August 8 2025 Introduction: The Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) has developed a groundbreaking biological solution to protect teak plantations from the destructive teak defoliator moth (Hyblaea puera). This pest has caused severe damage to teak forests for decades. The new technology uses a naturally occurring virus, Hyblaea puera Nucleopolyhedrosis Virus (HpNPV), which specifically targets […]
August 8, 2025 Introduction: Recent research from Mizoram University and Help Earth, a Guwahati-based conservation group, has identified a new species of rain snake in Mizoram’s elevated tropical forests. Named Smithophis leptofasciatus, or the narrow-banded rain snake, this discovery adds to the biodiversity of the region and expands knowledge of the genus Smithophis. Identification The […]
August 7, 2025 Introduction: The 2025 joint census of Nilgiri tahr populations in Kerala and Tamil Nadu has recorded 2,668 individuals. Kerala accounts for 1,365 tahrs while Tamil Nadu has 1,303. This growth marks successful conservation efforts and calls for enhanced interstate collaboration. Population Distribution Conservation Practices Controlled burning in ENP grasslands has been very […]
August 7, 2025 Introduction: The Pacific coast has witnessed a catastrophic decline in sea star populations since 2013. Over 5 billion sea stars have perished due to a wasting disease that causes rapid deterioration and death. Scientists have now identified the cause, marking a breakthrough in marine ecology and conservation efforts. Outbreak and Symptoms The […]
August 7, 2025 Introduction: In eastern Ladakh, the Shyok village is transforming 10 hectares of barren community land into the Union Territory’s first botanical garden. Located on the route to the Galwan Valley, this initiative aims to preserve Ladakh’s unique biodiversity. The project is supported by the Leh Hill Council and is part of the […]
August 7, 2025 Introduction: The intestinal microbiome of the indri lemur, a critically endangered species native to Madagascar, has been analysed for the first time. This study reveals unique bacterial species and social transmission patterns. It offers new perspectives on conservation efforts. Indri Lemur Methodology Researchers analysed faecal and soil samples from six indri families. […]
August 7, 2025 Introduction: The University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa has launched an innovative anti-poaching campaign. It uses radioactive isotopes injected into rhino horns. This method aims to make horns traceable and deter illegal trafficking. The initiative follows six years of research and testing. It is supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency […]
August 5, 2025. Introduction: The India-Brazil partnership on biofuels is gaining momentum amid rising global trade tensions and shifting energy geopolitics. While the India-US trade relationship faces strain due to tariffs and disagreements, India and Brazil are deepening cooperation through the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA). This alliance focuses on sustainable biofuel adoption and energy security, […]
August 5, 2025 Introduction: Odisha introduced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to conserve traditional seed varieties called landraces. This step aims to protect agrobiodiversity and empower smallholder farmers by integrating these seeds into formal systems. The SOP under the ‘Shree Anna Abhiyan’ prioritises farmers’ knowledge and community management over industrial seed dominance. About Landraces Landraces […]
August 4, 2025 Introduction: Silver-backed chevrotain was rediscovered in Vietnam after nearly 30 years without confirmed sightings. This tiny, elusive mammal was captured on camera traps in the Greater Annamites ecoregion, signalling a vital breakthrough in efforts to protect endangered species. The finding marks the importance of combining modern technology with local knowledge to safeguard […]