Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Species in News: Swallowtail Butterfly

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Swallowtail Butterfly

Why in the News?

A recent study has found that the overexploitation of medicinal plants, is threatening the survival of swallowtail butterflies in the forest habitats of Assam’s Bodoland Territorial Region.

About Swallowtail Butterfly

Details
Family and Species Family: Papilionidae
Global species: 573
Indian species: 77
Characteristics
  • Large size, brightly colored wings, tail-like extensions on hindwings
  • Strong fliers, diurnal, territorial behavior, feed on nectar
Distribution Found in tropical and temperate regions of Asia, Africa, Americas
Habitat in India Found in rainforests, woodlands, cultivated lands, and protected areas like the Western Ghats and Northeast India
Host Plants Depend on specific plants like Rutaceae, Aristolochiaceae, Lauraceae, and Magnoliaceae families for larval development
Threats
  • Host plants, especially medicinal plants, are being overexploited in areas like the Bodoland Territorial Region
  • Deforestation, illegal cattle farming, agriculture, tree felling, and pesticide use

Swallowtail Conservation Action Plan (SCAP)

Purpose To protect and conserve endangered swallowtail species and prevent their extinction
Focus Area Focuses on habitat protection, host plant conservation, and population restoration
Swallowtail-Rich Zones Northeastern India designated as a key zone for swallowtail conservation under SCAP
Legal Protection 12 swallowtail species in India are under federal protection;
Some species are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act.
Community Role SCAP involves local communities in protecting host plants and preventing activities like illegal cattle grazing

 

PYQ:

[2016] Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?

(a) Arunachal Pradesh

(b) Himachal Pradesh

(c) Karnataka

(d) Maharashtra

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Tribes in News

[pib] PM-JANMAN Mission

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: PM-JANMAN Mission

Why in the News?

The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs is conducting an Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign under the PM-JANMAN Mission.

About Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha AbhiyaN (PM-JANMAN):

Details
Launched on November 15, 2023, on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas
Objective Improve socio-economic welfare of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) through 11 critical interventions across 9 ministries.
Vision Bridge gaps in health, education, and livelihoods; enhance infrastructure in PVTG communities aligned with existing schemes from nine ministries.
Total Outlay
  • Rs 24,104 crore over three years
  • Rs 15,000 crore allocated under the Development Action Plan for the Scheduled Tribes (DAPST) for the housing component over three years.
Implementation
  • Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes designed to enhance socio-economic conditions of PVTGs.
  • The Ministry of Tribal Affairs through the State Governments/ UT Administration/departments have undertaken habitation level data collection exercise through PM Gati Shakti mobile application to estimate PVTG population figures and infrastructure gaps under PM-JANMAN Mission.
Coverage Targets 75 PVTGs in 18 states and 1 Union Territory, focusing on health, education, and livelihoods.
Competitive Federalism Performance-based ranking of districts; top districts and Ministries recognized and rewarded for outstanding performance.

 

PYQ:

[2017] What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)?

[2019] Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India:

  1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.
  2. A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.
  3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.
  4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(d) 1, 3 and 4

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

Squalus hima: A new deep-water Dogfish Shark discovered in Kerala

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Squalus hima

Why in the News?

Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, Squalus hima, from the Sakthikulangara fishing harbour in Kerala along the Arabian Sea.

About Squalus hima

  • Squalus is a genus of dogfish sharks in the family Squalidae, commonly known as spurdogs, characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines.
  • The new species, Squalus hima sp. nov., has been misidentified with S. mitsukurii and S. lalannei in the past.
  • Squalus hima differs from other species by the number of precaudal vertebrae, total vertebrae, teeth count, trunk and head heights, fin structure, and fin colour.

Comparison with Other Species

  • On the Indian coast, two species of Squalus are found from the southwest coast of India.
  • The new species, Squalus hima n.sp., is very similar to Squalus lalannei but differs in many characteristics.
  • Species in the Squalus megalops group are characterized by an angular short snout, a small mouth almost as wide as the snout, the first dorsal fin origin behind the pectoral fins, and a body without any spots.

Economic and Conservation Implications

  • Sharks in the genus Squalus and Centrophorus are exploited for their liver oil, which contains high levels of squalene, used in high-end cosmetic and anti-cancer products.
  • Fishermen from southern India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands harvest these sharks for their liver oil, making conservation of these species critical.

