Study Guide · Biology

What is Red Data Book?

The Red Data Book (officially called the IUCN Red List) is a comprehensive inventory of the conservation status of animal, plant, and fungus species worldwide. It is maintained by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

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What is the Red Data Book?

Answer

The Red Data Book (IUCN Red List) is a comprehensive record of the conservation status of plant and animal species, identifying those threatened with extinction.

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Key Facts

Maintained by: IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature).

Purpose: Track and communicate extinction risk of species.

Most Serious Category: Critically Endangered (CR).

India Specific: Great Indian Bustard, Gharial are critically endangered.

Purpose

The Red Data Book identifies species that are threatened with extinction so governments and conservationists can prioritize protection efforts. If a species is listed, countries are legally and morally pressured to take action.

IUCN Categories

Species are classified into these categories:

Extinct (EX): No living individuals remain. (e.g., Dodo Bird)
Extinct in the Wild (EW): Survives only in captivity.
Critically Endangered (CR): Extremely high risk of extinction. (e.g., Sumatran Orangutan)
Endangered (EN): High risk. (e.g., Bengal Tiger)
Vulnerable (VU): High risk in medium term. (e.g., Polar Bear)
Near Threatened (NT)
Least Concern (LC): Widespread and common.

Indian Species on Red List

Several Indian species are listed as Endangered or Critically Endangered, including the Great Indian Bustard, Gharial, and Ganges River Dolphin.

Questions and Answers

What is the Red Data Book?+

The Red Data Book (IUCN Red List) is a comprehensive record of the conservation status of plant and animal species, identifying those threatened with extinction.

Who maintains the Red Data Book?+

The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) maintains and updates the Red List.

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