Why in the News?
Researchers have identified a new-to-science bat species, the Himalayan long-tailed myotis (Myotis himalaicus), from the Western Himalayas.
About Himalayan Long-Tailed Myotis:
- New Species: It is a newly described bat species from the Western Himalayas.
- Discovery: It was first recorded in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, in 2021 and matched with an earlier specimen collected in Pakistan in 1998.
- Class: It belongs to the Myotis frater complex, which includes bats found across East and Central Asia.
Key Features:
- Habitat: Found in high-altitude forests such as deodar, pine, and cedar.
- Distribution: Likely found across India, Pakistan, and Nepal.
- Tail: Notably features a long tail, setting it apart within the Myotis genus.
- Rarity: Considered uncommon, with limited sightings.
- Identification: Confirmed through morphological traits and genetic analysis.
- Scientific Significance: Enhances understanding of bat diversity in the Himalayas and supports transboundary biodiversity research.
| [UPSC 2009] In the context of Indian wildlife, the flying fox is a:
Options: (a) Bat* (b) Kite (c) Stork (d) Vulture |
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Why in the News?
The Tamil Nadu government has officially notified a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi in Ramanathapuram district.
What is a Bird Sanctuary?
- India’s bird sanctuaries are established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (WLPA).
- Section 18 of the WLPA empowers State governments to declare wildlife or bird sanctuaries based on ecological or zoological importance.
- The law prohibits hunting of protected birds and prescribes penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment.
|
About Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus):
- Overview: It is the largest and most widespread flamingo species, found across Africa, southern Europe, and South and Southeast Asia, including India and Pakistan.
- Presence in India: India hosts both Greater and Lesser Flamingos. Greater Flamingo is the state bird of Gujarat.
- Behaviour and Diet: These birds form monogamous pairs and get their pink coloration from a diet rich in brine shrimp and algae. They are omnivores, feeding on invertebrates, small fish, algae, and decaying plant matter.
- Habitat: They prefer saltwater lagoons, mudflats, and saline lakes, and are important indicators of wetland health.
- Migration Pattern: Every year, 100,000–150,000 flamingos migrate from Gujarat to Mumbai, typically arriving in November and settling in the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary.
- Migration Triggers: Their movement depends on food availability, water levels, and colony crowding.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern (LC) (species is widespread and abundant)
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule II (protected but with lesser penalties than Schedule I)
- CMS (Convention on Migratory Species): Appendix II (species need international cooperation for conservation)
- CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species): Appendix II (trade is regulated to avoid overexploitation)
About the Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi:
- Location: The sanctuary lies in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, spanning 524.7 hectares in Rameshwaram taluk.
- Habitat: It includes mangroves, sand dunes, mudflats, and marshes, supporting migratory birds, marine life, and sea turtles.
- Flyway Connection: The site falls along the Central Asian Flyway, a key route for wetland migratory birds.
- Bird Census: The 2023–24 wetland bird survey recorded over 10,700 birds, including herons, egrets, sandpipers, and both flamingo species.
- Ecological Importance: Mangrove species like Avicennia and Rhizophora dominate the area, offering breeding grounds and coastal protection.
| [UPSC 2015] With reference to an organization known as ‘BirdLife International’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
(1) It is a Global Partnership of Conservation Organizations. (2) The concept of ‘biodiversity hotspots’ originated from this organization. (3) It identifies the sites known/referred to as ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only * (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
A new plant species named Pedicularis rajeshiana has been discovered in the western Himalayas of India.
About Pedicularis rajeshiana:
- Discovery: It is a newly discovered plant species found at Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh, at an altitude of 4,390 metres.
- Research Publication: The discovery was made by a scientist from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI), Dehradun, and published in the journal Phytotaxa.
- Plant Family: It belongs to the Orobanchaceae family and is part of the Lousewort group of plants.
- Plant Type: It is a hemiparasitic plant, meaning it draws some nutrients from nearby plants but also performs photosynthesis.
- Habitat: Grows on shaded, rocky mountain slopes, making it rare and possibly endangered due to its specific environment.
