NEWS: India’s first satellite-tagged Ganges soft-shell turtle was released in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, Assam.

Satellite Tagging

Satellite tagging is a scientific method in which a small transmitter is attached to an  animal to track its:

•        Movement

•        Habitat use

•        Migration patterns

•        Breeding and nesting areas

Scientists receive data through satellites for better conservation planning.

About the Ganges Soft-Shell Turtle

Scientific Name: Nilssonia gangetica

Conservation Status

•        IUCN Red List: Endangered

•        Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I species

Ecological Importance

•        The Ganges soft-shell turtle is an important: Predator, Scavenger

•        It feeds on: Dead animals, decaying organic matter

Importance

This helps:

•        Clean river ecosystems

•        Maintain ecological balance

•        Reduce pollution naturally

Purpose of Satellite Tagging

According to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), tracking will help understand:

•        Seasonal movement

•        Home range

•        Nesting sites

•        Breeding habitats

This will support conservation efforts in the: Brahmaputra river basin

Institutions Involved

•        Wildlife Institute of India (WII): A premier wildlife research institute under the:

•        Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

•        Other Organizations

o   Kaziranga National Park authorities

o   Assam Forest Department

o   National Geographic Society (funding support)

About Kaziranga National Park

Location

•        Assam

•        Along the Brahmaputra River

Famous For

•        One-horned rhinoceros

•        Tigers

•        Elephants

•        Wild buffaloes

•        Freshwater turtles

•        UNESCO World Heritage Site