Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Possible Uptick in Hangul Population in Kashmir

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Hangul (Kashmir Stag)

Mains level : NA

hangul

In the news

  • Kashmir’s Hangul, a shy and endangered species of deer, has exhibited a robust breeding season, suggesting a hopeful future for its population in the Dachigam National Park.
  • The Hanguls population could surpass 300 this spring, marking the first time in over 30 years.

About Hangul (Kashmir Stag)

Details
Scientific Name Cervus hanglu
Habitat Dense riverine forests in high valleys and mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, northern Himachal Pradesh
Geographic Range Endemic to Kashmir and surrounding areas
Distribution
  • Primarily found in Dachigam National Park;
  • Small population in Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary
Conservation Status
  • IUCN: Critically Endangered
  • CITES: Appendix I
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest level of protection)

Threats to Hanguls

  • Predator Concerns: Hangul faces threats from predators like leopards and Asiatic Black Bears, necessitating further research and monitoring.
  • Environmental Challenges: Drying drainages and snowless glacial areas in Dachigam raise concerns about habitat sustainability, highlighting the impact of climate change.

About Dachigam National Park

  • DNP boasts diverse flora and fauna, encompassing deep valleys, rocky outcrops, wooded slopes, and alpine pastures.
  • Spanning altitudes from 1600 m to 4200 m above sea level, the park is divided into upper and lower regions, each harboring unique ecosystems.
  • The park is home to a plethora of plant species, including wild cherry, pear, plum, walnut, oak, pine, and elm, fostering a biodiverse ecosystem.
  • Apart from hangul, the park supports a variety of wildlife, including musk deer, brown bears, leopards, Himalayan black bears, jungle cats, and species of wild goats like markhor and ibex.

Try this PYQ from CSP 2012:

Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?

(a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass

(b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard

(c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)

(d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal

Post your responses here.

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

Melanochlamys Droupadi: New Sea Slug specie named after President Murmu

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Melanochlamys Droupadi

Mains level : NA

 

President  Draupadi Murmu

In the news

  • The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) announced the discovery of a new marine species, Melanochlamys droupadi, named after the esteemed President of India, Droupadi Murmu.

About Melanochlamys Droupadi

  • Geographical Origin: Melanochlamys droupadi was first sighted off the shores of Digha in West Bengal and Udaipur in Odisha, marking its exclusive habitat.
  • Distinctive Features: Characterized by its short, blunt cylindrical body and smooth dorsal surface adorned with two unequal shields, this species showcases unique anatomical traits.
  • Morphological Identification: The species was meticulously examined for morphological, anatomical, and molecular characteristics, confirming its taxonomic classification within the Melanochlamys genus.
  • Physical Attributes: It is a small invertebrate reaching up to 7 mm in length, exhibits a brownish-black hue with a striking ruby red spot.
  • Biological nature: It is hermaphroditic (possessing both male and female reproductive organs, structures, and tissue) and predominantly inhabits intertidal zones along sandy beaches.

Habitat and Reproduction

  • Ecological Niche: The species is typically found in the intertidal zone, leaving distinctive crawl marks along sandy beaches.
  • Reproductive Cycle: Reproduction occurs primarily between November and January, marking a critical phase in the species’ life cycle.

Distribution and Taxonomy

  • Indo-Pacific Realm: While species of the Melanochlamys genus are predominantly found in temperate regions of the Indo-Pacific Ocean, Melanochlamys droupadi stands out as a truly tropical species.
  • Research Insights: A study conducted by ZSI researchers sheds light on the species’ behavior, highlighting its unique ability to secrete transparent mucus, forming a protective sheath against sand grains.

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

New Marine Species: Parhyale Odian from Chilika Lake

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Parhyale odian

Mains level : NA

Introduction

  • Researchers at Berhampur University in Odisha have made a remarkable discovery, unveiling a new species of marine amphipod from Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon on India’s east coast.