- Diversity: With this addition, India now has 83 Pedicularis species, including 36 in the western Himalayas.
Key Features of the Plant:
- Unique Floral Structure:
- Flowers have a deeply cut lower lip and stamens at three different levels — a very rare combination.
- Some flowers show a twin galea (double hood), never observed before in this genus, possibly an evolutionary trait to enhance pollination.
- Microscopic Details: Pollen grains have a croton-like texture and a distinct shape, confirmed through microscope studies.
- Distinctiveness: Compared to related species like P. porrecta and P. heydei, this plant is smaller, with fewer flowers and leaflets.
| [UPSC 2018] Why is a plant called Prosopis juliflora often mentioned in news?
Options: (a) Its extract is widely used in cosmetics. (b) It tends to reduce the biodiversity in the area in which it grows. * (c) Its extract is used in the synthesis of pesticides. (d) (None of the above. |
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Why in the News?
May 28 is celebrated every year as World Dugong Day.
About Dugongs:
- Species Info: Dugong dugon, also known as sea cows, are herbivorous marine mammals closely related to manatees but live only in saltwater.
- Habitat: They live in shallow coastal waters and are mainly found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, and Gulf of Kutch.
- Diet and Role: Dugongs feed on seagrass species like Cymodocea, Halophila, Thalassia, and Halodule. As they graze, they stir up the seabed, earning the nickname “farmers of the sea.”
- Lifespan and Behaviour: They can live up to 70 years and are usually solitary or seen in mother-calf pairs.
- Reproduction: Females mature at 9–10 years and give birth every 3–5 years, resulting in a slow population growth of about 5% per year.
- Conservation Concern: India’s dugong population has dropped to an estimated 200 individuals, with shrinking range and numbers.
Conservation Efforts in India:
- IUCN Status: Dugongs are listed as ‘Vulnerable’ globally and ‘Regionally Endangered’ in India.
- Legal Protection: They are protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Global Agreements: India joined the Convention on Migratory Species in 1983 and signed the Dugong Conservation MoU in 2008.
- Dugong Reserve: In 2022, India established its first Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu, covering 448.3 sq. km.
| [UPSC 2015] With reference to ‘dugong’ a mammal found in India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is a herbivorous marine animal. 2. It is found along the entire coast of India. 3. It is given legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972.
Options: (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 * (d) 3 only |
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Why in the News?
A new species of fish, named Schistura densiclava, has been discovered inside a limestone cave in Meghalaya, even as the cave was already in focus due to a conflict over a Shivalinga-like stone formation.
About Schistura Densiclava:
- Discovery Location: Schistura densiclava was discovered in Krem Mawjymbuin, a limestone cave in East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya.
- Research Team: The species was identified by a team led by Kangkan Sarma of Gauhati University’s Zoology Department.
- Type: It is a troglophile loach, meaning it lives in caves but can also survive in surface streams.
- Habitat Conditions: Found in a fast-flowing cave stream, 60 meters inside, with low oxygen and 18°C temperature.
- Family: Belongs to the Nemacheilidae family, which includes small, bottom-dwelling freshwater fishes.
Key Features:
- Body Color and Markings: The fish has a pale yellow-green body with 14 to 20 greyish-black bars along its sides.
- Name Meaning: “Densiclava” is Latin for “thick stripe,” referring to a dark stripe near the dorsal fin.
- Adaptation Traits: Unlike many cave species, it retains pigmentation and functional eyesight, helping it survive both underground and in surface waters.
- Sexual Dimorphism:
- Males are slimmer, have irregular body patterns, and have puffier cheeks.
- Females are more robust with uniform markings.
- Genetic Confirmation: DNA testing confirmed that this is a completely new species.
- Endemism: The fish appears to be endemic to Krem Mawjymbuin, meaning it is found nowhere else.
| [UPSC 2025] Regarding Peacock tarantula (Goody 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?
Options: (a) I only (b) I and III (c) II only (d) II and III |
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Why in the News?
