BLACK TIGER

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Context

• The government told the Rajya Sabha that there are 10 black tigers (melanistic tigers) in India and all are found exclusively in Odisha's Similipal tiger reserve.

Black Tigers

About

• Black tigers, also known as melanistic tigers, are a rare color variant of the Panthera tigris species, characterized by a distinct black coat with dark stripes.
• This genetic variation is a result of the presence of a specific gene responsible for pigmentation.

Genetic Basis:

• The black coloration is attributed to the presence of the melanistic gene, which influences the production of pigments, particularly melanin.
• A single mutation in the gene Transmembrane Aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) results in black colour.
• This gene is inherited from the parents, and the cub must inherit the gene from both parents to express the melanistic trait.

Geographical Distribution:

• Melanistic tigers have been reported sporadically across various regions, but they are particularly associated with the dense forests of the Indian subcontinent.
• Some melanistic tigers have been observed in the forests of the Indian states of Odisha, Assam, and the Sundarbans mangrove region.

Frequency and Rarity:

• Melanistic tigers are extremely rare, constituting only a small percentage of the overall tiger population.
• Their rarity is due to the need for both parents to carry the melanistic gene for a cub to express this coloration.

Threats:

• Like other tiger subspecies, melanistic tigers face threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.

IUCN status

• Endangered

Similipal Tiger Reserve

Location:

• Mayurbhanj district, Odisha; part of the Similipal-Kuldiha-Hadgarh Elephant Reserve.

Tribes:

• Home to Erenga Kharias and Mankirdias tribes.

Geography:

• Diverse landscapes with major rivers Khairi and Deo.

Conservation:

• Distinct genetic cluster prioritized for conservation.

Melanistic Tigers:

• Sole population of melanistic tigers globally.

Recognitions:

• Tiger reserve since 1956; under Project Tiger since 1973.
• Declared a biosphere reserve in 1994.
• UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserve since 2009.

Other Protected Areas in Odisha:

• Part of a network including Bhitarkanika National Park, Chilika (Nalaban island) WLS, Baisipalli WLS, Nandankanan WLS, and Gahirmatha (Marine) WLS.
• Similipal Tiger Reserve, with its unique melanistic tigers and diverse ecosystems, epitomizes India's commitment to biodiversity conservation on both national and global fronts.