Importance of the Discovery

  • The discovery of Squalus hima is significant for the conservation of shark species exploited for commercial purposes.
  • Dogfish sharks are commercially important for their fins, liver oil, and meat and are sometimes caught as by-catch in fisheries targeting other species.

PYQ:

[2019] Consider the following pairs:

Wildlife Naturally found in
1. Blue-finned Mahseer Cauvery River
2. Irrawaddy Dolphin Chambal River
3. Rusty-spotted Cat Eastern Ghats

Which of the pairs given correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Threats to Island Reptiles and Cacti Highlighted by IUCN

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Species mentioned; IUCN.

Why in the News?

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has issued an update on the threats faced by various reptile and cactus species due to invasive species and illegal trade.

Species highlighted by the IUCN

Species Status Change Reason for Decline Location Threats
Ibiza Wall Lizard

Near Threatened → Endangered 50% population decline since 2010 due to invasive snake Ibiza, Spain Invasive horseshoe whip snake (Haemorrhoids Hippocrepis)
Gran Canaria Giant Lizard

Least Concern → Endangered >50% decline since 2014 due to the introduction of California Kingsnake Gran Canaria, Spain California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis California)
Gran Canaria Skink

Least Concern → Endangered >50% decline since 2014 due to the introduction of California Kingsnake Gran Canaria, Spain California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis California)
Copiapoa Cacti

Critically Endangered 82% critically endangered, up from 55% in 2013 Atacama Desert, Chile Illegal trade for ornamental purposes, climate change impacts

 

Back2Basics: IUCN Overview Table

Details
Founded 1948
Headquarters Gland, Switzerland
Mission To conserve nature and ensure the sustainable and equitable use of natural resources.
Focus Areas
  • Initially conservation ecology
  • Now includes sustainable development issues
Influence
  • Influences governments, businesses, and stakeholders
  • Known for the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
IUCN Red List
  • Estimates the probability of species’ extinction for animals, fungi, and plants globally
  • Public and universally accessible
  • Provides specific data on species’ attributes, dangers, and protection efforts
  • Assists in conservation decisions and policy-making
Categories of Extinction Risk
  • Nine categories from NE (Not Evaluated) to EX (Extinct)
  • Threatened categories: Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), and Vulnerable (VU)
Global Targets Indicator Serves as a headline indicator for SDGs and Aichi Targets
IUCN Green Status of Species
  • Assesses the effectiveness of recovery and conservation processes for species’ populations
  • Categories: EW (Extinct in the Wild), CR (Critically Endangered), LR/cd (Least Concern/Conservation Dependent), MOD (Moderately Depleted), SL (Stable), FR (Fluctuating Range), ND (Not Determined), ID (Insufficient Data)

 

PYQ:

[2023] Invasive Species Specialist Group’ (that develops Global Invasive Species Database) belongs to which one of the following organizations?

(a) The International Union for Conservation of Nature
(b) The United Nations Environment Programme
(c) The United Nations World Commission for Environment and Development
(d) The World Wide Fund for Nature

[2015] With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?

  1. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments
  2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
  3. CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.

Select the correct using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Indian Star Tortoises rescued from Malaysia

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Indian Star Tortoise; TRAFFIC

Why in the News?

Malaysia has seized about 200 smuggled Indian Star Tortoises and Turtles in a major crackdown. The Indian star tortoise is the single most confiscated species of freshwater tortoise in the world, according to wildlife trade watchdog TRAFFIC.

About Indian Star Tortoises (Geochelone elegans)

Details
Habitat
  • Found in Central and Southern India, West Pakistan, and Sri Lanka
  • Typically resides in dry, open habitats such as scrub forests, grasslands, and rocky outcroppings
Threats
  • Habitat fragmentation due to urbanization and agricultural practices
  • Loss of genetic diversity due to hybridization
  • 90% of trade occurs in the international pet market, according to the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau
Protection Status
  • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
  • Wild Life Protection Act 1972: Schedule I
  • CITES: Appendix I

 

Back2Basics: TRAFFIC (Trade Records Analysis of Flora and Fauna in Commerce)

Details
Founded 1976
Headquarters Cambridge, United Kingdom
Mission Ensure that trade in wild plants and animals does not threaten the conservation of nature.
Founding Partners World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
Focus Areas
  • Biodiversity Conservation
  • Sustainable Development
Governance
  • TRAFFIC Committee (WWF and IUCN members)
  • Cooperation with the CITES Secretariat
Staff Expertise Biologists, conservationists, academics, researchers, communicators, investigators
Global Network Research-driven, action-oriented global network
Key Functions
  • Evolution of wildlife trade treaties
  • Expertise on urgent species trade issues (tiger parts, elephant ivory, rhino horn)
  • Addressing large-scale commercial trade in timber and fisheries products
TRAFFIC in India
  • Programme Division of WWF-India since 1991
  • Based in New Delhi
  • Collaborates with national and state governments to curb illegal wildlife trade

 

PYQ:

[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

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Great Indian Bustard Recovery Plan

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Great Indian Bustard and its recovery

bustard

Why in the News?

