Question

The red data book keeps the record of
A. Endangered animals and plants
B. Extinct animals and plants
C. Endemic animals and plants
D. All of the above

Answer 1

Hint: Threatened plants and animals are those which are on the verge of extinction. The Red data book usually consists of a specific group of plants and animals. For example – reptiles, insects, mosses, etc.

Complete answer:
The Red data book refers to a document which is maintained by a nation or a state to record the threatened and rare species (it is a group of organisms that share common characteristics and are capable of interbreeding) or subspecies (it is a group of organisms within a species that has branched off due to geographic isolation) animals and plants that reside inside their boundary. So, here the answer will be endangered animals and plants.

With the help of the red data book, we can gather crucial information on endangered species and we can use that information for further studies or the purpose of research. Due to this, we can take certain precautionary measures to protect the endangered species.

The red data book has various categories listed in it. They are,
- Probably extinct: The species under this category existed in the past and their presence is not confirmed in 50 years.
- Endangered: The number of these species has dropped to an alarming rate and they are on the verge of extinction.
- Decreasing number: The number of species under this category is decreasing day by day and they can become endangered shortly.
- Rare: These include species that are low in number and inhabit a limited territory.
- Uncertain status: There is no complete information on the status of the species under this category.
- Rehabilitated and Rehabilitating: The species under this category are increasing in number due to protective measures.

Additional information:
- The red data book has been maintained by IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) since 1964. It comprises of four objectives,
- To provide scientific information on the status of species and subspecies globally.
- To draw attention to the magnitude and importance of endangered biodiversity.
- To influence national and international policies along with decision making.
- To provide information so that necessary actions could be taken to conserve biological diversity.

Hence, Option (A) is the correct answer.

Note: There is a difference between extinct, endangered, and endemic species (plants and animals).
- The extinct species are those which have perished from the earth, that is, they are dead. For instance, Tasmanian Tiger.
- The endangered species are those which are critically low in number and are on the verge of becoming extinct. For instance, Snow leopards.
- The endemic species are those which are found only in a specific geographical area. For instance, Nilgiri blue robin.