UPSC Essentials Quiz on Environment and Geography: Option (b) Correct
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims·
Why in news
The desert rain frog (Breviceps macrops) was recently highlighted in a quiz regarding its conservation status and habitat in Namibia and South Africa.
Background
The desert rain frog (Breviceps macrops) is endemic to a narrow strip of coastal dunes in Namibia and South Africa. It spends most of its life burrowed beneath sand and is currently listed as 'Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List.
Facts for Prelims
- EnvironmentDesert rain frog (Breviceps macrops) is endemic to coastal dunes in Namibia and South Africa.
- EnvironmentThe desert rain frog is listed as 'Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List (not Critically Endangered).
- FactPopulation of the desert rain frog is projected to decline by approximately 20% over the next two decades.
- EnvironmentPrimary threats to the desert rain frog include habitat loss due to diamond mining.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the impact of extractive industries like diamond mining on the biodiversity of coastal dune ecosystems and suggest measures for their conservation.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Habitat fragmentation: Destruction of specialized coastal dune ecosystems by large-scale diamond mining operations.
- Endemism vulnerability: High risk of extinction for species with restricted geographic ranges like the desert rain frog.
- Policy trade-offs: Balancing economic gains from mineral extraction with the preservation of unique biodiversity hotspots.
Keywords: Endemism · IUCN Red List · Habitat Fragmentation · Biodiversity Conservation · Extractive Industries
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