According to a recent report by the Gujarat Forest Department, the population of Asiatic lions in India has increased by 32% between 2020 and 2025, reaching 891 individuals.
About the Asiatic Lion:
- Scientific Identity: The Asiatic Lion, also known as the Persian or Indian Lion, is found only in India and is one of the 5 big cat species in the country.
- Physical Traits: They are slightly smaller than African lions and have a less developed mane.
- Habitat: Their only wild habitat is the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat.
- Range: Asiatic lions once roamed Western Asia, the Middle East, and parts of eastern and central India. Now, their entire wild population is restricted to Gujarat.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (most sources claimed it Endangered, but VU status is confirmed from IUCN official website).
- CITES: Appendix I (international commercial trade is prohibited; trade is permitted only in exceptional circumstances)
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest level of protection in India, violations attract the harshest penalties)
- Lion Census: First conducted in 1936, and since 1965, done every 5 years by the Gujarat Forest Department.
- Behavioural Aspects:
- Reproduction: Lions are polyoestrous with no fixed breeding season; females come into estrus every 16 days and remain fertile for 4–8 days.
- Territorial Marking: Lions roar and scent mark to declare territory; males often scrape the ground to carry their scent.
Population and Conservation Updates:
- Population Growth: From 2020 to 2025, the lion population rose 32% to 891.
- Female Increase: Adult females grew 27% to 330, indicating positive breeding trends.
- Habitat Expansion: Lions now inhabit nine satellite regions, including Mityala (32 lions) and a new corridor (22 lions).
- Range Growth: Lion territory expanded from 30,000 sq. km in 2020 to 35,000 sq. km in 2025 — a 16.67% increase.
- Project Lion (2020): A ₹2,900 crore mission to enhance habitats and create new protected areas within Gujarat.
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: With more lions outside reserves, there’s a rise in livestock attacks, with a 10% annual increase in affected villages and a 15% rise in animals killed.
- Community Support: Despite risks, 61% of surveyed locals showed tolerance towards lions, underlining the need for community-based conservation.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:
1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.
2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.
3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only* (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
Specialists from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) have successfully assembled the first-ever chromosome-level genome of the Indian yak (Bos grunniens).
About the Indian Yak (Bos grunniens):
- The Indian yak, often referred to as the ‘ship of the Himalayas’, plays a crucial role in the high-altitude economies of India.
- Features: It is known for its resilience and adaptability to extreme environments. It provides meat, milk, and manure and is a vital mode of transportation.
- Habitat: It inhabits the regions above 7,000 feet in Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh.
- Conservation Status: It is assessed as Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List and included in CITES Appendix I and Schedule I in the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Significance of the Research:
- Mapping Method: The study used long-read sequencing and advanced bioinformatics to map yak genes with high precision.
- Feature Identification: The genome will help identify genes for cold tolerance, disease resistance, and milk production.
- Comparative Applications: It will allow comparative studies with other bovine species to discover valuable genetic traits (alleles).
- Breeding and Conservation: The data will support better breeding strategies and the creation of conservation plans for yaks.
- Livelihood Impact: This research supports sustainable development and could improve the livelihoods of Himalayan yak herders through targeted livestock improvements.
| [UPSC 2017] According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals cannot be hunted by any person except under some provisions provided by law?
1. Gharial 2. Indian wild ass 3. Wild buffalo
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3* |
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Why in the News?
Indian Grey Wolves in the Kadbanwadi Grasslands in Pune District are exposed to threats from local dog populations, such as Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), rabies, and canine parvovirus.
About the Indian Grey Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes):
- The Indian Grey Wolf is a subspecies of the Grey Wolf, found in India, Southwest Asia, and parts of the Middle East.
- It has a brownish-grey coat with black and white markings and is less vocal, living in small packs of 2 to 6 members.
- This wolf is nocturnal, meaning it hunts mainly at night, preying on small animals like chinkaras (gazelles), rodents, and sometimes livestock.
- It lives in scrublands, grasslands, and semi-arid regions, and prefers warm climates.
- As an apex predator of the grasslands, it plays a vital role in the ecosystem by controlling the population of herbivores and smaller predators.
