Forest ServicesEnvironment & Ecology
Species Conservation
Welcome to the Species Conservation study hub, a critical domain within your UPSC Environment & Ecology preparation. Species Conservation refers to the practice of protecting wild animal and plant species and their habitats. It encompasses
32 articles in this topic
Articles on Species Conservation
Cost of Dealing with Invasive Species
Context According to a recent study published in Nature Ecology Evolution, invasive non-native plants and animals have inflicted more than $2.2 trillion in damages worldwide since 1960, and found that the true costs may be 16 times higher than previously estimated. Common invasive species in India Among the most costly to manage are Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) and common lantana (Lantana camara). In India, the MoEFCC recognizes over 154 invasive faunal species, spanning terrestrial,
Coral Cover in Lakshadweep Saw a 50% Reduction: Study
Context A study revealed that corals in the Lakshadweep archipelago have declined to half of what they were in 1998. What are Corals? Corals are invertebrates that belong to a large group of animals called Cnidaria.
Kerala: As India’s Top Biodiversity Discovery Hotspot
Context Kerala has claimed the top spot as the country’s leading state for new faunal discoveries, in a record-breaking year for India’s biodiversity documentation. Other Notable Discoveries A Snake Species from Himachal Pradesh named Anguiculus Dicaprioi, honoring actor and environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio for his advocacy on climate and biodiversity issues. Other Herpetological highlights include two new genera; 37 reptilian species; and Five amphibians, including one representing a new genu
Scientists Find Pheromone that Causes Locusts to Swarm
Context Researchers have shown that it’s possible to manipulate pheromones released by locusts to prevent them from swarming or engaging in group behaviour that leads to the feeding frenzy. About Locust swarms have historically caused massive damage to agriculture across regions. They collect in large swarms and eat through thousands of hectares of crops in a matter of days.
50 Years of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)
In News The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) marks 50 years since it entered into force. Significance CITES was the first global agreement to address wildlife trade at an international level, providing a framework for cooperation to prevent over-exploitation and extinction due to trade.
International Day for Biodiversity 2025
Context The International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated every year on 22 May. Background The IDB commemorates the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on 22 May 1992 during the Rio Earth Summit. The day creates awareness among the citizens and stakeholders on the importance and need for the conservation of biological diversity.
Saving Traditional Varieties of Seeds
In Context The traditional seeds are rapidly disappearing after the adoption of the green revolution and modern agricultural policies. What are Traditional Seeds? Traditional seeds, also known as indigenous or heirloom seeds, are naturally evolved and locally adapted over generations.
Mangrove Forest Cover Increase
Tamil Nadu’s mangrove forest cover has nearly doubled from 4,500 ha in 2021 to 9,039 ha in 2024, due to new plantations and preservation of existing mangroves.
Seagrass Conservation Key to Global Biodiversity
A recent review published in Nature Reviews Earth Environment highlights declining status of seagrass worldwide due to human activities at a rate of 1-2% per year.
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
Introduction The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is an international legally binding treaty aimed at promoting sustainable development while ensuring the conservation of biological...
Global Efforts to Save Endangered Vaquita Porpoise
The Vaquita Porpoise, the world's most endangered marine mammal, faces extinction with fewer than 10 individuals remaining. Its decline is primarily due to illegal gillnet fishing for totoaba fish in the Gulf of California.
4th October 2024
Odisha's leopard population increased by 22% to 696 in 2024, though still below 2018 levels. This report is crucial for UPSC Environment and Conservation topics.