About Parhyale Odian

  • Parhyale odian is a newly discovered species of marine amphipod.
  • It belongs to the genus Parhyale and was found in Chilika Lake, Odisha, India.
  • The species was named after the native language of Odisha, Odia.
  • Its discovery raises the global species count within the genus Parhyale to 16.
  • It is approximately eight millimeters in length and brown in color.
  • Parhyale odian possesses 13 pairs of legs.
  • Its distinguishing feature is a stout robust seta on the surface of the propodus of the male gnathopod.

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Horseshoe Crab: Living Fossils of the Sea

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Horseshoe Crab and its conservation

Mains level : NA

Horseshoe Crab

Introduction

  • Environmental groups have petitioned the U.S. government to grant endangered species protection to the American horseshoe crab.
  • Horseshoe crabs, often called “living fossils,” have existed since before the age of dinosaurs.

About Horseshoe Crab

Description
Habitat Shallow coastal waters with soft sandy or muddy bottoms;

Spawns primarily on intertidal beaches during summer-spring high tides.

Taxonomic Division Chelicerata, a division of Arthropoda, comprising spiders, scorpions, harvestmen, mites, and ticks; characterized by segmented body and limbs, and a chitinous exoskeleton.
Status Referred to as a marine “living fossil” due to minimal evolutionary changes over time.
Geographic Range American horseshoe crab: Eastern coast of the USA and the Gulf of Mexico.

Indo-Pacific species (Tri-spine, Coastal, Mangrove): Mainly in coastal waters of India, Southeast Asia, China, and Japan.

Habitat in India Odisha serves as the largest habitat for horseshoe crabs in India.
Conservation Status Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
IUCN Status American horseshoe crab: Vulnerable.

Tri-spine horseshoe crab: Endangered.

Other two are not listed yet.

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

New Species of Burrowing Frog: Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu

Mains level : Read the attached story

Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu

Introduction

  • In a remarkable discovery, researchers have unveiled an entirely new frog species Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu, the rain-welcoming frog, thriving within the urban landscape of Bengaluru.

About Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu

  • A Fresh Discovery: Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu is not just a frog; it’s a newly identified frog species.
  • Name’s Significance: The name ‘Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu’ derives its meaning from its unique behavior of emerging from burrows with the onset of early showers, symbolizing its affinity for rain.
  • Distinctive Attributes: This recently unearthed amphibian boasts distinctive characteristics that differentiate it from known frog species.
  • Urban Adaptation: What sets Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu apart is its remarkable adaptation to urban surroundings. It showcases behaviors and physical attributes that equip it to overcome challenges posed by urbanization.
  • Scientific Confirmation: The research team employed advanced genetic analysis, in-depth morphological studies, and bio-acoustics to definitively establish the distinctiveness of this newfound amphibian.

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

India has 718 snow leopards; most of them live in unprotected areas: Centre

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India

Mains level : urgent need for increased legal protection and a dedicated conservation approach

Central Idea:

The report on the status of snow leopards in India, released by the Government of India and non-profit organizations, reveals that only 34% of the snow leopard habitat is legally protected. With snow leopards present in the country, the report emphasizes the need for a dedicated Snow Leopard Cell at the Wildlife Institute of India for long-term population monitoring and conservation efforts.

Key Highlights:

  • Snow Leopard Population: India is home to snow leopards, and their habitat covers square kilometers.
  • Legal Protection: Only a third of the snow leopard habitat in India is legally protected, posing a significant threat to the species.
  • Unprotected Areas: Nearly 70% of the crucial snow leopard habitat remains unprotected, highlighting the need for conservation measures.
  • Population Assessment: The four-year assessment conducted by SPAI using camera traps identified unique individuals.
  • Hotspots: Ladakh has the highest number of snow leopards, followed by Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

Key Challenges:

  • Limited Legal Protection: The majority of snow leopard habitat lacks legal safeguards, exposing them to potential threats.
  • Undefined Range: The absence of an extensive nationwide analysis has left the snow leopard range in India undefined.
  • Population Estimate: The need for a revised estimate arises, challenging the previous range of snow leopards in India.

