Context:
Odisha will start a melanistic tiger safari near Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR).
Melanistic Tigers:
- These tigers are often referred to as “black tigers” and are a rare subspecies of Bengal tigers.
- They have strong black stripes on their bodies, which are caused by pseudo-melanism.
- IUCN status- Endangered
- WLPA status- not listed in any schedule of the Wild Life Protection Act 1972.
Habitat
- The natural habitats of melanistic tigers are the dense forests of the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha.
- The Similipal Tiger Reserve is the only place in the world where these tigers are found.
Similipal Tiger Reserve:
- The Similipal Tiger Reserve is situated in the northernmost region of Odisha, in the Mayurbhanj District.
- It is a UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve, National Park, and Tiger Reserve.
- The tract contains high water levels and seasonal water sources that connect to rivers such as Budhabalanga, Salandi, and tributaries of the Baitarani River.
Pseudo-melanism
- Pseudo-melanism differs from melanism and is induced by a single mutation in transmembrane aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep), which also causes similar traits in other cat species.
- The STR, located in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district and bordering Jharkhand and West Bengal, is Asia’s second-largest biosphere and the only natural habitat for melanistic royal Bengal tigers in the country.