  • The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) approved Rs 56 crore for the next phase of the conservation program for the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) and the Lesser Florican for the 2024-2029 period.

Note: Both the Bustard and Lesser Florican are critically endangered, with only 140 Bustards and less than 1,000 Lesser Floricans surviving.

Back2Basics:  Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA)

Details
Establishment
  • Established by the MoEFCC.
  • Legal Basis: Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.
Objective Ensure effective utilization of funds for compensatory afforestation, catchment area treatment, wildlife management, and forest resource development.
Background Created due to the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes; aimed at mitigating the loss of forest cover through compensatory afforestation.
Structure National CAMPA Advisory Council: Provides policy advice and ensures inter-ministerial coordination.

State CAMPAs: Manage funds and oversee implementation at the state level.

Fund Utilization Funds are used for afforestation, forest ecosystem regeneration, wildlife protection, forest infrastructure, and conservation activities.
Key Activities
  • Afforestation and reforestation
  • Wildlife management
  • Forest management
  • Soil and moisture conservation
Financial Management
  • Managed by CAMPA at national and state levels;
  • Funds are non-lapsable and specifically allocated for forestry and wildlife activities.
Monitoring and Reporting Includes regular audits and progress reports to ensure transparency and accountability in fund utilization and project implementation.
Legal Framework Governed by the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016

CAMPA Guidelines.

Impact and Significance Crucial for mitigating deforestation impacts, supporting ecological balance, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable forest management.

About Great Indian Bustards

  • GIBs are the largest among the four bustard species found in India, the other three being MacQueen’s bustard, the lesser florican, and the Bengal florican.
  • GIBs’ historic range included much of the Indian sub-continent but it has now shrunken to just 10 percent of it.
    • Among the heaviest birds with flight, GIBs prefer grasslands as their habitats.
  • GIBs are mainly found in Desert National Park, Rajasthan.
  • Bustards face major threats, including habitat changes and collisions with power lines.
  • Protection accorded:
    • Birdlife International: uplisted from Endangered to Critically Endangered (2011)
    • Protection under CITES: Appendix I
    • IUCN status: Critically Endangered
    • Protection under Wildlife (Protection) Act: Schedule I

What is the GIB Recovery Plan?

  • The proposal was prepared by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
  • The proposal includes:
    • Rewilding Bustards bred in ex-situ conservation centres,
    • Conducting detailed population studies, and
    • Developing artificial insemination techniques.

Back2Basics: Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

  • WII is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
  • It was established in 1982.
  • It is based in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
    • Functions: It offers training programs, academic courses, and advisory in wildlife research and management.

Why such a move?

  • Indicator Species: The GIB is a key indicator species of grassland habitat, signalling the health of these environments.
  • Population Decline: The population has declined from around 700 individuals to less than 150 due to habitat loss, predation, and death by overhead power lines.
  • Supreme Court Order: The Supreme Court recognized the threat from power lines and constituted an expert committee to assess the feasibility of overhead and underground electric lines in the bustard’s habitats.

Conservation Efforts and Achievements

  • Recovery Plan: Initial efforts began between 2012-2013 with a long-term recovery project, which firmed up in 2016 with a Rs 33.85 crore funding outlay.
  • Funding and Agreements: The project was funded by the Compensatory Afforestation Fund, with a tripartite agreement in 2018 involving the Environment Ministry, Rajasthan Forest Department, and WII.
  • In-Situ Breeding: Conservation breeding began in 2019, resulting in a founder population of 40 GIBs at the Ramdevra centre.

Achievements at Breeding Centres

  • Successful Breeding: Eggs collected from the wild were incubated and chicks were hand-reared. The breeding centres now have a founder population of 40 GIBs.
  • Scientific Reasoning: Creating a founder population prevents extirpation and captures genetic variability. The goal is to have at least 20 adult birds including 15 females.

