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Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 14 January 2025 | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

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Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have made an exciting discovery by identifying a new species of pangolin, named the Indo-Burmese pangolin (Manis indo-burmanica).

This species diverged from the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) approximately 3.4 million years ago, shedding light on the evolutionary diversity of pangolins in the region. 

The announcement was made on January 10, 2025, following a comprehensive study led by Mukesh Thakur at ZSI.

Utilising advanced genomic tools to analyze mitochondrial genomes, the research highlights how dramatic geo-climatic changes in the Indo-Burmese region—a biodiversity hotspot—have influenced the evolution of this species.

"This discovery is a testament to the power of modern genetic tools in uncovering hidden diversity," said Thakur. "The Indo-Burmese pangolin not only enriches our understanding of Asian pangolins but also emphasizes the need for region-specific conservation efforts."

The research team included Lenrik Konchok Wangmo, a PhD scholar at the University of Calcutta, who played a crucial role in identifying paratype specimens from Arunachal Pradesh.  

Wangmo expressed pride in contributing to this significant discovery, noting that it underscores the importance of protecting pangolin habitats from threats such as poaching and habitat degradation.

Genetic analysis confirmed that the Indo-Burmese pangolin diverged during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs, periods marked by significant climatic and geological shifts. The species is primarily found in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, with potential ranges extending into Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. 

The ZSI's findings highlight the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies to protect this newly identified species and its habitat.

As pangolins face increasing threats globally, understanding their evolutionary history becomes crucial for ensuring their survival.

The discovery of Manis indo-burmanica not only adds to the rich tapestry of biodiversity but also emphasizes the critical role of scientific research in wildlife conservation.

[Excerpt from India Today"Team from Zoological Survey of India discovers new pangolin species"Dated 14/01/25]

Q1: From which pangolin species did Manis indoburmanica diverge 3.4 million years ago?
(a) Manis crassicaudata
(b) Manis tricuspis
(c) Manis pentadactyla
(d) Manis temminckii

Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 14 January 2025 | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT  View Answer
Ans: (c)
Sol: Manis indoburmanica diverged from the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) approximately 3.4 million years ago, as revealed through genomic studies.
Q2: What is the altitude range at which the Indo-Burmese pangolin is typically found?
(a) 0–500 meters
(b) 180–1830 meters
(c) 2000–3000 meters
(d) 1000–1500 meters
Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 14 January 2025 | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT  View Answer
Ans: (b)
Sol: The Indo-Burmese pangolin inhabits areas between 180 and 1830 meters above sea level, as noted in the study.
Q3: Which journal published the findings about Manis indoburmanica?
(a) Nature
(b) Mammalian Biology
(c) Journal of Wildlife Research
(d) Ecology and Evolution
Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 14 January 2025 | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT  View Answer
Ans: (b)
Sol: The discovery of the Indo-Burmese pangolin was published in the journal Mammalian Biology, highlighting its importance in biodiversity research.
Q4: What percentage genetic difference does Manis indoburmanica have compared to the Chinese pangolin?
(a) 2.5%
(b) 3.8%
(c) 5.0%
(d) 4.2%
Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 14 January 2025 | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT  View Answer
Ans: (b)
Sol: The study found that Manis indoburmanica differs genetically from the Chinese pangolin by 3.8%, confirming it as a distinct species.
Q5: Why are pangolins considered unique among mammals?
(a) They have wings for gliding.
(b) They are the only mammals with protective keratin scales.
(c) They can survive underwater.
(d) They are omnivorous with a diverse diet.
Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 14 January 2025 | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT  View Answer
Ans: (b)
Sol: Pangolins are the only mammals with large protective keratin scales, which they use as a defense mechanism by rolling into a ball when threatened.
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FAQs on Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 14 January 2025 - Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT

1. What are the key highlights of the current affairs from January 14, 2025?
Ans. The key highlights include significant political developments, economic initiatives, and notable international relations events that occurred around this date. Important legislative changes and their implications for various sectors were also discussed.
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Ans. The current affairs on this date may have led to shifts in trade policies, investment flows, and economic collaborations among countries, thereby influencing global economic stability and growth prospects.
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