Daily Current Affairs : 17-August-2023
In recent news, a significant study has shed light on the emergence of the Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV) in a banteng in Cambodia. This discovery has raised concerns about the potential impact of this virus on banteng populations and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV): An Overview
Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV) is a viral infection that affects cattle, causing skin lesions and other related symptoms. The virus is primarily transmitted through biting insects, such as mosquitoes and ticks. While LSDV is not known to be directly harmful to humans, it can have significant economic and ecological consequences for livestock and wildlife.
The Detection of LSDV in a Banteng
The recent study reported the detection of LSDV in a banteng in Cambodia. Banteng, scientifically known as Bos javanicus, is a type of wild cattle that is native to Southeast Asia. This finding is noteworthy because it highlights the potential vulnerability of this species to emerging diseases like LSDV.
Banteng: Understanding the Species
Banteng Habitat and Distribution
Bantengs are known for their preference to inhabit open and dry deciduous forests abundant with grassy vegetation. Historically, these remarkable creatures ranged from southern China and northeast India across mainland Southeast Asia. Their habitat extended from Peninsular Malaysia to the islands of Borneo, Java, and possibly Bali.
Banteng Populations and Threats
The study revealed that the most significant populations of banteng that remain are located in Java, Cambodia, and potentially in Thailand and Borneo (Sabah, Malaysia). However, the banteng population has faced several threats that have pushed them to the brink of endangerment. The primary threats include hunting, habitat degradation, and loss. Human activities such as poaching and habitat destruction have contributed to the decline in banteng numbers.
Conservation Status: A Glimpse at the IUCN Red List
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List is a comprehensive database that assesses the conservation status of various species based on their risk of extinction. The banteng, due to its dwindling population and the threats it faces, is categorized as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List. This designation underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect and preserve the banteng species.
Important Points:
- A study reveals the emergence of Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV) in a banteng in Cambodia.
- LSDV is a viral infection affecting cattle, transmitted through biting insects like mosquitoes and ticks.
- The LSDV discovery raises concerns about its impact on banteng populations and ecosystems.
- Banteng (Bos javanicus) is a type of wild cattle native to Southeast Asia.
- Banteng prefer open, grassy forests; historically found from southern China to Borneo and Java.
- Major remaining banteng populations are in Java, Cambodia, and possibly Thailand and Borneo.
- Banteng face threats such as hunting, habitat degradation, and loss.
- IUCN Red List categorizes banteng as “Endangered” due to population decline and threats.
- Conservation efforts are vital to protect banteng and preserve Southeast Asian biodiversity.
Why In News
In a groundbreaking study, the emergence of Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV) took a pivotal turn with its initial identification in Cambodia, where it was observed in a banteng for the first time. This discovery not only shed light on the virus’s potential cross-species transmission but also underscored the importance of monitoring wildlife populations as potential reservoirs for emerging diseases.
MCQs about LSDV Detection in Banteng
-
What is the primary mode of transmission for Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV)?
A. Direct contact with infected animals
B. Consumption of contaminated water
C. Transmission through air
D. Biting insects like mosquitoes and ticks
-
What is the main reason behind the vulnerability of banteng to emerging diseases like LSDV?
A. Genetic mutations
B. Lack of immunity in banteng
C. Deforestation
D. Their preference for grassy forests
-
Which region has the most significant remaining banteng populations?
A. Southern China
B. Northeast India
C. Java and Cambodia
D. Borneo and Bali
-
Why is the IUCN Red List categorizing banteng as “Endangered”?
A. Due to their aggressive behavior
B. Their popularity among tourists
C. Loss of habitat and hunting threats
D. Their role in pollination
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
