Horseshoe crabs are often referred to as living fossils due to their remarkable stability in form over millions of years. Their basic anatomy has remained largely unchanged since prehistoric times, providing invaluable insights for scientific studies and ecological understanding. This unique evolutionary status highlights their importance in biodiversity and marine ecosystems.
In India, the state of Odisha is home to two of the three horseshoe crab species found in Asia: the coastal horseshoe crab and the mangrove horseshoe crab. However, their populations are facing significant threats. Factors such as shoreline alterations, rising sea levels affecting spawning habitats, and destructive fishing practices have led to a decline in their numbers.
Horseshoe crabs are highly valued in India for their medicinal properties, which are crucial in various medical applications, including vaccine production. Recognizing their significance, horseshoe crabs are protected under Schedule IV of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. This legal framework aims to preserve their populations and habitats from further decline.
The horseshoe crab population in Odisha is under threat from various factors. Shoreline alterations caused by human activities disrupt their natural habitats. Additionally, rising sea levels are negatively impacting the areas where they spawn. Furthermore, destructive fishing practices result in unintended bycatch, further threatening their survival.
To address the challenges faced by horseshoe crabs in Odisha, scientists and conservationists have proposed several measures. They advocate for the development of robust protection mechanisms that focus on habitat conservation and the establishment of conservation awareness programs. These initiatives aim to mitigate threats and ensure the survival of these ancient creatures.
Horseshoe crabs are primarily found along the northeast coast of Balasore and Kendrapara districts in Odisha. The main challenges they encounter include the loss of nesting sites and a gradual decline in their population. Conservation efforts are crucial to counteract these issues and secure a future for these living fossils.
With the steady decline in horseshoe crab numbers in Odisha, urgent action is required. The loss of nesting sites and inadequate conservation measures exacerbate the situation. Immediate efforts are essential to halt this decline and implement protective strategies to ensure the survival of horseshoe crabs in the region.
Q1. Why are horseshoe crabs considered living fossils?
Answer: Horseshoe crabs are termed living fossils due to their unchanged anatomy over millions of years, providing insights into ancient marine life and evolutionary history.
Q2. What are the key threats to horseshoe crabs in Odisha?
Answer: Key threats include shoreline alterations, rising sea levels affecting spawning sites, and destructive fishing practices leading to bycatch.
Q3. How are horseshoe crabs protected by law in India?
Answer: Horseshoe crabs are included in Schedule IV of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, which provides legal protection against hunting and habitat destruction.
Q4. Where are horseshoe crabs primarily located in Odisha?
Answer: They are mainly found along the northeast coast of Balasore and Kendrapara districts, facing challenges such as habitat loss and population decline.
Q5. What conservation measures are suggested for horseshoe crabs?
Answer: Suggested conservation measures include habitat protection, awareness programs, and the establishment of legal frameworks to mitigate threats to their survival.
Question 1: What term is used to describe horseshoe crabs due to their unchanged form over millions of years?
A) Extinct species
B) Living fossils
C) Marine reptiles
D) Endangered species
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which act provides legal protection to horseshoe crabs in India?
A) Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972
B) Marine Life Protection Act
C) Endangered Species Act
D) Forest Conservation Act
Correct Answer: A
Question 3: Which of the following is a major threat to horseshoe crabs in Odisha?
A) Overpopulation
B) Shoreline alterations
C) Pollution control
D) Climate change adaptation
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Where are horseshoe crabs primarily found in Odisha?
A) South Coast
B) Northeast coast of Balasore and Kendrapara
C) Western Ghats
D) Andaman Islands
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is one suggested conservation measure for horseshoe crabs?
A) Increase fishing quotas
B) Habitat conservation and awareness programs
C) Promote tourism
D) Reduce marine traffic
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: Which species of horseshoe crab is NOT found in Odisha?
A) Coastal horseshoe crab
B) Mangrove horseshoe crab
C) American horseshoe crab
D) Asian horseshoe crab
Correct Answer: C
Question 7: Why is urgent action needed for horseshoe crab conservation in Odisha?
A) Increasing fishing activity
B) Decreasing nesting sites and population
C) Lack of public interest
D) Expanding urban development
Correct Answer: B
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