Future Plans

  • Next Phase (2024-2033): The immediate next phase will run until 2029, targeting the upgradation of the CBC at Ramdevra and the development of the Lesser Florican CBC at Sorsan.
  • Population Surveys: Surveys will be conducted in Rajasthan and other range states to monitor population status.
  • Release into the Wild: The most important target is releasing captive-bred GIBs into the wild, preceded by soft release in enclosures.

PYQ:

[2020] With reference to India’s Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct?
1. It is spread over two districts.
2. There is no human habitation inside the Park.
3. It is one of the natural habitats of the Great Indian Bustard.
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

[2019] Consider the following statements:

  1. As per law, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority exists at both National and State levels.
  2. People’s participation is mandatory in the compensatory afforestation programmes carried out under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Striped Caecilian: Limbless Amphibian spotted in Kaziranga’s fauna

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Striped Caecilian, Herpetofauna

Why in the News?

  • A limbless amphibian, the striped caecilian (Ichthyophis spp), has been newly identified within the 1,307.49 sq. km Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve.
    • Assam’s wildlife officials reported its discovery during a herpetofauna survey.

Back2Basics: Herpetofauna

  • Herpetofauna refers to a group of reptiles and amphibians collectively.
  • The term combines “herpeto-” from the Greek “herpeton,” meaning “creeping animal,” and “fauna,” referring to the animal species found in a particular region or time.
  • Herpetofauna play essential roles in ecosystems:
    • They act as both predators and prey, help regulate insect populations, and serve as indicators of environmental health.
    • They serve as environmental indicators and play significant roles in pest control.

About Striped Caecilian

  • The Striped Caecilian (Ichthyophis spp.) is a type of limbless amphibian belonging to the family Ichthyophiidae.
  • Caecilians are often mistaken for snakes or worms due to their elongated, cylindrical bodies and lack of limbs.
  • They are primarily found in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
  • They usually live underground or in moist soil habitats.

Key features of the Striped Caecilian include:

  1. They have smooth, cylindrical bodies with a ringed or striped pattern, hence the name “striped.”
  2. Caecilians are predominantly fossorial (burrowing), spending most of their lives underground or in leaf litter. This behaviour makes them elusive and difficult to study.
  3. They are carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates found in soil and leaf litter.
  4. Their eyesight is generally poor, and they rely on chemoreception (sensing chemicals in the environment) to locate prey.
  5. Caecilians are known for their unique reproductive strategies, which can involve live births or laying eggs. Some species exhibit parental care, with adults guarding eggs or young offspring.

Significance: Kaziranga’s Biodiversity

  • Kaziranga National Park’s diverse ecosystem, encompassing flood plains, wetlands, grasslands, and hill tracts, provides an ideal habitat for herpetofauna.
  • The park hosts 24 amphibian species, 74 reptile species, and 21 of India’s 29 species of tortoises and freshwater turtles.

About Kaziranga National Park

Details
Location Assam, India
Geographical Features Situated between Brahmaputra River and Karbi (Mikir) Hills
Significance Eastern Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot
Rivers Diphlu River runs through the park
Highways National Highway 37 passes through the park
Legal Status
  • Designated as a National Park in 1974.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site (1985).
  • Important Bird Area by Birdlife International
Key Conservation Achievements
  • Houses around 2/3rd of the world’s Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros.
  • Declared a Tiger Reserve due to high tiger density
‘Big Five’ species Great Indian One-Horned Rhino, Asian Elephant, Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Water Buffalo, Swamp Deer
Aquatic Species Gangetic River Dolphin
Vegetation Wet Alluvial Grasslands, Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests, Semi-Evergreen

Forests

 

PYQ:

[2024] The organisms “Cicada, Froghopper and Pond skater are:

(a) Birds

(b) Fish

(c) Insects

(d) Reptiles

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

Phtheirospermum Lushaiorum: Hemiparasite Plant Species named after Lushai Tribe  

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Phtheirospermum Lushaiorum:

Mains level: NA

Why in the News?

  • A rare hemi-parasitic terrestrial plant has been found in Phawngpui National Park of Mizoram.
    • It has been named ‘Phtheirospermum Lushaiorum’ after the Lushai tribe of Mizoram, honoring their commitment to biodiversity conservation.