Key Terms and Phrases:

  • Snow Leopard Cell: Proposed dedicated unit for long-term monitoring and conservation efforts.
  • SPAI: The Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India, coordinating the assessment.
  • Camera Traps: Utilized for capturing images of snow leopards at locations.
  • Vulnerable: Snow leopards are classified as ‘Vulnerable’ in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.

Key Quotes:

  • “The snow leopard range in India remained undefined due to lack of an extensive nationwide analysis.”
  • “Regular assessments will offer valuable insights for identifying challenges, addressing threats, and formulating effective conservation strategies.”

Key Statements:

  • The report emphasizes the necessity of a Snow Leopard Cell for effective conservation strategies.
  • Regular population assessments are crucial for understanding challenges and threats to snow leopards.

Key Examples and References:

  • The report cites Ladakh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh as hotspots for snow leopards.
  • SPAI, with partners like the Wildlife Institute of India, conducted the assessment using camera traps.

Key Facts and Data:

  • Snow leopard occupancy was recorded in square kilometers, with an estimated presence in square kilometers.

Critical Analysis:

The report underscores the urgent need for increased legal protection and a dedicated conservation approach, citing the inadequacy of the previous population estimate and the undefined snow leopard range. The increased coverage of the region compared to 2016 is noted, but challenges persist, requiring immediate attention.

Way Forward:

  • Establish Snow Leopard Cell: Create the proposed Snow Leopard Cell for consistent monitoring and organized studies.
  • Regular Assessments: Adopt a periodic population estimation approach every fourth year for continuous insights.
  • Legal Safeguards: Increase legal protection for the remaining unprotected snow leopard habitat.
  • Revised Population Estimate: Conduct a revised assessment to accurately determine the snow leopard population in India.
  • Public Awareness: Increase public awareness to garner support for snow leopard conservation efforts.

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Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

Punganur Cows: The Rare Dwarf Breed Making Waves

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Punganur Cows

Mains level : Not Much

Punganur Cows

Introduction

  • On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, Prime Minister made headlines by feeding Punganur cows at his residence in New Delhi.
  • His gesture not only symbolized a cultural tradition but also shed light on this unique cattle breed.

About Punganur Cows

  • Origin: Punganur cows hail from the Punganur municipality in Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor district.
  • Dwarf Stature: These cows are exceptionally small, measuring just 70-90 cm in height, with an average weight ranging from 115-200 kg.
  • Distinctive Features: They are known for their broad foreheads, short horns, and are ideal for small-scale dairy and organic farming.
  • Milk Yield: Punganur cows are recognized for their rich milk production, yielding 3 to 5 liters of milk daily.
  • Temple Use: Many temples in Andhra Pradesh, including the renowned Tirupati Thirumala Temple, use the milk of Punganur cows for Ksheeraabhishekam (milk offerings to deities).
  • Varied Costs: The cost of these cows ranges from Rs 1 lakh to 10 lakhs, depending on factors like purity and health.

Nutrition in Punganur Cow’s Milk

  • Presence of Gold: Notably, the milk from Punganur cows contains an element identified as ‘Au’, the chemical symbol for gold.
  • High-Fat Content: Punganur cow’s milk boasts a high-fat content of eight percent, in contrast to 3 to 4 percent in other indigenous breeds.
  • Nutrient-Rich: This milk is rich in Omega fatty acids, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, offering significant nutritional benefits.
  • Medicinal Value: The milk is believed to possess medicinal properties, contributing to overall health.

Resilience and Adaptability

  • Drought-Resistant: Punganur cows exhibit remarkable resilience, with the ability to thrive on dry fodder like grass, straw, and hay.
  • Docile Temperament: They have a calm and manageable temperament, making them easy to handle.
  • Disease Resistance: These cows are resistant to common diseases and parasites, adding to their appeal.

