Why in the News?
India’s Pygmy hog is rapidly declining due to loss and degradation of tall grassland habitats, even though it plays a critical role in maintaining grassland ecosystem health.
About Pygmy Hog
- Smallest and rarest wild pig species in the world
- One of the few mammals that builds its own nest with a roof
- Functions as an indicator species, reflecting grassland health
Habitat
- Prefers undisturbed tall grasslands with early succession riverine vegetation
- Habitat includes dense tall grasses mixed with herbs, shrubs and young trees
- Present distribution restricted to
- Manas National Park
- Orang National Park
Ecological Role
- Forages by digging soil using its snout
- Feeds on roots, tubers, fruits, termites, earthworms and eggs
- Improves soil aeration and fertility
- Aids seed dispersal, supporting grassland regeneration
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
- Listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
- Estimated wild population is very small, confined to Assam
| [2013] Consider the following:
1. Star tortoise 2. Monitor lizard 3. Pygmy hog 4. Spider monkey Which of the above are naturally found in India? (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