About  Lushai Tribe

    • Lushai is another tribe under the Kuki-chin group (racially from Mongolia) of tribes.
      • They are commonly known as Mizos.
      • In Tripura there are 5,384 persons (as per 2011 Census).
    • Occupation: They mostly reside in the Jampui Hills area of Tripura and have Jhum Cultivation and hunting of wild animals as their main occupation.
  • Culture and belief:
    • converted to Christianity and still follow Christianity as their religion.
    • Their Cheraw Dance (Bamboo Dance) is quiet famous.

About Phtheirospermum Lushaiorum

  • This plant lacks a fully developed root system and taps into the sap of host plants through specialized structures known as haustoria.
  • Despite its parasitic nature, it contains chlorophyll and can produce its food, showing some independence from its host.
  • It flowers from July to September, with fruit production occurring from August to October.
  • The plant grows near a popular trekking route in Phawngpui National Park, facing threats from both anthropogenic activities and natural factors.

Back2Basics: Phawngpui National Park

    • Also known as Blue Mountain National Park, it is one of the two national parks in Mizoram (the other being Murlen NP).
  • Geographical location:
      • Close to the border with Burma (Myanmar).
      • The park overlooks the Chhimtuipui River, which flows toward Burma.
      • The geography of Phawngpui is characterized by its cloud-covered mountain area, which gives it a distinctive blue appearance from a distance.
  • Flora and Fauna:
      • Bird species:Blyth’s tragopan, falcons, sunbirds, dark-rumped swifts, and the Mizoram state bird, Mrs. Hume’s pheasant.
      • Mammals: Mountain goat, slow loris, tiger, leopard, leopard cat, serow, goral, Asiatic black bear, stump-tailed macaque, and capped langur. 
  • Flora: Grassy meadows, orchids, rhododendrons, and bamboo groves.

 

PYQ:

[2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 meters and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?

(a) Andaman Islands

(b) Anaimalai Forests

(c) Maikala Hills

(d) Tropical rain forests of Northeast

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Scientists document Sperm Whales ‘Phonetic Alphabet’

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Sperm Whales, Project CETI

Why in the news?

  • A recent study has uncovered the intricate structure of their communication system, which appears to possess a “phonetic alphabet,” offering new insights into the depth of their social interactions.
    • Sperm whales, the largest toothed whales, utilize a diverse array of vocalizations to communicate, including bursts of clicking noises known as ‘codas’.

About Sperm Whales (Physeter macrocephalus)).

  • Sperm whales, the largest toothed whales
  • It has a series of vertical creases or wrinkles on its body and a small, inconspicuous dorsal fin located near the rear of its back.
  • The sperm whale uses ‘echolocation’ to navigate and locate prey during these deep dives.
    • Prey: Sperm whales primarily feed on squid (including the giant squid) sharks and deep-sea fish.
    • Habitat: Sperm whales are found in deep oceanic waters worldwide, from the equator to the edges of the pack ice in the Arctic and Antarctic.
    • Behavior: Known for their exceptional diving capabilities, sperm whales can dive to depths of over 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) and stay submerged for up to 90 minutes. They are social animals, typically found in groups called pods’, which can contain up to twenty individuals.
  • Conservation Status: Listed as ‘VULNERABLE’ by the IUCN.
    • Threats cause: Collisions with ships, entanglement in fishing gear, and noise pollution.

Insights from the Study:

  • Expressivity: The study, which utilized data from Project CETI demonstrated that sperm whale calls exhibit a broader range of expressivity than previously recognized, hinting at a nuanced mode of communication.
  • Social Dynamics: Like all marine mammals, sperm whales rely heavily on vocalizations as an integral aspect of their social interactions.
  • Contextual Analysis: The next phase of research aims to decipher the behavioural context surrounding sperm whale vocalizations, shedding light on their potential meanings.

About Project CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative)

  • Project CETI is a non-profit, interdisciplinary scientific and conservation initiative on a mission to listen to and translate the communication of sperm whales off the island of Dominica in the Eastern Caribbean.

 

PYQ:

[2013] Consider the following animals

  1. Sea cow
  2. Sea horse
  3. Sea lion

Which of the above is/are mammal/mammals?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c)  2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

Preserving Rajasthan’s Semal Trees 

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Semal Trees and its habitat

Mains level: NA

Why in the News?

Despite its ecological importance, rampant harvesting of Semal Trees for bonfires poses a grave threat to their existence, undermining biodiversity and cultural heritage alike.