Breed Protection Measures

  • Threat of Extinction: At one point, Punganur cattle faced extinction due to a shift towards hybrid cattle for higher milk production.
  • Mission Punganur: In 2020, the Andhra Pradesh government initiated ‘Mission Punganur’ with an allocation of Rs 69.36 crore to boost the cattle population using IVF technology.
  • Enhancing Reproduction: The mission aimed to enhance reproductive efficiency, with plans to produce 8.5 offspring from each cow within five years.
  • PMO’s Involvement: The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is also part of the conservation efforts, rearing a group of Punganur cattle.

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Himalayan Wolf Listed as ‘Vulnerable’ on IUCN Red List

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Himalayan Wolf

Mains level : NA

Himalayan Wolf

Introduction

  • The Himalayan Wolf (Canis lupus chanco), a distinct lupine species inhabiting the Himalayas, has recently been classified as ‘Vulnerable’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)’s Red List.
  • This classification highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this unique predator.

About Himalayan Wolf

  • Taxonomic Status: Long a subject of taxonomic ambiguity, the Himalayan Wolf has been confirmed as a genetically unique lineage of wolves.
  • Population Estimate: The IUCN Red List estimates the population of mature individuals to be between 2,275 and 3,792, acknowledging the uncertainty of this figure.
  • Geographical Range: The Himalayan Wolf is found across the Himalayan range of Nepal and India and extends across the Tibetan Plateau.
  • Population in India: In the Indian Himalayas, the population is estimated to be between 227 and 378 mature individuals, primarily in Ladakh and the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, with potential small populations in Uttarakhand and Sikkim.

Conservation Challenges

  • Habitat Decline: The species faces a continuing decline in habitat quality and extent.
  • Conflict with Livestock: Livestock depredation conflicts are significant, exacerbated by habitat modification and depletion of wild prey.
  • Hybridization Threats: Increasing populations of feral dogs in regions like Ladakh and Spiti pose a threat of hybridization.
  • Illegal Hunting: The Himalayan Wolf is hunted illegally for its fur and body parts, contributing to its declining numbers.

Conservation Strategies Proposed

  • Habitat and Prey Restoration: Securing and restoring healthy wild prey populations and landscapes, and establishing wildlife habitat refuges.
  • Improved Livestock Management: Enhancing livestock guarding methods, including predator-proof corral pens, sustainable herding practices, and holistic management practices.
  • Feral Dog Population Management: Addressing the growing challenge of feral dogs that threaten the Himalayan Wolf through hybridization.
  • Trans-boundary Conservation Efforts: Collaborative efforts among range countries for research, monitoring, and conservation.
  • Herding/Pasture Management: Improving practices in regions where wolves are heavily dependent on livestock, such as in Ladakh.
  • Inclusion in Conservation Programs: Incorporating the Himalayan Wolf in conservation programs to promote public acceptance and reduce persecution.

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Kyrgyzstan declares Snow Leopard as National Symbol

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Snow Leopard

Mains level : NA

Snow Leopard

Central Idea

  • Kyrgyzstan, a Central Asian country, has declared the snow leopard as its national symbol.

About Snow Leopard

Details
Habitat Mountainous regions of Central and Southern Asia; in India: western and eastern Himalayas.
Indian Geographical Range Western Himalayas (J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand) and Eastern Himalayas (Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh).
Project Snow Leopard (2009) Aims to strengthen wildlife conservation in the Himalayan high altitudes, involving local communities.
Conservation Status IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

CITES: Appendix I

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (India): Schedule I

India’s Conservation Efforts Flagship species for high altitude Himalayas.

Part of GSLEP Programme since 2013.

Himalaya Sanrakshak community programme (2020).

National Protocol on Snow Leopard Population Assessment (2019)

SECURE Himalaya project (GEF-UNDP funded).

Listed in 21 critically endangered species for recovery by MoEF&CC.

