The golden langur (Trachypithecus geei) is an endangered primate species renowned for its unique golden fur. This species primarily resides in the Manas Biosphere Reserve and various fragmented forests in western Assam, India, making it a significant part of the region's biodiversity.
Recent surveys estimate that there are approximately 7,396 golden langurs in India. This figure highlights the ongoing efforts to monitor and conserve this endangered species.
The population survey was conducted by a collaboration of organizations, including the Primate Research Centre NE India (PRCNE), the Assam Forest Department, the Bodoland Territorial Council, the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), and Conservation Himalayas.
The survey utilized the block count method, which is recognized for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for assessing arboreal and small group-living primates like the golden langur.
For thorough assessment, the golden langur habitat was segmented into 51 counting blocks, each overlaid with 50-hectare grid cells. This division allowed for a detailed analysis of the langur population.
The survey recorded a total of 7,720 individuals across 706 groups, with 31 identified as lone or floating males. The estimated minimum population size was confirmed to be 7,396 individuals, encompassing both bisexual and male bands, alongside the lone males.
The golden langur population is categorized into two main sub-populations: the northern extended population, estimated at 5,566 individuals, which stretches from the Sankosh River to the Manas River up to the India-Bhutan border, and the southern fragments, which house an estimated 1,830 langurs.
The recent estimate of 7,396 individuals indicates a population increase from the 6,000 golden langurs recorded during the 2008-09 survey, reflecting positive trends in conservation efforts.
Golden langurs encounter significant challenges due to habitat fragmentation, particularly the lack of non-breeding all-male bands. These issues are worsened by anthropogenic interactions, threatening their survival.
The survey emphasizes the necessity for creating corridor linkages among fragmented habitats through plantations and canopy bridges. These measures aim to mitigate potential threats and promote the long-term survival of golden langurs.
Q1. What is the significance of the golden langur in Assam's ecosystem?
Answer: The golden langur plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in Assam's forests by aiding in seed dispersal and contributing to the biodiversity of the region.
Q2. Why is the golden langur classified as endangered?
Answer: The golden langur is classified as endangered due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflicts, which threaten its population and survival.
Q3. How can people support golden langur conservation efforts?
Answer: Individuals can support conservation efforts by promoting awareness, participating in wildlife protection programs, and advocating for sustainable practices in their communities.
Q4. What role do wildlife corridors play in conservation?
Answer: Wildlife corridors facilitate safe movement between fragmented habitats, allowing species like the golden langur to access resources, mate, and thrive, thereby enhancing genetic diversity.
Q5. Are there any specific governmental initiatives for golden langur conservation?
Answer: Yes, governmental initiatives include habitat restoration projects, protected area management, and collaboration with local communities to ensure the conservation of golden langurs and their habitats.
Question 1: What is the scientific name of the golden langur?
A) Macaca mulatta
B) Trachypithecus geei
C) Semnopithecus entellus
D) Presbytis entellus
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which organization conducted the recent golden langur population survey?
A) Wildlife Institute of India
B) Assam Forest Department
C) Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education
D) National Biodiversity Authority
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: How many counting blocks were used in the golden langur survey?
A) 25
B) 30
C) 51
D) 70
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What is one major threat to golden langurs?
A) Climate change
B) Habitat fragmentation
C) Invasive species
D) Overhunting
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is the estimated population of the northern golden langur sub-population?
A) 1,830
B) 5,566
C) 7,720
D) 6,000
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What conservation measure was suggested for golden langurs?
A) Building roads
B) Creating wildlife corridors
C) Increasing hunting licenses
D) Expanding urban areas
Correct Answer: B
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