Source: TH
Subject: Species in News
Context: A recent international study shows that rhino dehorning has reduced poaching by nearly 75–78% in African reserves, offering a cost-effective conservation tool.
About Rhinoceros (Rhino):
- What it is?
- The rhinoceros is a large, herbivorous mammal belonging to the family Rhinocerotidae.
- It is one of the oldest surviving megafauna, dating back millions of years.
- Habitat:
- Rhinos occupy diverse ecosystems depending on species:
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- Grasslands and savannahs
- Tropical and subtropical forests
- Swamps, riverine areas, and shrublands
- Types of rhinos (5 species):
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- White rhino (Ceratotherium simum): Africa
- Black rhino (Diceros bicornis): Africa
- Greater one-horned (Indian) rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis): India & Nepal
- Javan rhino (Rhinoceros sondaicus): Indonesia
- Sumatran rhino (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis): Indonesia
- Key characteristics:
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- Horn made of keratin, not bone (same protein as hair and nails)
- Herbivorous, feeding on grasses, leaves, shoots, and roots
- Poor eyesight but strong hearing and smell
- Semi-aquatic behaviour in some species (Indian rhino)
- Slow reproduction, making recovery difficult after population loss
- Conservation status:
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- Critically Endangered: Javan, Sumatran, Black rhino
- Vulnerable: Greater one-horned rhino
- Near Threatened: White rhino
- Significance:
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- Biodiversity value: Rhinos are keystone species, shaping grassland and forest ecosystems through grazing and seed dispersal.
- Ecological balance: Their feeding behaviour maintains habitat heterogeneity, supporting smaller species.
- Cultural and heritage value: The Indian rhino features in Assam’s natural heritage, especially Kaziranga National Park.
- Indicator of governance: Rhino conservation reflects state capacity, anti-poaching enforcement, and community participation.
- Global conservation symbol: Rhino protection is central to global efforts against illegal wildlife trade, alongside elephants and tigers.