Conservation breeding at Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.

GSLEP Programme Inter-governmental alliance of 12 snow leopard countries (India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Mongolia, Russia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan), focusing on ecosystem value awareness.
Living Himalaya Network Initiative WWF’s initiative across Bhutan, India (North-East), and Nepal for conservation impact in the Eastern Himalayas.

Significance of the Snow Leopard

  • The snow leopard symbolizes the health and stability of mountain ecosystems, which cover a significant portion of the global territory.
  • The snow leopard has been a totem animal in ancient Kyrgyz culture, associated with the legendary figure Manas.
  • The harmony between humans and nature, symbolized by the snow leopard, is portrayed in Chyngyz Aitmatov’s novel “When Mountains Fall.”

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Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

Self-pollination in Field Pansy Flower  

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Field Pansy Flower

Mains level : NA

Field Pansy Flower

Central Idea

  • Researchers have found that a flower species in Paris, the field pansy (Viola arvensis), is evolving rapidly, exhibiting reduced nectar production and smaller flower sizes.
  • This study aims to understand the impact of these evolutionary changes on plant-pollinator interactions.

Changing Nature of Field Pansy

  • Decreased Nectar and Size: The wild pansy variety in Paris showed a 20% reduction in nectar production and a 10% decrease in flower size.
  • Comparative Analysis: Scientists compared current flower growth with seeds from 20-30 years ago, observing notable changes.
  • Adaptation to Pollinator Decline: The evolution towards self-pollination in field pansies is attributed to the decreasing availability of insect pollinators.
  • Experimental Design: The study employed the “resurrection ecology” method, planting seeds from the 1990s and 2000s alongside their 2021 descendants.

Implications of Self-Pollination and Evolutionary Shifts

  • Contrast with Angiosperm Convention: The move towards self-pollination deviates from the typical reliance of angiosperms on insects for pollination.
  • Long-Term Coevolution: The traditional plant-insect relationship, involving nectar production for pollination, has evolved over 100 million years.
  • Genetic Analysis: Population genetics analysis revealed a 27% increase in selfing rates, with consistent trait shifts across studied populations.

Concerns and Potential Consequences

  • Short-Term Benefits, Long-Term Risks: While self-pollination may offer short-term advantages, it poses long-term survival threats to plants amid environmental changes.
  • Feedback Loop Risks: Reduced nectar production could lead to further declines in pollinator populations, creating a detrimental eco-evolutionary feedback loop.
  • Network Degradation: The study highlights the degradation of plant-pollinator networks, as observed in previous research.

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Rediscovery of Namdapha Flying Squirrel in Arunachal Pradesh

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Namdapha Flying Squirrel

Mains level : Not Much

 

Namdapha Flying Squirrel

Central Idea

  • The Namdapha flying squirrel, missing for 42 years, has been sighted again in Arunachal Pradesh.
  • This rare species was last documented in 1981 in the Namdapha Tiger Reserve.

Namdapha Flying Squirrel

Details
Species Name Namdapha Flying Squirrel (Biswamoyopterus biswasi)
Type Arboreal, nocturnal flying squirrel
Endemic Region Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India
Habitat Tall Mesua ferrea jungles, often on hill slopes in the catchment area of the Dihing River, northeastern India
First Discovery Known from a single specimen collected in Namdapha National Park in 1981
Physical Description – Reddish, grizzled fur with white above

– Pale grey crown, orangish patagium, white underparts

Genus Significance Was the sole member of its genus until the discovery of other species like Biswamoyopterus laoensis (2013) and Biswamoyopterus gaoligongensis (2018)
Conservation Status IUCN Status: Critically Endangered

Wildlife Protection Act Status: Schedule I

Threats Threatened by poaching and possibly habitat destruction

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

[pib] Indian Tent Turtles rescued in Lucknow

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Indian Tent Turtles

Mains level : NA

Indian Tent Turtles

Central Idea

  • The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Zonal Unit, Lucknow, acted on specific intelligence to intercept an illegal wildlife trade of 436 baby Indian Tent turtles.

