Discovery of the Critically Endangered Elongated Tortoise in Haryana’s Aravallis

Daily Current Affairs : 11-September-2024

In a recent research survey, a critically endangered elongated tortoise was spotted for the first time in the Damdama area of Haryana, located within the Aravalli Range. This discovery is significant because the species, typically found in Southeast Asia, is not native to this region. The presence of this tortoise in the Aravallis could be linked to illegal wildlife trade or other human activities. The elongated tortoise is listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), mainly due to habitat loss, poaching, and the pet trade.

Characteristics of the Elongated Tortoise

The elongated tortoise is a medium-sized species with distinctive physical features:

• Shell Color: Yellowish-brown or olive, with black blotches.
• Habitat: Normally found in Southeast Asia, especially in forests and hilly areas.

Its spotted appearance and unique shell make it stand out among other tortoise species. However, its presence in the Aravallis is unusual, indicating the possible movement or trade of wildlife across regions.

The Threats to the Elongated Tortoise

The IUCN Red List places the elongated tortoise in the “Critically Endangered” category. This status highlights the severe threats the species faces, including:

• Habitat destruction: Urbanization and deforestation have destroyed many of their natural habitats.
• Illegal trade: The tortoise is often captured and sold in illegal wildlife markets.
• Human activities: Farming, logging, and poaching have further contributed to its population decline.

About the Aravalli Range

The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest mountain ranges in India, stretching over 692 kilometers from Gujarat to Delhi, with a width of 10 to 120 kilometers. It serves as a natural barrier and ecological transition zone between the Thar Desert and the Gangetic Plain. Key facts about the Aravallis include:

• Location: 80% of the range is in Rajasthan, with the remaining 20% spanning Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat.
• Highest Peak: Gurusikhar in Rajasthan, standing at 1,722 meters.
• Ecological Importance: The Aravallis are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and play a critical role in maintaining regional climate and biodiversity.

Important Points:

• Discovery of Elongated Tortoise:
  • A critically endangered elongated tortoise was spotted for the first time in Haryana’s Damdama area in the Aravallis during a research survey.
  • The tortoise is typically found in Southeast Asia and its presence in the Aravallis is unusual, possibly linked to illegal wildlife trade.
• Physical Characteristics:
  • Shell Color: Yellowish-brown or olive with black blotches.
  • Size: Medium-sized tortoise.
• Conservation Status:
  • The elongated tortoise is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to population declines caused by:
    • Habitat destruction.
    • Illegal wildlife trade.
    • Poaching.
• The Aravalli Range:
  • Spans 692 kilometers from Gujarat to Delhi, with a width of 10 to 120 kilometers.
  • Acts as an ecotone (transition zone) between the Thar Desert and the Gangetic Plain.
  • Divided into two main sections: Sambhar Sirohi Range and Sambhar Khetri Range in Rajasthan.
  • The highest peak in the Aravallis is Gurusikhar at 1,722 meters.
• Ecological Importance of the Aravallis:
  • The range is critical for maintaining regional climate and biodiversity.
  • It serves as a natural barrier and plays a vital role in preserving ecosystems.
• Threats to Wildlife:
  • Habitat loss from urbanization and deforestation.
  • The impact of illegal wildlife trade and human activities such as farming and logging.

Why In News

A critically endangered elongated tortoise was spotted for the first time in Haryana’s Damdama area, located in the Aravalli Range, during a recent research survey, raising concerns about its possible link to illegal wildlife trade or human activity in the region. This rare sighting highlights the increasing vulnerability of the species and the importance of monitoring its presence in non-native habitats.

MCQs about Discovery of the Critically Endangered Elongated Tortoise in Haryana’s Aravallis

1. Where was the critically endangered elongated tortoise spotted for the first time in India?
   A. Rajasthan
   B. Uttar Pradesh
   C. Haryana
   D. Gujarat
   Show Answer
   Correct Answer: C. Haryana
   Explanation: The critically endangered elongated tortoise was spotted for the first time in **Haryana’s Damdama area**, located in the Aravalli Range, during a research survey.
   
2. What is a key characteristic of the elongated tortoise’s shell?
   A. Bright red with white stripes
   B. Yellowish-brown or olive with black blotches
   C. Completely black
   D. Transparent with a blue tint
   Show Answer
   Correct Answer: B. Yellowish-brown or olive with black blotches
   Explanation: The elongated tortoise is known for its yellowish-brown or olive shell with distinctive black blotches, which is a key feature that helps in identifying the species.
   
3. Which of the following is NOT a reason for the population decline of the elongated tortoise?
   A. Habitat destruction
   B. Climate change
   C. Illegal wildlife trade
   D. Poaching
   Show Answer
   Correct Answer: B. Climate change
   Explanation: The primary threats to the elongated tortoise include habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and poaching. While climate change could affect ecosystems in general, it is not explicitly mentioned as a direct cause of population decline for this species in the essay.
   
4. What is the ecological significance of the Aravalli Range?
   A. It serves as a major tourist destination
   B. It acts as an ecotone between the Thar Desert and the Gangetic Plain
   C. It is the highest mountain range in India
   D. It is primarily a desert region
   Show Answer
   Correct Answer: B. It acts as an ecotone between the Thar Desert and the Gangetic Plain
   Explanation: The Aravalli Range serves as an ecotone, or transition zone, between the Thar Desert and the Gangetic Plain, playing an important role in maintaining regional biodiversity and climate.
   

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