Q. The "Red Data Books" published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) contain lists of
- Endemic plant and animal species present in the biodiversity hotspots.
- Threatened plant and animal species.
- Protected sites for conservation of nature and natural resources in various countries.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below : (UPSC Prelims 2011)
Answer:
2 only
Notes: The correct answer is
2 only. The IUCN Red List (commonly known as the Red Data Book) is the world's most comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of biological species.
- Threatened Species (Statement 2 is Correct): The primary purpose of the Red Data Book is to identify and document species facing a high risk of global extinction. It categorizes these species based on specific criteria into groups such as Extinct, Critically Endangered, Endangered, and Vulnerable.
- Endemic Species (Statement 1 is Incorrect): While many species in the Red Data Book may be endemic (found only in a specific area), the book is not a list of "all endemic species in hotspots." It specifically focuses on the risk of extinction, regardless of whether the species is endemic or widely distributed.
- Protected Sites (Statement 3 is Incorrect): The Red Data Book tracks species, not geographical sites or protected areas. Information regarding protected sites (like National Parks or Sanctuaries) is generally managed under different frameworks, such as the World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA) or IUCN's "Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas."