FAUNA: SITUATION IN INDIA
The Red Data Book is an essential resource in conservation biology, providing a comprehensive list of species considered endangered or threatened with extinction. It serves as a crucial reference guide for scientists, policymakers, and conservationists, helping to prioritize and guide conservation efforts. The name "Red Data Book" originates from its original publication colour, symbolizing the urgency and critical status of the species listed.
First Compilation: The first Red Data Book was compiled by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 1964. Since its inception, it has been continuously updated and expanded to reflect changes in the conservation status of species.
Current Version: The latest version, known as the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, is widely recognized as the authoritative source of information on the conservation status of species. It is used globally by governments, organizations, and individuals to guide conservation and management efforts.
|
Category |
Description |
|
Extinct (EX) |
No known individuals remaining. |
|
Extinct in the Wild (EW) |
Known only to survive in cultivation, in captivity, or as a naturalized population well outside the past range. |
|
Critically Endangered (CR) |
Extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. |
|
Endangered (EN) |
High risk of extinction in the wild. |
|
Vulnerable (VU) |
High risk of endangerment in the wild. |
|
Near Threatened (NT) |
Likely to become endangered in the near future. |
|
Least Concern (LC) |
Lowest risk. Does not qualify for a higher risk category. Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category. |
|
Data Deficient (DD) |
Not enough data to make an assessment of its risk of extinction. |
|
Not Evaluated (NE) |
Has not yet been evaluated against the criteria. |
1.Conservation Planning: The IUCN Red List serves as a critical tool for conservation planning and prioritization. By identifying species at risk, it helps allocate resources and efforts where they are most needed.
2.Policy Formulation: Policymakers use the Red List to develop and implement conservation policies and legislation aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats.