Parambikulam Tiger Reserve inaugurates exhibition honoring plant declared extinct in the 1990s
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims·
Biodiversity conservation and species rediscovery: a relevant GS3 Environment and Ecology case study.
Why in news
The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve inaugurated a photography exhibition to honor the rediscovery of *Haplothismia exannulata*, a plant species declared extinct in the 1990s.
Background
The 'Haplothismia' exhibition features wildlife and landscapes and runs from October 2 to October 8, 2026. The plant *Haplothismia exannulata* was first collected in 1851 and was rediscovered 26 years ago by N. Sasidharan and P. Sujanapal.
Facts for Prelims
- EnvironmentHaplothismia exannulata: A plant species first collected in 1851 and declared extinct in the 1990s before being rediscovered.
- PlaceParambikulam Tiger Reserve: Location of the 'Haplothismia' photography exhibition.
- FactThe plant was rediscovered 26 years prior to the 2026 exhibition.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the plant species Haplothismia exannulata, consider the following statements:
- The plant was declared extinct in the 1990s.
- The species was first collected in the year 1851.
- The plant was rediscovered 10 years prior to the 2026 exhibition.
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 plant was rediscovered 26 years prior to the 2026 exhibition.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the importance of botanical biodiversity and the role of tiger reserves in conserving endangered flora and fauna in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Ecological restoration: Re-evaluating 'extinct' species to bolster local biodiversity and ecosystem resilience
- Conservation methodology: Integrating community-led rediscovery and public awareness through exhibition-based education
Keywords: Biodiversity conservation · Species rediscovery · Ecological significance · In-situ conservation · Botanical heritage
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.