Consider the following fauna of India:
- Gharial
- Leatherback turtle
- Swamp deer
Which of the above is/are endangered?
Smart Elimination
If one species has had a good recovery story → it is usually NOT endangered
Reptiles & marine species are usually under more threat → higher chance of being Endangered/Critically Endangered
Large herbivores protected in reserves → often Vulnerable/Least Concern → eliminate
Potential Trap
Knowing precise IUCN status is tricky.
Answer Key & Explanation
Answer: CThe correct answer is Option A.
Analysis (Status during 2013's context):
- Gharial: Critically Endangered. (Qualifies as endangered). (Correct)
- Leatherback Turtle: Vulnerable (Global), but critically threatened by habitat loss in India (Andamans). Often categorized under endangered protection lists (Schedule I). (Correct)
- Swamp Deer (Barasingha): Vulnerable. (Incorrect - latest update)
The UPSC accepted 1, 2, and 3 (C) as the official answer, implying a broad definition of 'endangered' covering Threatened species (CR, EN, VU) under IUCN or Schedule I of WPA, 1972.
Value Addition
- Gharial: Found in Chambal River.
- Swamp Deer: State animal of MP (Hard ground) and UP.
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Foundational question based on core concepts.