Context:
Odisha Forest Department has arrested 4 poachers belonging to the Lodha tribe for the illegal hunting of a rare melanistic tiger in Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), Odisha.
Melanistic Tiger:
- Melanism is a genetic condition where animals produce more melanin, leading to darker or black skin, fur, or feathers.
- Melanin – A natural substance that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes.
- Royal Bengal Tigers of STR have a unique genetic trait with higher melanin levels
- Other Colour Variations in Tigers –
- Orange with Black or Brown Stripes: Most common and well-known coloration, seen in tigers like the Royal Bengal Tiger.
- White Tigers: Due to a genetic mutation called leucism, which reduces pigmentation, resulting in pale-colored skin, fur, or scales.
- Golden Tigers: Caused by a recessive gene called “wideband,” which reduces melanin production during hair growth; observed in Kaziranga National Park.
Lodha Tribe:
- Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) living in Mayurbhanj and Cuttack, Odisha
- Language: Kudumali, Odia.
- Classified under the Criminal Tribes Act by the British
- Occupation: Traditionally hunter-gatherers and tussar cocoon collectors
Source: TOI
Previous Year Question
Consider the following pairs:
National Park – River flowing through Park
1. Corbett National Park: Ganga
2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas
3. Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2013 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) None
Answer: (d)