About Indian Tent Turtles

Details
Scientific Classification Pangshura tentoria, Family: Geoemydidae
Diet Mainly herbivorous, active swimmer.
Habitat Prefers still water pools on river sides and slow running water near river banks.
Distribution Native to India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
Conservation Status – Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I

– IUCN Status: Least Concern

– CITES: Appendix II.

Major Threats Illegal trade in the pet market due to its attractive appearance.

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Specie in news: Saiga Antelope

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Saiga Antelope

Mains level : NA

Saiga Antelope

Central Idea

  • The Saiga Antelope has been reclassified from ‘Critically Endangered’ to ‘Near Threatened’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

About Saiga Antelope

Details
Scientific Name Saiga tatarica
Physical Characteristics Notable for its distinctive bulbous nose; relatively small, with a thin build and long, thin legs
Habitat Primarily found in the steppe region of Central Asia and Eastern Europe
Population Distribution Predominantly in Kazakhstan and Russia, with smaller populations in Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Mongolia
Conservation Status IUCN Red List: Near Threatened

CITES: Appendix II

Major Threats Poaching for horns (used in traditional medicine), habitat loss, and disease outbreaks like pasteurellosis
Diet Herbivorous, feeding on a variety of grasses and plants
Breeding Known for its rapid population growth under favorable conditions; breeds in large herds
Migration Notable for long-distance seasonal migrations
Cultural Significance Featured in the folklore and culture of the local steppe communities

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

Specie in news: Mauritian Dodo

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Mauritian Dodo

Mains level : NA

Mauritian Dodo

Central Idea

  • Mauritian authorities are now working to resurrect the human-caused extinct bird ‘Dodo’.

About Mauritian Dodo

Details
Scientific Name Raphus cucullatus
Physical Characteristics Large, flightless bird; about 1 meter tall, weighing 10-18 kg; large beak, stubby wings.
Habitat Endemic to Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean; lived in forests and possibly coastal areas.
Discovery and Extinction Discovered by Dutch Colonist in late 16th century; extinct by the late 17th century, last sighting around 1662.
Causes of Extinction Human hunting and introduced species like rats, pigs, and monkeys.
Diet Likely fruits, nuts, seeds, bulbs, and possibly small animals.
Behavior Exhibited no fear of humans due to lack of natural predators.
Cultural Impact Symbol of extinct and endangered species; featured in the phrase “as dead as a dodo.”
Representation Depicted in literature and art, notably in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.”

Science of De-Extinction

  • Genetic Blueprint: The first step in de-extinction is obtaining a complete and accurate genome of the species.
  • Genome Sequencing: Paleo-geneticists have successfully sequenced the dodo’s genome using DNA from a museum specimen.
  • Comparative Genomics: The dodo’s genome is being compared with that of its closest extinct and extant relatives to identify unique dodo traits.

Process of Resurrecting

  • Editing Genetic Material: The project involves editing the primordial germ cells (PGCs) of the Nicobar pigeon, the dodo’s closest living relative, to express dodo traits.
  • Interspecies Surrogacy: These edited PGCs will be inserted into chicken embryos, with chickens acting as interspecies surrogates to potentially birth a dodo offspring.
  • Physical Resemblance: The aim is to create a bird physically indistinguishable from historical accounts of the dodo.

Challenges and Concerns

  • Scientific Hurdles: Experts emphasize the complexity of recreating a species and the time required for selective breeding to achieve dodo-like characteristics.
  • Habitat Restoration: Mauritius’ transformed landscape poses challenges for reintroducing the dodo, necessitating the control or removal of invasive species.
  • Alternative Habitats: The project considers reintroducing dodos to more pristine, uninhabited islands like Round Island and Aigrettes.

