Q. What is the IUCN status of 'Borneo elephants', recently seen in news?
Answer:
Endangered
Notes: Recently, Borneo elephants were classified as 'Endangered' on the IUCN Red List. They are the smallest Asian elephant subspecies and the largest mammal on Borneo. Genetically distinct, they evolved separately around 300,000 years ago. Their habitat in floodplain areas faces threats from oil palm plantations, infrastructure projects, human settlements, and poaching. Borneo elephants primarily feed on roots, grasses, leaves, and crops. This classification underscores urgent conservation efforts to protect their dwindling populations.