Survey adds 36 new species including 24 Western Ghats endemics to sanctuary records
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biodiversity & conservation· Prelims·
Biodiversity documentation and endemism: a key GS3 Environment and Ecology topic.
Why in news
The Forest and Wildlife department and Travancore Nature History Society (TNHS) conducted a survey across Chimmony, Peechi–Vazhani, and Chulannur Peafowl sanctuaries
Background
The four-day survey conducted from October 8 to 11 recorded 395 species of birds, butterflies, and odonates. The team identified tigers, leopards, Asian elephants, and gaur in the surveyed sanctuaries.
Facts for Prelims
- EnvironmentThe survey identified 24 species endemic to the Western Ghats.
- FactA total of 395 species of birds, butterflies, and odonates were recorded during the survey.
- PlaceThe survey covered Chimmony, Peechi–Vazhani, and Chulannur Peafowl sanctuaries.
- BodyThe survey was a joint effort by the Forest and Wildlife department and the Travancore Nature History Society (TNHS).
Prelims practice question
With reference to the biodiversity survey in the Western Ghats sanctuaries, consider the following statements:
- The survey identified 30 species endemic to the Western Ghats.
- The survey recorded a total of 395 species of birds, butterflies, and odonates.
- The survey was a joint effort between the Forest and Wildlife department and the Travancore Nature History Society.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (d) 2 and 3 only — Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The survey identified 24 species endemic to the Western Ghats.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of identifying endemic species in the Western Ghats for biodiversity conservation and ecological monitoring in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Data-driven conservation: Using species records to prioritize habitat protection for Western Ghats endemics
- Biodiversity monitoring: Role of civil society and government collaboration in documenting regional fauna
Keywords: Endemism · Biodiversity Conservation · Habitat Mapping · Species Documentation
More Environment & Ecology notes
- Thwaites glacier melting rapidly could add 1.2 inches to sea levels by 2100 · 17 October 2026
- Habitat fragmentation is primary threat to elephants, wildlife biologist P.S. Easa states · 17 October 2026
- CPCB deploys flying squads across 34 districts to prevent paddy stubble burning · 16 October 2026
- NGT issues notices to 14 authorities over hexavalent chromium groundwater contamination in Uttar Pradesh · 16 October 2026
- Northeast India's hoolock gibbon populations declined by 90% due to habitat fragmentation · 16 October 2026
- WMO forecasts strongest El Nino since 1950 as southwest monsoon records 759.4 mm rain · 15 October 2026
Something wrong, or something missing?
Spotted a mistake in a note, or want a topic, format or PDF that would help your preparation? Write to us. We read every mail and fix errors fast.
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.