Motivations behind the Project

  • Ecosystem Restoration: Reintroducing the dodo could help restore mutualistic relationships in Mauritius’ ecosystem, particularly in seed dispersal.
  • Conservation Technology: The techniques developed could aid in conserving and restoring other endangered avian species.
  • Symbolic Value: The project is driven by a desire to create ‘conservation optimism’, using the dodo as a symbol of hope in the face of human-caused extinctions.

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

Specie in news: Megamouth Shark

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Megamouth Shark

Mains level : Not Much

Megamouth Shark

Central Idea

  • In a historic moment for marine biology, a pregnant megamouth shark, a rare and elusive deepwater species, was discovered washed up on a beach in the Philippines.
  • This is only the 60th ever seen and the first ever observed to be pregnant.

About Megamouth Shark

Details

Scientific Name Megachasma pelagios
Discovery First discovered in 1976 off the coast of Hawaii.
Appearance Large mouth, bulbous head, rubbery lip, dark grey/black body with a white underbelly.
Size Up to 5.5 meters (18 feet) in length.
Diet Filter feeder, consuming plankton, jellyfish, and small fish.
Habitat Deepwater species, found at depths of 150 to 1,000 meters (490 to 3,280 feet).
Behavior Rarely seen, swims with mouth open to filter food.
Reproduction Presumed to be ovoviviparous, but details are largely unknown.
Distribution Wide but rare distribution in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
Conservation Status Least Concerned (IUCN)
Scientific Interest Valued for its unique anatomy and role in the deep-sea ecosystem.

 

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Species in news: Doubled-humped Camels

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Double-Humped Camels

Mains level : NA

camel

Central Idea

  • Indian Army has inducted double-humped camels for patrolling and logistical support along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh.

About Double-Humped Camels

  • The Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus), is also known as the Mongolian camel, domestic Bactrian camel or two-humped camel.
  • Their name comes from the ancient historical region of Bactria.
  • It is a large even-toed ungulate native to the steppes of Central Asia.
  • It has two humps on its back, in contrast to the single-humped dromedary.
  • The humps are plump and pliable. They store fat, which can be converted into water and energy when food and water resources are scarce during harsh winters.
  • A small population of Bactrian camel exists in the Nubra valley of Ladakh.

Significance of deployment

  • These camels serve to patrol the LAC and provide logistical aid to troops in the difficult, barren landscape of Eastern Ladakh.
  • They can carry 170 kg and patrol up to 15 km without rest, surpassing the load capacity of mules previously used by the army.
  • The Army’s 14 corps is deploying these camels in strategic areas like Depsang and Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) along the LAC.

Try this PYQ from the 2019 CS Prelims:

Q. Consider the following statements:

  1. Asiatic lion is naturally found in India only.
  2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.
  3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Post your answers here.

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

New species: Abelmoschus Odishae

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Wild Okra (Abelmoschus Odishae)

Mains level : NA

odisha

Central Idea

  • A scientist from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) recently discovered a new plant species of ‘wild okra’ named ‘Abelmoschus Odishae’.

Wild Okra (Abelmoschus Odishae)

  • Its discovery occurred in a humid deciduous forest within the Banspal block of Keonjhar district, in Odisha.
  • This plant holds potential for use in hybridization to develop improved varieties with enhanced disease resistance.
  • It could significantly contribute to broadening the genetic diversity of okra.
  • Characteristics:
    1. This perennial shrub reaches up to 5 meters in height and features a densely hispid, spiny stem with backward-facing hairs.
    2. The plant is adorned with large, vibrant yellow flowers.
    3. Its seeds are nearly kidney-shaped, with short, robust, non-spiral trichomes.
    4. The seeds exhibit a high viability rate of 95 percent.

About Okra

  • Commonly referred to as gumbo or ladies’ fingers, okra is a vegetable favored in warm climates.
  • Originating from the Eastern Hemisphere’s tropics, it is now extensively grown or found naturally in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Western Hemisphere.
  • Rich in minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, okra is a nutritious choice.
  • The vegetable is known for its mild flavor and distinctive texture, featuring a peach-like fuzz on its exterior and small, consumable seeds inside.

