Biodiversity: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Environment and Ecology)

Explanation

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global organization that assesses the conservation status of species. IUCN maintains a Red List to categorize species based on their risk of extinction. Endangered species are those at high risk, requiring urgent conservation efforts to prevent extinction and protect biodiversity. Some of the common species which are under ‘Endangered’ category of the Red Book, are listed as under:

1. Indian Elephant 2. Bengal Tiger

3. Asiatic Lion 4. Indian Rhino

5. Ganges Dolphin 6. Crocodile The Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), a species of crocodile found in India, is critically endangered, with fewer than 250 individuals remaining in the wild. The Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus pal-ustris) is classified as Vulnerable. Habitat loss, poaching, and declining prey populations have contributed to their endangered status. The Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus) is listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching are significant threats to their survival. India is home to approximately 60% of the global Asian elephant population. Note: Presently, Mugger is under Vulnerable category and Sal-water crocodiles are under Least Concern but Ghariyal is listed as Critically Endangered.