Daily Current Affairs : 25-October-2024
Recently, two individuals were arrested in Noida for attempting to smuggle live Indian flapshell turtles. This illegal trade has raised concerns about the conservation of this vulnerable species, which is protected under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The turtles, native to South Asia, are considered government property, making their trade a serious crime.
About the Indian Flapshell Turtle
The Indian flapshell turtle (scientific name: Lissemys punctata) is a freshwater species found across various countries in South Asia. Let’s explore some key features of this fascinating turtle:
- Habitat: These turtles are commonly found in rivers, ponds, lakes, and canals, particularly in areas with muddy or sandy bottoms. They thrive in freshwater environments.
- Physical Features: The Indian flapshell turtle is named for the flaps of skin on its plastron (the underside of the shell). These flaps cover the turtle’s limbs when retracted, which is a unique feature that distinguishes it from other turtle species.
- Diet and Behavior: They are omnivorous, feeding on both plant and animal matter. These turtles are solitary creatures and have adapted well to drought conditions, where they can survive with limited water resources.
- Geographic Distribution: This species is widespread across South Asia, including countries like India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
Conservation Status
The Indian flapshell turtle is facing numerous threats due to habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal wildlife trade. As a result, it is classified under the following conservation categories:
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable – indicating that the species is at risk of extinction.
- CITES: Appendix I – meaning international trade in these turtles is prohibited.
- Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I – making their trade, hunting, and transportation illegal in India.
The Threat of Illegal Trade
Despite legal protections, the smuggling of these turtles remains a significant problem. Turtles are often sold in the illegal pet trade or used in traditional medicine, further pushing the species toward extinction.
Important Points:
- Indian Flapshell Turtle (Lissemys punctata) is a freshwater species found across South Asia (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar).
- Habitat: Prefers muddy or sandy bottoms of rivers, ponds, lakes, and canals.
- Distinctive Feature: Flaps of skin on the plastron that cover the limbs when retracted.
- Diet and Behavior: Omnivorous, solitary, well-adapted to drought conditions.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
- CITES: Appendix I (international trade prohibited).
- Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (trade, hunting, and transportation illegal).
- Illegal Wildlife Trade: Recently, two individuals were arrested in Noida for attempting to smuggle live Indian flapshell turtles.
- Threats to Survival: Habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal wildlife trade.
- Legal Protections: Despite legal safeguards, turtles are often smuggled for the illegal pet trade or traditional medicine.
- Conservation Efforts: Strict enforcement of laws and public awareness are essential to protect the species.
Why In News
Recently, two individuals were arrested in Noida for smuggling live Indian flapshell turtles, highlighting the ongoing issue of illegal wildlife trade in the region. These turtles, protected under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, are considered government property, making their trade illegal and punishable by law. Such incidents emphasize the urgent need for stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws to safeguard vulnerable species from exploitation.
MCQs about Indian Flapshell Turtles
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What is the primary reason the Indian flapshell turtle is protected under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972?
A. It is a popular pet in India
B. It is an important species in traditional medicine
C. It is classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List
D. It is an invasive species in South Asia
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What unique physical feature distinguishes the Indian flapshell turtle from other turtle species?
A. A bright red shell
B. Flaps of skin on its plastron that cover its limbs
C. Its ability to fly short distances
D. A long, pointed tail
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Which of the following is NOT a threat to the survival of the Indian flapshell turtle?
A. Habitat destruction
B. Illegal wildlife trade
C. Climate change-induced droughts
D. Lack of food sources in its habitat
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Where is the Indian flapshell turtle found in the wild?
A. Only in the rivers of India
B. Across South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar
C. Only in the Himalayan foothills
D. In forests and grasslands across South Asia
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