Write short note on Indian elephant and Royal Bengal Tiger Related: N...
The Indian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) is one of three recognized subspecies of the Asian elephant and native to mainland Asia.
Since 1986, the Asian elephant has been listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List as the wild population has declined by at least 50% since the 1940s to 1930s, i.e. three elephant generations. The Asian elephant is threatened by habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation.
The Bengal tiger is a Panthera tigris tigris population in the Indian subcontinent. It is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List since 2008, and was estimated at comprising fewer than 2,500 individuals by 2011. It is threatened by poaching, loss and fragmentation of habitat. None of the Tiger Conservation Landscapes within its range is considered large enough to support an effective population of more than 250 adult individuals.India's tiger population was estimated at 1,706–1,909 individuals in 2010. By 2014, the population had reputedly increased to an estimated 2,226 individuals. Around 440 tigers are estimated in Bangladesh, 163–253 tigers in Nepal and 103 tigers in Bhutan.
This question is part of UPSC exam. View all Class 6 courses
Write short note on Indian elephant and Royal Bengal Tiger Related: N...
Indian Elephant:
The Indian elephant, scientifically known as Elephas maximus indicus, is one of the three subspecies of the Asian elephant. It is found primarily in mainland Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. They are highly revered in Indian culture and are considered a symbol of wisdom, power, and divinity.
Physical Characteristics:
- Indian elephants are the largest land animals in Asia, with males reaching a height of about 10-11 feet and weighing up to 5,000 kg. Females are smaller in size.
- They have a distinctively thick and wrinkled gray skin, which helps in retaining moisture and protecting them from the sun.
- Indian elephants have two long and curved ivory tusks, which are actually elongated incisor teeth. These tusks are used for defense, digging, and as a means of communication.
- Their large, fan-shaped ears not only help in cooling their body temperature but also enhance their hearing abilities.
- They have a prehensile trunk, which is a fusion of the nose and upper lip. The trunk is used for breathing, smelling, touching, grasping objects, and even as a snorkel while swimming.
Habitat and Diet:
- Indian elephants inhabit a range of habitats, including tropical rainforests, grasslands, and scrublands. They are also found in the vicinity of human settlements and agricultural fields.
- They are herbivorous animals and primarily feed on grasses, leaves, bark, fruits, and roots. An adult elephant can consume up to 150 kg of food in a day.
Conservation Status:
- Indian elephants are listed as "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
- The main threats to their survival include habitat loss due to deforestation, fragmentation of their habitats, poaching for ivory, and human-wildlife conflict.
- Efforts are being made by the government and various organizations to protect and conserve the Indian elephant. Protected areas and national parks have been established to provide them with a safe habitat.
Royal Bengal Tiger:
The Royal Bengal tiger, scientifically known as Panthera tigris tigris, is the national animal of India and one of the most iconic and majestic creatures on Earth. It is primarily found in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Physical Characteristics:
- Royal Bengal tigers are the largest big cat species, with males weighing up to 220-260 kg and measuring about 9-10 feet in length, excluding the tail. Females are slightly smaller in size.
- They have a characteristic orange coat with black stripes, which act as a camouflage in their natural habitat.
- The powerful forelimbs and sharp claws enable them to hunt and bring down large prey.
- They have excellent eyesight and hearing abilities, which aid in hunting and sensing potential threats.
Habitat and Diet:
- Royal Bengal tigers inhabit diverse habitats, including tropical rainforests, mangroves, grasslands, and even the snowy mountains of the Himalayas.
- They are apex predators and primarily feed on large ungulates such as deer, wild boars, and buffalo. They are also known to prey on smaller animals like monkeys, birds, and reptiles.
Conservation Status:
- Royal Bengal tigers are listed