Crab in Silent Valley found displaying both male and female biological traits
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biotechnology & health research· Prelims·
Why in news
Researchers discovered a rare case of gynandromorphism in the *Vela carli* crab in Silent Valley National Park, where specimens displayed both male and female biological traits.
Background
Three specimens of the *Vela carli* crab were found in tree holes within Silent Valley National Park. The crab is endemic to the Central Western Ghats and was studied by the Centre for Conservation Ecology, MES Mampad College, and the Zoological Survey of India.
Facts for Prelims
- EnvironmentVela carli: A freshwater crab species endemic to the Central Western Ghats.
- PlaceSilent Valley National Park: Location of the gynandromorphism discovery.
- S&TGynandromorphism: A biological phenomenon where an organism displays both male and female characteristics on the same body.
- BodyZoological Survey of India: One of the bodies involved in the research.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how extreme environmental pressures can drive unique biological adaptations and reproductive strategies in endemic species like the *Vela carli* crab.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Evolutionary adaptation: Survival mechanisms for reproduction in isolated habitats
- Biodiversity conservation: Importance of protecting endemic species in the Western Ghats
Keywords: Gynandromorphism · Endemic species · Evolutionary adaptation · Biodiversity conservation · Western Ghats
More Science & Technology notes
- Astronomers are protesting SpaceX's 'Reflect Orbital' mirror project and plans for one million AI-powered satellites due to concerns over light pollution and interference with astronomical observations · 23 March 2026
- UN issues new climate warning as El Niño looms · 23 March 2026
- Scientists developed 'cyborg cockroaches' equipped with electronic backpacks to navigate hazardous environments and detect pipeline leaks · 22 March 2026
- EarthDay.org research highlights that tree planting alone is insufficient to combat global warming due to land constraints and survival rates · 22 March 2026
- World Water Day: Let us reaffirm our commitment to conserve every drop of water, says PM Modi · 22 March 2026
- NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) warned of a potential 'satellite apocalypse' caused by AI-powered cyberattacks on vulnerable satellite systems · 21 March 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.