- The species is under threat due to habitat loss, disease from stray dogs, crossbreeding, and human conflict.
- Its conservation status is critical:
- IUCN: Endangered
- CITES: Appendix I (highest international protection)
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (maximum legal protection)
Do you know?
- The only protected area specifically dedicated to Indian grey wolves in India is the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary in Latehar district, Jharkhand.
- This sanctuary was established in 1976 to protect the wolf population and is part of the Palamau Tiger Reserve.
|
| [UPSC 2002] Which one of the following is monogamous?
Options: (a) Wolf* (b) Walrus (c) Seal (d) Deer* (Answer is disputed) |
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Why in the News?
A species of wild banana, Musa indandamanensis, endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has set a world record with an infructescence (fruit bunch axis) measuring 4.2 metres — the longest ever recorded among banana species globally.
About the Musa indandamanensis:
- Musa indandamanensis is a wild banana species that is endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- It was first discovered in 2012 near the Krishna Nala reserve forest in Little Andaman and officially described in 2014.
- The species was later rediscovered in Campbell Bay, located in the Nicobar Islands.
- The discovery was led by Dr. Lal Ji Singh, Head of the Botanical Survey of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre.
- Due to its limited natural range and habitat vulnerability, it is listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN.
Notable Features:
- The species holds the world record for the longest banana infructescence, measuring 4.2 metres.
- The plant typically reaches a height of about 11 metres, with stem girth varying by location: under 100 cm in Little Andaman and around 110 cm in Campbell Bay.
- It bears golden yellow to orange fruits, which ripen into a golden-orange pulp containing many irregular-shaped seeds.
- The plant thrives in moist tropical forests, typically near waterfalls and streams.
- It is considered a valuable genetic resource for developing drought-resistant, disease-tolerant, and high-yielding banana varieties.
- Specimens are showcased in botanical institutions such as the Indian Museum in Kolkata and the Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre.
- For ex-situ conservation, saplings have been planted in botanical gardens in Howrah, Prayagraj, and Port Blair.
| [UPSC 2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?
Options: (a) Andaman Islands* (b) Anaimalai Forests (c) Maikala Hills (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast |
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Why in the News?
The red-crowned roofed turtle has returned to the Ganga River after nearly 30 years of absence.
About Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle
- The Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle (Batagur kachuga) is one of the most endangered freshwater turtle species in the world.
- It is native to South Asia, particularly India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
- Historically found in deep, flowing rivers with sandbar nesting sites, it now survives only in the Chambal River, with fewer than 300 individuals remaining.
- This species plays a crucial role in maintaining river ecosystem balance by controlling aquatic vegetation and contributing to nutrient cycling.
- Under the Namami Gange Mission and Turtle Survival Alliance India (TSAFI) project, 20 turtles (10 males, 10 females) were released into the Ganga River at Haiderpur Wetland and Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary.
- The IUCN Red List categorizes it as Critically Endangered, while India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 lists it in Schedule I, offering the highest legal protection.
- It is also listed under Appendix I of CITES, regulating international trade of the species.
| [UPSC 2017] In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply?
Options: (a) It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger*. (b) It no longer exists in the wild, a few individuals are under captive protection; and how it is impossible to prevent its extinction. (c) It is endemic to a particular region of India. (d) Both (b) and (c) stated above are correct in this context. |
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Why in the News?
A recent report by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), highlights the absence of any breeding programme for musk deer.
About Musk Deer:
- The Himalayan Musk Deer (Moschus leucogaster) is an endangered species native to the Himalayas, found in India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, and China.
- It inhabits altitudes of 2,200 to 4,300 meters, primarily in alpine forests and scrublands.
- Behaviour: Solitary, nocturnal, and territorial. Males have long, curved canine teeth and a musk gland, which is highly valued and targeted by poachers.
- It plays a key role in seed dispersal, helping maintain the balance of the alpine ecosystem.
- Threats: Poaching for their musk glands, habitat loss from deforestation, and genetic issues due to fragmented populations.
