14th November 2024 (10 Topics)

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Huge Drop in African Elephants

Context

A recent study on the population of African elephants has made headlines due to the alarming decline in their numbers over the past five decades. The study, described as the most comprehensive of its kind, sheds light on the factors contributing to this decline, including illegal hunting (poaching) and the loss of natural habitats due to agricultural expansion.

Key Findings of the Study

Savanna elephants (the more common species) saw a 70% population decline on average.
Forest elephants experienced an even steeper decline, with a 90% decrease in their populations.
There was a 77% population decrease on average at the various surveyed sites, spanning both species.
Responsible factor:
Poaching: Poaching, primarily for ivory tusks, has had a particularly devastating effect on forest elephants. The ivory trade is driven mainly by demand in Asia, especially China.
Habitat Loss: The primary cause of habitat loss is agricultural expansion, which has significantly reduced the natural areas where elephants live.

Fact Box: African Elephant Species

African elephants are the largest land animals on Earth, with males weighing up to 6,000 kilograms (13,200 lbs) and reaching heights of 3-4 meters at the shoulder.
Two Species of African Elephants:
- Savanna Elephants (Loxodonta africana): These are the larger of the two species and are found in savanna and forest ecosystems across much of sub-Saharan Africa. They are more widely distributed and have a population that is more resilient to conservation efforts.
- Forest Elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis): Smaller and with more rounded ears, forest elephants are found in tropical forests in central and West Africa. They are more endangered due to higher poaching pressures and habitat destruction.
Elephants are highly social animals, living in family groups led by a matriarch. They are known for their complex communication and advanced problem-solving abilities.
They have an excellent memory, which is essential for survival in their large territories and helps them remember locations of water sources and migration paths.
IUCN Conservation Status:
- African Forest Elephant: Critically Endangered
- African Savanna Elephant: Endangered

Elephants in India

India harbors the world's largest extant population of the endangered Asian elephant (Elephas maximus).
The Asian elephant includes three subspecies:
- Indian, or mainland (E. maximus indicus)
- Sumatran (E. maximus sumatranus)
- Sri Lankan (E. maximus maximus)
IUCN Status: Endangered
African elephants have much larger ears, which are used to dissipate body heat.
Elephants are keystone species as well as the Natural Heritage Animal of India.
India has the largest number of wild Asian Elephants. Karnataka has the highest elephant population in India.
In India, 33 elephant reserves have been established in 14 states that are major elephant habitats to promote conservation. These areas are under protection with the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, Indian Forest Act, 1927 and other local State Acts.

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GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

14th November 2024 (10 Topics)

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Huge Drop in African Elephants

Key Findings of the Study

Fact Box: African Elephant Species

Elephants in India

Still Have Questions?

GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

Huge Drop in African Elephants

Key Findings of the Study

Fact Box: African Elephant Species

Elephants in India

Still Have Questions?

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