Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 15 January 2025 | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

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Scientists of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have identified a new species: the Indo-Burmese pangolin (Manis indoburmanica). This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary diversity of pangolins — this species diverged from the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) approximately 3.4 million years ago.
The study, led by Dr Mukesh Thakur of the ZSI, used cutting-edge genomic tools to analyse mitochondrial genomes. “This discovery is a testament to the power of modern genetic tools in uncovering hidden diversity,” said Dr Thakur. “The Indo-Burmese pangolin not only enriches our understanding of Asian pangolins but also emphasises the need for region-specific conservation efforts.”
The species’ development was likely influenced by dramatic geo-climatic changes in the Indo-Burma region, recognized as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
Lenrik Konchok Wangmo, a PhD scholar at the University of Calcutta, was a key contributor to this research. Wangmo was vital in identifying the holotype and paratype specimens from Arunachal Pradesh. “It is a privilege to contribute to such an important discovery,” Wangmo said. “This species adds a new dimension to pangolin conservation, highlighting the importance of protecting their habitats from threats like poaching and habitat degradation.”
The species is believed to have evolved in isolation during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs, influenced by climatic and geological shifts. Its current distribution spans parts of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, and it possibly extends to Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar.
“Pangolins are among the most heavily trafficked mammals globally,” said Dr Thakur. “Recognizing this species as distinct highlights its vulnerability and the pressing need for collaborative conservation measures across its range.” Dr Dhriti Banerjee, Director of ZSI, lauded the team’s efforts, stating, “This remarkable finding demonstrates the critical role of scientific research in uncovering biodiversity and informing conservation action. Protecting the Indo-Burmese pangolin is essential to safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Indo-Burma region.”
[Excerpt from Indian Express "Discovery of New Indo-Burmese Pangolin Species" Dated 15/01/25]

Q1: What is the newly discovered pangolin species named?
(a) Manis assamica
(b) Manis indoburmanica
(c) Manis pentadactyla
(d) Manis africana

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Q2: How long ago did Manis indoburmanica diverge from the Chinese pangolin?
(a) 1.5 million years ago
(b) 2.7 million years ago
(c) 3.4 million years ago
(d) 4.2 million years ago

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Q3: What method did scientists use to identify the Indo-Burmese pangolin as a distinct species?
(a) Observational studies in the wild
(b) Advanced genomic tools to analyse mitochondrial genomes
(c) Morphological comparisons with other pangolins
(d) Radiocarbon dating of fossils

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Q4: Where is the Indo-Burmese pangolin primarily found?
(a) Western Ghats and Sri Lanka
(b) Arunachal Pradesh and Assam
(c) Himachal Pradesh and Nepal
(d) Central India and Myanmar

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Q5: What feature makes pangolins unique among mammals?
(a) They are herbivorous and live in trees.
(b) They have large protective scales made of keratin.
(c) They produce venom to ward off predators.
(d) They are the only mammals that can fly.

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