What are melanistic tigers and what makes tigers melanistic? How setting up a melanistic tiger safari near Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) will boost tourism?

Introduction:

 A Simple Introduction about Melanistic Tigers

Melanism is a genetic condition characterized by increased melanin production, resulting in black or nearly black skin, feathers, or hair in animals. In the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), there exists a unique lineage of royal Bengal tigers with higher-than-normal levels of melanin, giving them black and yellow interspersed stripes on their coats, though they are more accurately described as pseudo-melanistic.

Body:

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What makes tigers melanistic?

• Researchers at the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) in Bengaluru have identified a single mutation in the gene Transmembrane Aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) responsible for the unique appearance of melanistic tigers in Similipal. This mutation causes the black tigers to develop stripes that appear broader or spread into the tawny background.
• Genetic analysis and computer simulations suggest that the pseudo-melanistic tigers in Similipal are inbred and descended from a small founding population of tigers. These tigers live in isolation within the STR, leading to inbreeding among themselves.

Setting up a melanistic tiger safari near Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR):

• The STR is the only place where melanistic tigers have been recorded in Odisha. According to the 2022 All India Tiger Estimation, 16 individuals were recorded in STR, with 10 being melanistic.
• Susanta Nanda, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Odisha, has identified approximately 200 hectares of land along the Dhanbad-Balasore National Highway-18 for the proposed safari. This area is about 15 kilometres from STR and offers a scenery similar to Simlipal.
• The safari aims to allow wildlife conservationists, researchers, and enthusiasts to observe the rare melanistic tigers up close, raising awareness about the need for their conservation.
• Since tiger sightings in STR can be challenging due to its vast area, the safari is proposed as an additional attraction for visitors to Similipal.

Conclusion:

Your conclusion should be simple and balanced

In addition to the identification of suitable land for the safari, the state government will need to obtain various statutory clearances, including approval from the Central Zoo Authority. The proposed melanistic tiger safari near Similipal Tiger Reserve holds promise for boosting tourism while contributing to the conservation efforts of these unique big cats.

Other Points to Ponder

Tiger Reserves in India

NTCA