Tiger Translocation for Genetic Diversity | 01 Nov 2024

Source: HT

Why in News? 

Recently, the Odisha government translocated a tigress named Jamuna from Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra to the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha. 

• Translocation was aimed at enhancing genetic diversity in Similipal, where there are concerns about inbreeding due to a small population. 

What are Key Facts About this Translocation? 

• Previous Translocation Attempts: In 2018, a tigress named Sundari was relocated to Satkosia Tiger Reserve, Odisha. 
  • The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) gives approval for the translocation project. 
• Translocation of Black Tigers:  
  • Population: The Odisha Tiger Estimation conducted in 2024 found a total 24 adult tigers in Similipal, with a notable presence of pseudo-melanistic tigers. 
    • STR is the only habitat where these black tigers are found in the wild. 
  • Inbreeding Concerns: The high number of pseudo-melanistic tigers (13 out of 24 adults) in Similipal raises concerns about inbreeding and lack of genetic flow, prompting the need for external genetic input. 
  • Future Initiatives: Plans are in place to establish a melanistic tiger safari in Similipal, which would be the first of its kind in the world.

What are the Key Facts About Similipal Tiger Reserve? 

• Location: Similipal tiger reserve and national park is located in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district. 
  • It was designated as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1973. 
  • In 2009, UNESCO included Simlipal National Park in its list of Biosphere Reserve. 
• Geography: Joranda and Barehipani waterfalls and Khairiburu and Meghashini peaks are located in Simlipal national park. 
  • Burhabalanga, Palpala Bandan, Salandi, Kahairi, and Deo rivers pass through it. 
  • It is named after the ‘Simul’ (Silk Cotton) tree. 
• Biodiversity: Forest type is primarily dominated by tropical moist deciduous forests. 
  • Mammals: Tigers, leopards, sambar deer, barking deer, gaurs, jungle cats, wild boars, four-horned antelopes, giant squirrels, and common langurs. 
  • Avian Species: Grey hornbills, Indian pied hornbills, and Malabar pied hornbills. 
  • Reptile: Mugger crocodiles inhabit Khairi and Deo Rivers. 
• Indigenous Population: It is inhabited by indigenous tribes like Kolha, Santhala, Bhumija, Bhatudi, Gondas, Khadia, Mankadia, and Sahara. 
  • The tribals worship sacred groves called Jharia. 

What are the Key Facts About Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve? 

• Location: It is situated in Maharashtra and is the oldest and largest national park in the state. 
  • Tadoba/Taru is the local deity revered by the tribal people in the area. 
  • Andhari is derived from the Andhari river which flows through the reserve. 
• Geography: It contains two primary lakes, Tadoba Lake and Kolsa Lake, along with the Tadoba River.  
• Biodiversity:  
  • Flora: Teak, semal, tendu, beheda, karaya gum, mahua madhuca, arjun, bamboo etc. 
  • Fauna: Tigers, Indian leopards, sloth bears, gaurs, nilgai, dholes, small Indian civets, sambars, spotted deer, barking deer, and chital.