Environment & Biodiversity Current Affairs MCQs

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Researchers have discovered three new species of rove beetles in Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting the region’s rich and largely unexplored biodiversity. The species—Megalopsilus arunachalensis, Megalopsilus mithun, and Megalopsilus microglossus—belong to the genus Megalopsilus and were reported in the journal Soil Organisms. The discovery was made through a collaboration between Rajiv Gandhi University and the University of Tübingen. These beetles were found in forest ecosystems such as decaying wood and moist leaf litter, which are crucial for maintaining ecological balance.

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International Union for Conservation of Nature has upgraded the Emperor Penguin and Antarctic Fur Seal to the Endangered category due to climate change impacts. Climate change in Antarctica is causing sea-ice loss, threatening emperor penguins that depend on stable “fast ice” for breeding and moulting. Emperor penguin populations have declined significantly, with projections indicating up to 50% reduction by the 2080s. Antarctic fur seal populations have dropped by over 50% since 1999 due to reduced food availability as krill shifts deeper warming oceans.

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The Indravati Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh is reopening for tourism, marking a shift from conflict to conservation and eco-tourism. The reserve, along with Bhairamgarh and Pamed Wildlife Sanctuaries, forms the larger Indravati landscape. It has ecological connectivity with tiger reserves like Kawal Tiger Reserve, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, and Kanha Tiger Reserve. The Indravati River forms its northern and western boundary and an interstate border with Maharashtra.

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The Painted Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis pictus) is a rare, colourful terrestrial reptile recently spotted in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. It belongs to the genus Eublepharis under the family Eublepharidae, distributed across Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The species was scientifically described in 2022 from the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. The Brahmani River acts as a geographical barrier separating it from the East Indian Leopard Gecko. It prefers dry evergreen forests with scrub and meadow habitats.

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Scientists discovered two new jumping spider species—Mogrus shushka and Mogrus pune—belonging to the genus Mogrus, found in arid and urban ecosystems. Mogrus shushka was identified in Desert National Park, adapted to extreme heat, low humidity, and sandy terrain of the Thar Desert. Its name is derived from the Sanskrit word “shushka,” meaning dry, reflecting its habitat conditions. Mogrus pune was discovered in Alfa Laval Biodiversity Park and named after Pune city. These spiders belong to jumping spiders (family Salticidae), known for keen vision and agile hunting. The discovery highlights India’s biodiversity richness across both desert ecosystems and urban green spaces.

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Sugor Tso is a high-altitude dual lake system located in the Upper Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh, within the Eastern Himalayan region. It consists of Upper Sugor Tso and Sugor Tso, which are hydrologically connected and fed by the Sugor stream. The lake lies in the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, known for rich flora, fauna, and fragile ecosystems. It is formed in natural mountain depressions, receiving water from streams, rainfall, and snowmelt. Due to its remote location and difficult terrain, access is limited, which has helped preserve its natural condition.

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Recently, the forest department in Prayagraj launched the “Dolphin Friends” volunteer network to conserve the endangered Ganges river dolphin. It is a community-based initiative involving volunteers to monitor dolphin movement, breeding, and habitat conditions. The aim is to protect dolphins during sensitive periods, especially the monsoon breeding season. It promotes public awareness and local participation in conservation efforts. The initiative supports long-term protection of river ecosystems through regular monitoring and community involvement.

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Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary has come into focus due to concerns that the proposed Pranahita-Chevella barrage on the Pranahita River may affect the sanctuary area. Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra. The sanctuary lies near the confluence of the Wardha River and Wainganga River. The Pranahita River flows along its western boundary. Seasonal flooding and water bodies such as Murgikunta, Raikonta, and Komatkunta tanks support the sanctuary’s biodiversity. The sanctuary is also inhabited by the indigenous Gond tribal community.

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A rare sighting of the Red-necked Falcon was recently recorded in Kawal Tiger Reserve. Scientifically known as Falco chicquera, it is a medium-sized bird of prey found in India and parts of Africa. The species is recognised by its reddish-brown crown and neck, bluish-grey upperparts, and agile flight. It inhabits open woodlands, dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and agricultural landscapes. The falcon is known for hunting in pairs, especially during dawn and dusk. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), it is classified as Near Threatened.

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The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) recovered live Red Sand Boa snakes from an illegal wildlife trade operation in Warangal. Scientifically known as Eryx johnii, the Red Sand Boa is a non-venomous snake found in dry regions of the Indian subcontinent. The species is endemic to India, Pakistan, and Iran. It prefers sandy and loose soil habitats and spends most of its time underground. The snake is known for its thick reddish-brown body and “double-headed” appearance due to its tail shape. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, it is classified as Near Threatened.