Daily Current Affairs : 26-February-2024

The Indian gharial, a severely endangered crocodile species, has been sighted in the Greater Kaziranga landscape for the third consecutive year. This is a hopeful sign for conservationists working to protect this unique species.

Habitat

Kaziranga’s abundance of freshwater fish species makes it one of the great habitats for gharials. The rich biodiversity in this area provides ample food for these fascinating creatures.

Characteristics of the Gharial

The Indian gharial, also known as the fish-eating crocodile or gavial, is a crocodilian that lives within the Indian Subcontinent. It is one of the largest crocodilians.

Physical Features
  • Long and Thin Snout: The gharial has a uniquely long and skinny snout that helps it catch fish effectively.
  • Bulbous Tip: At the tip of its snout is a large bulb called the “ghara,” which is especially prominent in adult males.

Behavior

The gharial is the most aquatic of all crocodilians, as it never moves far from the water. This strong connection to aquatic environments is crucial for its survival.

Conservation Status

India has three species of crocodilians, specifically:

  1. Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus): IUCN Red List – Critically Endangered
  2. Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris): IUCN – Vulnerable
  3. Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus): IUCN – Least Concern

All three are listed on Appendix I of CITES and Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. This legal protection is vital for ensuring their survival against threats such as habitat loss and illegal hunting.

Important Points:

Species Overview:

  • The Indian gharial is a critically endangered crocodile species.
  • It has been sighted in the Greater Kaziranga landscape for three consecutive years.

Habitat:

  • Kaziranga has a rich abundance of freshwater fish, making it an ideal habitat for gharials.

Physical Characteristics:

  • The gharial has a uniquely long and thin snout.
  • It features a large bulb at the tip called the “ghara.”

Behavior:

  • The gharial is the most aquatic of all crocodilians and rarely moves far from water.

Crocodilian Species in India:

  • Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus): Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List)
  • Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris): Vulnerable (IUCN)
  • Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus): Least Concern (IUCN)

Legal Protection:

  • All three species are listed on Appendix I of CITES and Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Conservation Importance:

  • Continued conservation efforts are vital for the survival of the gharial and maintaining ecological balance in freshwater ecosystems.

Why In News

The Indian gharial, a critically endangered crocodile species, has been sighted in the Greater Kaziranga landscape for the third consecutive year, indicating a positive trend in its population and the effectiveness of conservation efforts in the region.

MCQs about The Indian Gharial

  1. What is the conservation status of the Indian gharial according to the IUCN Red List?
    A. Least Concern
    B. Vulnerable
    C. Endangered
    D. Critically Endangered
    Correct Answer: D. Critically Endangered
    Explanation: The Indian gharial is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, highlighting its severe risk of extinction.
  2. What feature distinguishes the gharial from other crocodilians?
    A. Short, stubby snout
    B. Long, thin snout with a bulbous tip
    C. Brightly colored scales
    D. Ability to live on land
    Correct Answer: B. Long, thin snout with a bulbous tip
    Explanation: The gharial has a uniquely long and thin snout with a large bulb at the tip called the “ghara,” which is a distinctive characteristic.
  3. Why is Kaziranga considered an ideal habitat for gharials?
    A. It has many trees for nesting.
    B. It is home to a rich variety of freshwater fish.
    C. It is a dry, desert region.
    D. It is far from human settlements.
    Correct Answer: B. It is home to a rich variety of freshwater fish.
    Explanation: Kaziranga’s abundance of freshwater fish species provides an ample food source for gharials, making it a great habitat for them.
  4. Which of the following is NOT one of the three crocodilian species found in India?
    A. Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus)
    B. Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris)
    C. Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus)
    D. Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)
    Correct Answer: C. Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus)
    Explanation: The Nile Crocodile is not one of the three crocodilian species found in India; the gharial, mugger crocodile, and saltwater crocodile are the ones listed.

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