Conservation Initiatives:
- Protection Status:
- It is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
- It is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, offering the highest protection under Indian law.
- Protected Areas:
- Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: Established in 1972, covering 975 km² in the western Himalayas, crucial for musk deer conservation.
- Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary: Located in Uttarakhand, dedicated specifically to musk deer conservation.
- Himalayan Musk Project (1982): Aimed at captive breeding within Kedarnath Sanctuary but faced setbacks due to disease, snake bites, and poor survival rates. The project was shut down in 2006.
| [UPSC 2020] Which of the following are the most likely places to find the musk deer in its natural habitat?
1. Askot Wildlife Sanctuary
2. Gangotri National Park
3. Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary
4. Manas National Park
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1 and 4 only |
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Why in the News?
Colossal Biosciences, a biotech firm based in US, has successfully bred the extinct Dire Wolf pups using gene-editing technologies.
About Dire Wolf (Aenocyon dirus)
- The dire wolf lived during the Pleistocene Epoch, approximately 6 million to 11,700 years ago, and went extinct around 13,000 years ago.
- Physical Characteristics and Behaviour:
- It was larger than the modern gray wolf, standing about 5 feet tall at the shoulder and weighing up to 150 pounds, significantly heavier than the average gray wolf.
- It had a stockier body, a robust skull, and powerful jaws, adapted for hunting and consuming large prey. It likely had light or white fur, unlike the gray, black, or white coats of modern wolves.
- As an apex predator, the dire wolf primarily preyed on large mammals like bison and horses.
- While it did not hunt in packs as effectively due to its size, it was capable of cooperative hunting when needed.
- Extinction:
- The species went extinct likely due to a combination of prey depletion, climate change, and the impact of human activities.
- Fossils have been found across a wide geographical range, from the La Brea Tar Pits in California to the Mississippi River Valley.
- Genomic Comparison:
- The gene-edited pups share 99.5% DNA of gray wolves but differ in the remaining 0.5%, which accounts for the dire wolf traits.
- These pups are not exact clones of the dire wolf but are considered “dire wolves” based on their physical resemblance.
Technologies Used for Resurrection:
- Ancient DNA Extraction & Analysis: DNA from 13,000 to 72,000-year-old fossils was sequenced to identify key genetic traits.
- Gene Editing (CRISPR): Scientists used CRISPR to edit gray wolf DNA, introducing features like size, fur color, and muscular traits to resemble the dire wolf.
- Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT): Edited somatic cells from gray wolves were used to create embryos implanted in dog surrogates. Genetically modified pups were born after 62 days.
- Embryo Implantation: The gene-edited embryos developed into the first de-extinct dire wolf pups.
| [UPSC 2018] The term “”sixth mass extinction/sixth extinction”” is often mentioned in the news in the context of the discussion of:
(a) Widespread monoculture practices in agriculture and large-scale commercial farming with indiscriminate use of chemicals in many parts of the world that may result in the loss of good native ecosystems.
(b) Fears of a possible collision of a meteorite with the Earth in the near future in the manner it happened 65 million years ago that caused the mass extinction of many species including those of dinosaurs.
(c) Large scale cultivation of genetically modified crops in many parts of the world and promoting their cultivation in other parts of the world which may cause the disappearance of good native crop plants and the loss of food biodiversity.
(d) Mankind’s over-exploitation/misuse of natural resources, fragmentation/loss of natural habitats, destruction of ecosystems, pollution and global climate change. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Woolly Flying Squirrel (Eupetaurus cinereus)
Why in the News?
The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department’s wildlife wing has captured the first photographic evidence of the elusive Woolly Flying Squirrel in the Miyar Valley, Lahaul and Spiti district.
About the Woolly Flying Squirrel:
- The Woolly Flying Squirrel, scientifically known as Eupetaurus cinereus, is one of the rarest and least known mammals in Asia.
- It is endemic to the northwestern Himalayas, primarily found in northern Pakistan and northwestern India.
- It prefers to live in dry conifer woodlands within a fragmented habitat in a thin elevational band.
