Rare Albino Toda Buffalo Calf Spotted, Urging Conservation Efforts
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims·
Biodiversity and genetic diversity conservation: a GS3 and Environment & Ecology case study.
Why in news
Researchers documented a suspected case of albinism in a Toda buffalo calf, highlighting the urgent need for genetic and phenotypic diversity documentation to conserve the endangered breed.
Background
The Toda buffalo is an endangered breed endemic to The Nilgiris. Its population has declined from over 2,100 individuals to less than a thousand since the mid-19th century.
Facts for Prelims
- EnvironmentToda buffalo: An endangered breed endemic to The Nilgiris
- PlaceSholur village: Located near Udhagamandalam where the albino calf was observed
Prelims practice question
With reference to the Toda buffalo, consider the following statements:
- The albino calf was observed in Sholur village near Udhagamandalam.
- The Toda buffalo is an endangered breed endemic to The Nilgiris.
- The population of the breed has declined to more than two thousand individuals since the mid-19th century.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)1 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: The population declined to less than a thousand individuals.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the importance of genetic diversity and systematic documentation in the conservation of endangered indigenous livestock breeds in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Genetic erosion: Risk of inbreeding depression in small, isolated populations of endemic breeds
- Conservation policy: Lack of systematic phenotypic documentation for indigenous livestock varieties
- Biodiversity loss: Impact of population decline on the cultural and ecological landscape of the Nilgiris
Keywords: Genetic diversity · Endangered species · Phenotypic variation · In-situ conservation · Biodiversity documentation
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