Zoology optional in UPSC: 5 tips & book list

If you’re an aspirant for the Civil Services Exam, you’ll need to decide on an optional subject. Zoology optional is one of the popular subjects available for the UPSC mains exam. In this blog post, we will discuss what Zoology optional is. Also, the syllabus for Zoology optional in UPSC, and how to prepare for it.  So, read along to know about zoology as an optional subject and get a book list.

 

What is Zoology Optional?

Zoology is the scientific study of animals, their behaviour, physiology, and evolution. It is a fascinating subject that provides insights into the world around us. Zoology is also an interdisciplinary field that combines biology, anatomy, genetics, and ecology.

 

Zoology Optional Syllabus for UPSC

The Zoology optional syllabus for UPSC is divided into two papers. The Paper I covers animal diversity, embryology, physiology, and biochemistry. Zoology Paper II covers genetics, evolution, ecology, behaviour, and wildlife conservation.

 

Paper I:

• Non-chordate and chordate diversity
• Ecology and Zoogeography
• Evolution
• Genetics
• Physiology
• Biochemistry
• Developmental Biology
• Immunology

 

Paper II:

• Animal Behavior
• Wildlife conservation
• Biotechnology
• Economic Zoology
• Applied Zoology

 

How to prepare for Zoology Optional in UPSC?

Preparing for the Zoology optional requires an in-depth understanding of the subject matter. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Understand the syllabus thoroughly: Go through the syllabus in detail and identify the topics you need to focus on.
• Choose the right study material: Select the study material that is relevant to the syllabus and is easy to understand.
• Develop a study plan: Prepare a study plan that covers all the topics. Also, allocate sufficient time for each.
• Practice answer writing: Writing practice answers will help you to improve your writing skills and to identify the gaps in your knowledge.
• Stay updated with current affairs: Keep yourself updated with the latest developments in the field of Zoology. Also, everything related to wildlife conservation.

 

Is Zoology a good Optional for UPSC?

Zoology is an excellent optional subject for UPSC, especially for those who have a background in Biology. Also, it is a scoring subject, and the questions are mostly straightforward. Additionally, the subject is also interesting, and you can gain a lot of knowledge from it.

 

Books for Zoology Optional syllabus for UPSC

• Modern Zoology by Ramesh Gupta: This book covers animal diversity, anatomy, physiology, and genetics. It is an excellent resource for building a strong foundation in Zoology.
• Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry – David Nelson, Michael Cox: This book provides a comprehensive understanding of biochemistry. Also, covers the biochemical processes that occur in living organisms.
• An Introduction to Embryology by AK Berry: This book covers the process of embryonic development. Additionally, it covers the formation of different organ systems in animals.
• Ecology And Environment by PD Sharma: This book covers the fundamental principles of ecology and the interaction between organisms and their environment.
• Applied And Economic Zoology by VB Upadhyay and GS Shukla: This book covers the various aspects of applied Zoology. Also, it includes animal breeding, fisheries, and wildlife management.
• Animal Behaviour by Reena Mathur: This book covers the various types of animal behaviour. Additionally, it includes social behaviour, communication, and mating behaviour.
• Modern Textbook Of Zoology: Vertebrates by RL Kotpal: This book covers the classification, anatomy, and physiology of vertebrates.

These books provide comprehensive coverage of the Zoology syllabus for UPSC. Therefore, candidates should choose the books that suit their requirements. Also, go through them thoroughly to gain a complete understanding of the subject matter.

 

Conclusion

Zoology is an exciting optional subject for UPSC. Therefore, if you have an interest in animals and biology, it can be a great choice. Also, make sure to go through the syllabus thoroughly. Thereby, choose the right study material, and practice writing answers. Consequently, by following these tips, you can prepare well for Zoology. Thus score good marks in the UPSC mains exam.