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.
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
>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?
IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments
IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
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
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.
AboutIndian 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)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Great Indian Bustard and its recovery
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:
As per law, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority exists at both National and State levels.
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
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 snakesor 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:
They have smooth, cylindrical bodies with a ringed or striped pattern, hence the name “striped.”
Caecilians are predominantly fossorial (burrowing), spending most of their lives underground or in leaf litter. This behaviour makes them elusive and difficult to study.
They are carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates found in soil and leaf litter.
Their eyesight is generally poor, and they rely on chemoreception (sensing chemicals in the environment) to locate prey.
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
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?
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.
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 woodissoft 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 crateracmafeed 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?
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)
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?
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?
Painted Stork
Common Myna
Black-necked Crane
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
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
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.
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:
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.
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 entanglementin 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:
North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis),
North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica), and
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?
IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments
IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
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 only
2 and 3 only
1 and 3 only
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:
Entanglement in fishing net has led to permanent loss of breeding capability.
Extinct due to commercial hunting.
Generates large amounts of Aspergis, an aromatic substance.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hangul (Kashmir Stag)
Mains level: NA
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
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Melanochlamys Droupadi
Mains level: NA
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.
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.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Horseshoe Crab and its conservation
Mains level: NA
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.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sphaerotheca Varshaabhu
Mains level: Read the attached story
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.