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Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

Specie in news: Lantana Camara

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Lantana Camara

Mains level : NA

Lantana Camara

Central Idea

  • In an exhibition in Bengaluru, sculptures of elephants made from Lantana camara gained popular attraction.

About Lantana Camara

  • Lantana camara, commonly known as lantana, belongs to the verbena family (Verbenaceae) and originates from the American tropics.
  • Lantana was introduced to India in the early 19th century as an ornamental plant during the British colonial period. Its colorful flowers made it popular in gardens.
  • This shrub has the ability to spread across forest floors, climb like a creeper over trees, and easily intertwine with native vegetation.
  • Lantana is highly adaptable, thriving in diverse ecosystems.

Impacts on Local ecosystem

  • Lantana’s invasive nature poses a serious threat to native flora and fauna. It competes with native plants for resources, often leading to a reduction in native biodiversity.
  • It forms dense thickets that alter the structure of habitats that impede the movement of animals and change the microhabitat conditions, such as light availability and soil composition.
  • It can invade agricultural land, reducing crop yields, and can also infest pastures, impacting grazing for livestock.
  • It is toxic to livestock and can cause health issues if ingested. This adds to the economic burden for farmers who need to ensure their animals do not graze on lantana-infested land.
  • The plant increases the risk of fire in the ecosystems it invades because it forms dense thickets that can easily catch and spread fire.

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

‘Music Frog’ Species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Music Frog

Mains level : NA

Music Frog

Central Idea

  • Scientists have identified a new species of ‘music frog’, named Nidirana noadihing, in Arunachal Pradesh, India.

Nidirana noadihing: The Music Frog

  • Location: It came from the place, Noa-Dihing River, from where the specimens were collected.
  • Size: The frogs grow up to 6 cm, with males measuring between 1.8 to 2.3 inches and females between 2.4 to 2.6 inches.
  • Appearance: They have a robust body, a rounded snout, smooth skin with bony protrusions on their backs, and a pale cream line bordered with dark brown running down their bodies.
  • Eye Features: The frogs have irregularly shaped spots on their eyelids, moderately large eyes with gold-rimmed pupils, and dark brown irises with a golden spackle.
  • Colouration: Their throat, forelimbs, thighs, and lower legs are light brown and pinkish, while their groin and the outside of their thighs are pale yellow with irregular dark olive patches.

Habitat and Behavior

  • Habitat: Nidirana noadihing inhabits swamps, ponds, and paddy fields, often constructing nests for egg-laying.
  • Vocalization: The species is distinguished by its unique call, which led to its discovery near the Noa-Dihing river.

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Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

Gujarat declares ‘Ghol’ as State Fish

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level : Ghol Fish

Mains level : NA

ghol

Central Idea

  • The Gujarat government’s decision to declare the ‘Ghol’ as the state fish highlights its uniqueness and economic value.

About Ghol Fish

  • The Ghol fish or the Blackspotted Croaker, is a significant species in marine fisheries.
  • It belongs to the family Sciaenidae and is scientifically known as Protonibea diacanthus.
  • It is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Persian Gulf to Indonesia and north to Japan.
  • The Ghol fish is characterized by its robust body, brownish color, and the presence of black spots on its sides.
  • It has a large mouth and a slightly protruding lower jaw.
  • This species can grow quite large, with some individuals reaching up to 1 meter in length and weighing around 25 kilograms.

Economic Value of Ghol

  • The Ghol fish is highly valued, especially for its fish maw (dried swim bladder), which is a delicacy and used in traditional medicines, particularly in East Asian markets.
  • The fish maw is believed to have various health benefits and is often used in soups and stews.
  • It can fetch high prices in the market, sometimes as much as Rs 25,000 per kilogram.

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