Context:
A 20-year study in South Africa revealed that the decline of Great White Sharks disrupted marine ecosystems.
Great White Shark:
- Largest known predatory fish in the world.
- Distribution – Temperate coastal waters, including theUSA, South Africa, Australia, and Japan.
- Hunts seals, dolphins, and fish.
- Ovoviviparous species – Embryos develop inside eggs within the mother’s body and hatch before birth.
- Ecological significance –
- Top Predator – Regulates populations of prey species
- Indicator Species – The health of Great White Sharks reflects marine ecosystem stability.
- IUCN Status – Vulnerable
Key Adaptations:
- Regional endothermy – Maintains a warmer body temperature than surrounding water.
- Extraordinary sense of smell
- Torpedo-shaped body that enhances speed and agility in water.
- Does not chew food, it swallows large chunks instead.
- Hunting Technique – Uses a surprise attack approach, ambushing prey from below at high speed.
Source: TOI
Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements in respect of Trade Related Analysis of Fauna and Flora in Commerce (TRAFFIC):
1. TRAFFIC is a bureau under United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
2. The mission of TRAFFIC is to ensure that trade in wild plants and animals is not a threat to the conservation of nature.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2016 Prelims]
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
Statement 2 is not correct:
TRAFFIC is a joint initiative by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF)