DUSTED APOLLO
This butterfly was first discovered in 1890 and is quite elusive. In fact, it was only recently photographed for the first time in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh in September 2023. This sighting is significant as it indicates the flourishing diversity of Apollo butterflies in the region.
The Dusted Apollo is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of about 50-60 mm. Its wings are white with black markings, and the hindwings have a row of red spots. The forewings have a distinctive discal band that is complete and extends from the costa to vein one. This feature helps to distinguish it from the similar-looking Ladakh Banded Apollo, whose discal band is incomplete.
The Dusted Apollo is a threatened species due to habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this beautiful butterfly and its fragile ecosystem
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3. What are rare Species?
Rare species are those that have a very limited population size or a restricted geographic range, making them vulnerable to various threats. The rarity of a species can be influenced by factors such as habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, over-exploitation, and other human activities
Here are some characteristics of rare species:
- Small population size: Rare species typically have a small number of individuals worldwide, often fewer than 10,000. This small population size makes them more vulnerable to extinction from threats like habitat loss, disease, and climate change.
- Restricted geographic range: Many rare species are found in only a small area, such as a particular mountain range, island, or type of habitat. This restricted range makes them more vulnerable to threats that impact that specific area.
- Specialized adaptations: Some rare species have unique adaptations that allow them to survive in specialized environments. These adaptations can make them more vulnerable to changes in their environment.
Here are some examples of rare species:
- The Sumatran Orangutan: This critically endangered ape is found only on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. There are only about 14,600 individuals left in the wild.
- The Amur Leopard: This beautiful big cat is found in the Russian Far East and northeastern China. There are only about 60 individuals left in the wild
- The Saola: This elusive antelope was only discovered in 1992 and is found in the Annamite Mountains of Vietnam and Laos. There are only about 25 individuals left in the wild
There are different categories for classifying the rarity of species, and they may include:
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Endangered Species: Species that are at significant risk of extinction in the near future. They face serious threats to their survival.
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Vulnerable Species: Species that are not currently endangered but are at risk of becoming endangered if their decline continues.
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Near Threatened Species: Species that are close to being classified as vulnerable but are not yet facing a significant risk of extinction.
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Critically Endangered Species: Species facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild.
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Data Deficient Species: Species for which there is insufficient information to assess their conservation status.
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Extinct in the Wild: Species that exist only in captivity or cultivation, with no remaining populations in their natural habitat.
The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 is a legislation in India that aims to protect the country's wildlife and biodiversity. It was enacted to address the escalating threats to wildlife due to poaching, habitat destruction, and other human-induced pressures. The act provides legal measures for the protection of specified plants, animals, and their habitats, and it establishes a framework for wildlife conservation and management.
Rare Species are Protected under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
Key features of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, include:
- The act categorizes species into various schedules, providing different levels of protection. Species listed in Schedule I and Part II of Schedule II receive the highest level of protection.
- The act strictly prohibits the hunting of specified animals, including those listed in Schedule I and Part II of Schedule II. It also outlines penalties for offenses related to hunting and poaching
- The act empowers the government to declare areas as wildlife sanctuaries or national parks for the conservation of wildlife. It defines the procedures for notifying and managing these protected areas.
- The act regulates the trade of wildlife and wildlife products. It prohibits the trade of certain animal species and imposes restrictions on the trade of others.
- The act prescribes penalties for offenses such as hunting, poaching, and illegal trade of wildlife. Penalties can include fines and imprisonment.
- The act allows for the establishment of Wildlife Advisory Boards at the national and state levels to advise the government on matters related to wildlife conservation.
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Previous Year Questions
1.According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals cannot be hunted by any person except under some provisions provided by law? (UPSC CSE 2017)
1. Gharial
2. Indian wild ass
3. Wild buffalo
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
A.1 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3
Answer (D)
2.With reference to Indian laws about wildlife protection, consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2022)
1. Wild animals are the sole property of the government.
2. When a wild animal is declared protected, such animal is entitled for equal protection whether it is found in protected areas or outside.
3. Apprehension of a protected wild animal becoming a danger to human life is sufficient ground for its capture or killing.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A.1 and 2
B.2 only
C.1 and 3
D.3 only
Answer (B)
3.Which of the following is a rare species as per International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)? (SSC CHSL 2022)
A.Gangetic dolphin
B.Blue sheep
C.Asiatic buffalo
D.Lion tailed macaque
Answer (C)
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