- This species was long believed to be extinct until it was rediscovered in 1994, nearly seventy years after its last recorded sighting.
- It is unique due to its ability to glide, much like other flying squirrels, as it has elastic membranes that connect its fore and hind legs.
Physical features:
- Its body is covered with dense, straight, silky hairs, with the dorsal pelage appearing blue-gray, while the underside is pale gray.
- The squirrel also has creamy white hairs on its throat and ears, and dense black fur on the soles of its feet, with pinkish brown toe pads that are naked.
Conservation Status:
- Listed as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List.
- NOT explicitly mentioned under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Significance of the Rediscovery:
- Its confirmed existence adds to the state’s mammal checklist, offering hope for its continued survival in this remote part of the Himalayas.
- This discovery is important from a scientific perspective, as it marks the first time the elusive species has been documented in India since its rediscovery in 1994.
| [UPSC 2012] Consider the following:
1. Black-necked crane 2. Cheetah 3. Flying squirrel 4. Snow leopard
Which of the above are naturally found in India?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fungi
Why in the News?
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List now includes 1,300 fungi species, of which 1000 species are at risk of extinction due to various environmental pressures.
Important Species under Threat:
- Fibrous Waxcap (Hygrocybe intermedia): A Vulnerable species of fungi found in Europe, facing threats from habitat loss and land-use changes.
- 279 Species at Risk: Threatened by deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urban development, leading to habitat loss.
- 91 Species Threatened by Pollution: Nitrogen and ammonia runoff from fertilizers and industrial activities.
- 50+ Species at Risk Due to Fire Patterns: Changes in fire cycles, especially in USA, making certain fungi species vulnerable in forest ecosystems.
|
About Fungi:
- Fungi belong to the kingdom Fungi, distinct from animals, plants, and bacteria. They are eukaryotic organisms and include moulds, yeasts, mushrooms, and mildews.
- Key Properties:
- Fungi have chitin in their cell walls and form hyphae that create a mycelium network.
- They are heterotrophic, absorbing nutrients from organic material.
- They reproduce sexually and asexually through spores.
- Types of Fungi:
- Molds: Multicellular, fuzzy fungi.
- Yeasts: Unicellular fungi used in fermentation.
- Mushrooms: Fruiting bodies of certain fungi, often edible.
- Ecological Role: Fungi are crucial in decomposition and nutrient cycling. Some form beneficial relationships with plants (mycorrhizae) to aid in nutrient absorption.
- Uses:
- Medicines: Fungi like penicillin have revolutionized medicine.
- Food: Edible fungi include mushrooms and truffles.
- Beverages: Yeasts are key in bread, beer, and wine production.
| [UPSC 2021] Which of the following have species that can establish symbiotic relationship with other organisms?
1. Cnidarians
2. Fungi
3. Protozoa
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Marbled Cat
Why in the News?
The elusive marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata) has been spotted in Dehing Patkai National Park in Assam’s Tinsukia district.
About Marbled Cat
- The marbled cat is a small wild cat species native to South and Southeast Asia.
- It belongs to the Felidae family and is closely related to the clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) and the bay cat (Catopuma badia).
- The species was first described in 1836 by British zoologist William Charles Linnaeus Martin.
- It is characterised by brown, gray, or yellowish fur with distinctive black spots, marbled patterns, and stripes for camouflage.
- It is found in dense tropical and subtropical forests at elevations up to 2,500 meters.
- It primarily inhabits rainforests, evergreen forests, and mountainous terrain.
- It is arboreal, spending a significant amount of time in trees.
- It is nocturnal and crepuscular, meaning it is most active at dawn and dusk.
-
- IUCN Red List Status: Near Threatened (NT) due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
- CITES: Appendix I
About Dehing Patkai National Park
- Dehing Patkai NP is located in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam, India, near the border with Arunachal Pradesh.
- It spans an area of 231.65 km² and is part of the Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve. It was upgraded to a national park in 2020 and officially notified in 2021.
- The park features the largest stretch of lowland rainforests in India, including Dipterocarp trees, orchids, and medicinal plants like Rauvolfia serpentina and Acorus calamus.