About Semal/ Silk Cotton Trees

  • The Semal tree, scientifically known as Bombax ceiba, is a deciduous tropical tree.
  • It is native to India, South-East Asia, and Northern Australia.
  • It can grow up to 60 meters tall. It has a distinctive straight trunk, often with spiky thorns, and a wide, spreading canopy.
  • It produces vivid red flowers that are large and attractive, making it quite conspicuous when in bloom.
  • The fruit of the Semal tree is a capsule that contains several seeds surrounded by a fibrous, cotton-like substance which is wind-dispersed.

Commercial Uses

  • The fibers extracted from the fruit, known as kapok, are used for stuffing pillows, mattresses, and life jackets due to their buoyancy and insulating properties.
  • The wood is soft and is often used for making paper, while in rural areas, it is used as fuelwood and for making cheap furniture.

Ecological Significance

  • Members of tribal communities consume the tree’s reddish root for food during the monsoons.
  • Larvae of the moth Bucculatrix crateracma feed on its leaves.
  • The golden-crowned sparrow weaves the lining of its nests with white cotton from its seeds.

Felling of a Semal Tree: Which laws are violated?

  1. Rajasthan Forest Act 1953: This act prohibits various activities in reserved forests without prior permission. Specifically, it bars any unauthorized person from felling, uprooting, damaging, or otherwise harming trees. Violating these prohibitions can lead to penalties including imprisonment, fines, or both, depending on the severity of the offence. Semal tree is not recorded in the state’s list of ‘rare, threatened, and endangered’ species. (Trees on this list enjoy priority conservation efforts.) (Indian Kanoon)​
  2. Forest (Conservation) Act 1980: This act is more comprehensive at the national level and was enacted to provide for the conservation of forests and to regulate deforestation. It requires that any non-forest use of forest land must have prior approval from the Central Government. This includes clearances for felling trees, which are only granted under specific conditions that ensure the conservation and sustainable use of forest resources.​ (UNEPLawEnvAssistantPlat)​

PYQ:

[2015] In India, in which one of the following types of forests is teak a dominant tree species?

(a) Tropical moist deciduous forest

(b) Tropical rainforest

(c) Tropical thorn scrub forest

(d) Temperate forest with grasslands

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Species in news: Himalayan Magpies 

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Himalayan Magpies

Mains level: NA

Why in the news?

Blue magpie species are frequently observed from Kashmir to Myanmar.

About Himalayan Magpies

  • Magpies belong to the Corvidae family, which also includes crows, jays, and ravens.
  • These birds are typically noisy and inquisitive, often featured as omens in folklore around the world.
  • Species Distribution and Habitat:
    • Gold-billed Magpie (Urocissa flavirostris): Also known as the yellow-billed blue magpie, this species inhabits high altitudes between 2,000 and 3,000 meters above sea level, thriving in the high-altitude zones of the Himalayas from Kashmir to Myanmar.
    • Red-billed Magpie: Found at slightly lower altitudes than the gold-billed magpie.
    • Blue Magpie: Occupies lower altitudes and is more likely to be found near human settlements. It builds nests in rhododendron trees.
  • IUCN Status: ‘Least Concerned’

Observations:

  • The best sightings of yellow and red-billed magpies are along a trekking corridor in Western Sikkim, which spans from tropical forests at lower altitudes to Alpine landscapes.
  • Over 250 species of birds have been documented in this region, with significant bird activity around 2,500 meters.

PYQ:

[2014] If you walk through countryside, you are likely to see some birds stalking alongside the cattle to seize the insects, disturbed by their movement through grasses.

Which of the following is/are such bird/birds?

  1. Painted Stork
  2. Common Myna
  3. Black-necked Crane

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3

(d) 3 only

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

Kerala bans Oleander Flowers in Temple Offerings

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Oleander Flowers

Why in the news?

Kerala temple authorities have banned the use of oleander flowers in offerings following the accidental poisoning of a woman who chewed oleander leaves.

What is Oleander?

  • Nerium oleander, commonly known as oleander or rosebay, is a plant cultivated worldwide in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions. 
  • Known for its drought tolerance, the shrub is often used for ornamental and landscaping purposes.
  • In Kerala, it’s called arali or kanaveeram and is used for natural fencing along highways and beaches.
  • According to the IUCN Red List, Nerium oleander (Oleander) is classified as Least Concern

Traditional Medicinal Uses:

  • Termed as “desert rose” in ancient texts, oleander has been trusted with its medicinal properties such as a hangover cure, in cancer treatments, and as an antiviral.
  • The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India mentions oleander, particularly the use of oil from the root bark to treat skin diseases.
  • oleander’s use in treating skin diseases, leprosy, wounds, itching, and parasites.

