Irwin's Wolf Snake Discovered in Great Nicobar
Why focus: Endemic species in Great Nicobar (a highly tested geography)—GS3 Environment, sets up habitat and venomous/non-venomous traps.
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
- ▶
Taxonomic Classification: BEFORE, this specific black wolf snake was completely overlooked by science. NOW, it is formally recognized as a distinct endemic species (Lycodon irwini) characterized by its uniformly glossy black body and higher scale counts compared to its relatives.
- ▶
Conservation Status: BEFORE, the population was unassessed because it was unknown to science. NOW, researchers have formally recommended an 'Endangered' status under IUCN criteria due to having only four known records and a highly vulnerable, restricted island habitat.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
With Reference ToWith reference to the newly discovered Irwin's wolf snake (Lycodon irwini), consider the following statements: 1. It is a highly venomous reptile endemic to the Western Ghats. 2. Researchers have recommended classifying it as 'Endangered' under the IUCN Red List due to its highly restricted habitat. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?