- The park is home to diverse wildlife, including Bengal tigers, leopards, clouded leopards, Asian elephants, and Hoolock gibbons.
- It is unique for hosting seven species of wild cats.
- The Dehing River flows through the park, nourishing its forests and contributing to the biodiversity.
- Indigenous communities such as the Tai Phake, Khamti, and Singpho tribes have lived in the area for generations, maintaining a close relationship with the forest.
- The park is situated in the Patkai Hills region, part of the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot, known for its rich biodiversity.
- Known as the Amazon of the East, Dehing Patkai National Park is famous for its pristine rainforest ecosystems and significant biodiversity.
|
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following National Parks has a climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, temperate and arctic?
(a) Khangchendzonga National Park
(b) Nandadevi National Park
(c) Neora Valley National Park
(d) Namdapha National Park |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: River Dolphins in India
Why in the News?
India’s first-ever comprehensive river dolphin survey conducted under Project Dolphin (2020) has estimated a population of 6,327 dolphins, primarily across the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus River basins.
River Dolphins in India:
| Species |
Habitat |
Conservation Status |
Key Features & Threats |
| Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica)
|
Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna & Karnaphuli river systems (India, Bangladesh, Nepal) |
IUCN: Endangered
WPA, 1972: Schedule I |
Known as “Susu”, India’s National Aquatic Animal in 2009. Faces threats from pollution, habitat fragmentation, and accidental bycatch.
Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (Bihar) – Only dolphin sanctuary in India. |
| Indus River Dolphin (Platanista minor)
|
Indus River (Pakistan) & Beas River (India) |
IUCN: Endangered
WPA, 1972: Schedule I |
One of the rarest dolphins, facing population decline due to water diversion, dam construction, and habitat degradation.
Beas Conservation Reserve (Punjab) – Focused on Indus River Dolphin protection. |
| Irrawaddy Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris)
|
Chilika Lake (India) & rivers of South & Southeast Asia |
IUCN: Endangered
WPA, 1972: Schedule I |
Known for “spy-hopping” behavior (rising vertically to observe surroundings). Threatened by fishing nets and habitat destruction. |
Key Highlights of the Survey
- The survey estimated the Ganges River dolphin population at 6,324, with Uttar Pradesh (2,397) and Bihar (2,220) recording the highest numbers, while the Brahmaputra basin had 635 dolphins, indicating a stable population.
- The Indus River dolphin population was found to be critically low, with only 3 individuals recorded in the Beas River in Punjab, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.
- Key habitats were identified, with the highest dolphin concentrations observed in the Bhind-Pachnada stretch of the Chambal River and the Chausa-Manihari stretch of the Ganga.
- Dolphins were found to prefer deep water zones, confluences, mid-channel islands, and meandering sections of rivers, indicating specific habitat requirements.
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?
(a) Saltwater crocodile
(b) Olive ridley turtle
(c) Gangetic dolphin
(d) Gharial |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gharial
Why in the News?
Madhya Pradesh CM released 10 gharials into the Chambal River at the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary in Morena.
About Gharial
- The gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is a unique species of crocodilian, characterized by its long, slender snout, which is perfectly adapted for catching fish.
- The species derives its name from the “ghara”, a bulbous growth found on the snouts of adult males, which aids in vocalization and mating displays.
- It is a fish-eating crocodile native to the Indian subcontinent.
- They are a crucial indicator of clean river water.
Conservation Status:
- Recognizing the rapid decline in gharial populations, India launched captive breeding and release programs in the late 1970s.
- Between 1975 and 1982, the country established 16 captive breeding centers and 5 protected sanctuaries to ensure the survival of the species.
- Gharials are ‘Critically Endangered’ in the IUCN Red List of Species.
- The species is also listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Today, gharials primarily survive in 5 major refuges:
- National Chambal Sanctuary (NCS) – The largest stronghold of gharials.
- Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh.
- Chitwan National Park in Nepal.
- Son River Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh.
- Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary in Odisha.