Toxicity of Oleander:

  • Oleander is highly toxic due to cardiac glycosides present in all parts of the plant.
  • Cardiac glycosides like oleandrin and digitoxigenin exert pharmacological effects on the heart, leading to nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, and, in severe cases, death..

PYQ:

[2018] Why is a plant called Prosopis Juliflora often mentioned in the news?

(a) Its extract is widely used in cosmetics

(b) It tends to reduce the biodiversity in the area in which it grow

(c) Its extract is used in the synthesis of pesticides

(d) None of the above

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

Glyptothorax punyabratai: A New Catfish Species discovered  

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Glyptothorax punyabratai and its natural habitat

Mains level: NA

Why in the news?

Glyptothorax punyabratai, a new catfish species, has been discovered in the Brahmaputra River drainage in Arunachal Pradesh.

  • The discovery was made by the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR), Lucknow, and published in the journal Ichthyological Exploration of Freshwaters.

Glyptothorax punyabratai

  • It was collected from the Tung Stream, a tributary of the Tissa River, within the Brahmaputra River basin.
  • It has a unique rhomboidal-shaped thoracic adhesive apparatus, which is a specialized structure that helps the fish adhere to surfaces.
  • The holotype and paratype specimens are housed at the National Fish Museum-cum-Repository of the ICAR-NBFGR, Lucknow.
    • This discovery underscores the potential for both utilization and conservation of fish biodiversity in unexplored areas.

PYQ:

[2019]  Consider the following pairs

Wildlife Naturally found in
1. Blue-finned Mahseer Cauvery River
2. Irrawaddy Dolphin Chambal River
3. Rusty-spotted Cat Eastern Ghats

Which of the pairs given correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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New Species of Plants and Animals Discovered

Scintillating Sea Creatures and their Uniqueness

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Scintillating Sea Creatures mentioned in the newscard

Mains level: NA

 

Why in the News?

“Scintillating” means sparkling or shining brightly, often used metaphorically to describe something lively, exciting, or brilliantly clever.

Species Description Notable Features IUCN Status
Seahorses

Small, dragon-like creatures inhabiting tropical seas.
  • Vibrant colors and intricate camouflage
  • Unique parenting style with male nurturing eggs
Status: Near Threatened
Mantis Shrimp

 

Colorful crustaceans found in tropical waters, known for hunting prowess.
  • Impressive stabbing or punching abilities
  • Display familial bonds
Status: Least Concerned
Octopus

Highly intelligent marine creatures with a wise demeanor.
  • They have three functioning hearts.
  • Venomous beaks and powerful suckers.
  • Solitary nature, adept at camouflage
Status: Least Concerned

Recently, marine scientists have discovered a new Octopus nursery off the coast of Costa Rica.

Starfish

Also known as sea stars, possess remarkable regenerative abilities.

Starfish have two stomachs – the pyloric and the cardiac stomach.

  • Each arm contains vital organs.
  • Starfish belongs to the phylum Echinodermata group. Echinodermata are so named owing to their spiny skin
  • They have a unique feeding method involving stomach extrusion.
Status: The Sunflower sea star (Pycnopodia helianthoides) is Critically Endangered.
Hermit Crabs

Resourceful creatures use discarded shells for shelter.
  • They use empty snail shells or other hollow objects as a shelter for partial containment and protection of the body.
  • Hermit crabs occur in sandy- or muddy-bottomed marine waters and occasionally on land and in trees.
  • Status: Least Concerned
  • The majority of terrestrial hermit crab species worldwide have used trash as shells, according to a recent study by experts.

 

PYQ:

[2013] Consider the following animals

  1. Sea cow
  2. Sea horse
  3. Sea lion

Which of the above is/are mammal/mammals?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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

Criollo: Cattle Breed that can withstand Climate Change

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Criollo Cattle Breed

Mains level: NA

Why in the news?

Irish researchers discovered that Criollo cattle are well-adapted to Climate Change due to their ability to thrive in hot and humid conditions, which they have developed over many years.

