unique adaptation, they are categorized as “Least Concern” by the IUCN. Ultrasonic waves exceed human hearing frequencies.

Notes:
Scientists recently found 160 marine species in the Salas y Gomez ridge, an oceanic ridge in the Southeastern Pacific. This region, isolated by the Atacama Trench and the Humboldt Current System, boasts high marine endemism. Most waters are beyond national jurisdiction, leaving 73% of the area unprotected. The discovery, including at least 50 new species, was made during an expedition to Rapa Nui (Easter Island), fueling consideration for high seas marine protection.