PYQ:
[2013] Consider the following fauna of India:
1. Gharial
2. Leatherback turtle
3. Swamp deer
Which of the above is/are endangered?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Loggerhead Turtles
Why in the News?
A new study in Nature reveals that loggerhead turtles can learn and remember the magnetic signature of an area, using Earth’s geomagnetic field for navigation during long migrations.
About Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta)
- Loggerhead Sea Turtles belong to the Cheloniidae family, widely distributed across the world’s oceans.
- They are commonly found in Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Oceans, and the Mediterranean Sea.
- They Spends most of its life in saltwater and estuarine habitats, coming ashore only to nest.
- They are omnivorous, feeding primarily on bottom-dwelling invertebrates.
- It is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
- International trade banned under CITES Appendix I.
Significance of the study
- Loggerhead turtles travel thousands of kilometers across oceans and return to the same feeding and nesting sites.
- Their ability to store magnetic memories helps them navigate vast distances, reinforcing the hypothesis that other migratory species may also rely on Earth’s magnetic field.
PYQ:
[2019] Consider the following statements:
- Some species of turtles are herbivores.
- Some species of fish are herbivores.
- Some species of marine mammals are herbivores.
- Some species of snakes are viviparous.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mosquitofishes
Why in the News?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Central government regarding the use of two highly invasive and alien fish species—Gambusia affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia reticulata (Guppy)—as biological agents for mosquito control in multiple states.
Both species are classified as “invasive and alien” by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).
About Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)
- It has been widely introduced worldwide as a biological control agent to reduce mosquito populations.
- The mosquitofish primarily feeds on mosquito larvae, small insects, and zooplankton.
- Despite its intended benefits, Gambusia affinis has been identified as one of the world’s most invasive species.
- It is highly aggressive and competes with native fish for resources.
- It also preys on the eggs and juveniles of indigenous fish, amphibians, and invertebrates, leading to a decline in local biodiversity.
- The Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) has listed it among the 100 worst invasive species globally due to its harmful ecological impact.
About Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy, Millionfish, Rainbow Fish)
- Poecilia reticulata, commonly known as the Guppy, Millionfish, or Rainbow Fish, is a small freshwater fish native to Northern South America and the Caribbean.
- It is widely recognized for its vibrant colors and adaptability, making it a popular choice for both aquarium enthusiasts and mosquito control programs worldwide.
- It is a highly adaptable species, capable of surviving in a variety of freshwater environments.
- Guppies are omnivorous, feeding on mosquito larvae, small insects, algae, and organic detritus.
- Their feeding habits make them a common choice for mosquito control programs, although their effectiveness is still debated.
- While guppies are less aggressive than mosquitofish, their population growth can still disrupt local ecosystems.
PYQ:
[2023] ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?
(a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
(b) Converting crop residues into packing material
(c) Producing biodegradable plastics
(d) Producing biochar from thermo-chemical conversion of biomass |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian Bison (Gaur)
Why in the News?
The Jharkhand Forest department has initiated a study to revive the dwindling population of Bison, popularly known as Gaur, at Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR).
About Indian Bison (Gaur)
| Details |
- Largest and tallest species in the wild cattle family.
- Scientific Name: Bos gaurus.
- Indigenous to South and Southeast Asia.
|
| Species Habitat and Location |
- Found in evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests with open grasslands.
- Prefers hilly terrains below 1,500–1,800 m with abundant water.
- Distributed across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand.
|
| Behavioural Features |
- Social animals living in herds of 30–40 individuals.
- Strong and sturdy limbs, short tails, and inward-curved pale green/yellowish-brown horns.
- Males weigh 600–1,500 kg; females weigh 400–1,000 kg.
- Convex-shaped forehead; height ranges from 170–230 cm.
|
| Conservation Status |
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.
- CITES: Appendix I.
|
PYQ:
[2011] A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Indian animal species. The animal has no predators in that area but its existence is threatened due to the destruction of its habitat. Which one of the following could be that animal?
(a) Indian wild buffalo
(b) Indian wild ass
(c) Indian wild boar
(d) Indian gazelle. |
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