About Criollo Cattle Breed

Details
Origin Latin America, particularly in regions such as Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America
Historical Context
  • Criollo cattle trace their roots back to the arrival of Spanish cattle in the Americas during the 15th and 16th centuries.
  • Initially brought from La Gomera in the Spanish Canary Islands, adapted to diverse environments.
Physical Appearance
  • Small to medium-sized cattle with a compact body structure
  • Adapted to various climates, including tropical and subtropical regions
  • Short, sleek coat, often in various colors such as black, brown, or red
Adaptability Known for their resilience and ability to thrive in harsh environments

Well-suited to extensive grazing systems and low-input management practices

Disease Resistance Developed natural resistance to various diseases prevalent in their native regions, such as tick-borne illnesses and parasites
Economic Importance
  • Valued for their ability to utilize low-quality forages and adaptability to diverse environments
  • Serve as a sustainable source of meat and dairy products for local communities

 

PYQ:

2016:

What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?

1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.

2. It survives by grazing on mangroves.

3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

 

Practice MCQ:

The Criollo cattle breed has recently found mention in the news for its:

(a) Breeding Capacity

(b) Nutrients-rich Milk

(c) Adaptability to Climate Change

(d) Life Expectancy

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Caracals on the brink of extinction in India

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Caracals and their habitat in India

Mains level: NA

Why in the news?

  • With only an estimated 50 individuals remaining, predominantly in western India, the caracal (Caracal caracal schmitzi) is on the verge of extinction in the country.
  • Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan and Kutch in Gujarat are the last strongholds for caracals in India, hosting around 28 and 20 individuals, respectively.

About Caracals

  • Caracals are small wild cats known for their long ears with tufts and a reddish-tan or sandy-brown fur. It is called Siya Gosh in India.
  • It is nocturnal animal typically preys upon small mammals, birds, and rodents.
  • They live naturally in India, especially in Northwestern India. They are also found in Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
  • They are found in Aravalli hill range, semi-deserts, savannahs, scrublands, and dry forests.
  • Caracals used to live all over Central India and the Indo-Gangetic plains, but they haven’t been spotted in those areas for 40 years.

Conservation Status

  • Caracals are listed as ‘Least Concern‘ on the IUCN Red List globally.
  • It is listed as Near Threatened in India,
  • It falls in the Schedule-I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Protection Efforts

  • In 2021, the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEFCC) announced a plan to recover and increase the population of 22 species in India, including caracals.
  • Areas like Kutch, Aravalli mountains, Malwa plateau, and Bundelkhand region have been identified as potential habitats, with the Ranthambore-Kuno Landscape being a key conservation site.

PYQ:

2017:

In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply?

(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 now 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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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

North Atlantic Right Whales: Threats and Conservation Imperatives

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: North Atlantic Right Whales

Mains level: NA

Why in the news?

  • North Atlantic right whales face a grave threat due to entanglement in fishing gear, contributing to their critically endangered status.
  • Entanglement not only leads to physical harm but also affects reproductive success, exacerbating the species’ decline.

Impact of Entanglement

  • Lethal and Sublethal Effects: Entanglement in fishing gear leads to energy expenditure, reduced feeding efficiency, and physical injuries, ultimately impacting whales’ ability to reproduce and survive. Even minor entanglements have devastating consequences on female right whales.
  • Reproductive Implications: Females experiencing entanglement events, even classified as “minor,” exhibit reduced breeding rates, with potential long-term consequences for population recovery. Poor health and physical condition further impede breeding success.

About Right Whales

  • Right whales are a group of large baleen whales belonging to the family Balaenidae.
  • There are three species of right whales:
  1. North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis),
  2. North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica), and
  3. Southern right whale (Eubalaena australis).
  • They are distinguished by their geographic distribution and slight differences in physical characteristics.
  • Right whales inhabit temperate and subpolar waters of the North Atlantic, North Pacific, and Southern Hemisphere.
  • They are often found in coastal areas during their feeding and breeding seasons but may migrate over long distances.
  • All three species of right whales are listed as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

North Atlantic Right Whales

 

  • It is listed as Critically Endangered in the IUCN Red List.
  • Only around 360 individuals remain, with almost 90% having experienced entanglement at least once.

 


PYQ:

2015: With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?

  1. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments
  2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
  3. CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

 

Practice MCQ:

The North Atlantic Right Whales were recently seen in news for a peculiar behaviour. Identify the correct statement about the North Atlantic Right Whales:

  1. Entanglement in fishing net has led to permanent loss of breeding capability.
  2. Extinct due to commercial hunting.
  3. Generates large amounts of Aspergis, an aromatic substance.
  4. In-situ breeding was successful.

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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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