Regarding Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements :

I. It is an omnivorous crustacean.
II. Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.
III. In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) I only
(b) I and III
(c) II only
(d) II and III

The correct answer is (d) II and III.

Explanation

Statement I: Incorrect. This statement is wrong on two counts. A tarantula is an arachnid (a spider), not a crustacean (like a crab or lobster). Furthermore, it is a carnivore that preys on insects and small animals, not an omnivore.
Statement II: Correct. This is true. The Gooty tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica) is critically endangered and has a very restricted natural habitat. It is endemic to a small, specific area of deciduous forest in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India.
Statement III: Correct. This species is arboreal, meaning it is adapted to living in trees. In its natural habitat, it is found in the holes and crevices of tall trees, where it builds its web and hunts.