PRZEWALSKI HORSES

Source: The Hindu

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Context

• Przewalski horses, an endangered wild horse species, are being reintroduced into their native Kazakh steppe after a long absence, as part of a project led by Prague and Berlin zoos.
• This project aims to bolster the population of Przewalski horses, showcasing Kazakhstan's commitment to wildlife conservation, which has also benefited other endangered species like the Saiga antelope.
• The reintroduction of Przewalski horses to Kazakhstan is part of broader global efforts to preserve endangered species and maintain ecological balance, demonstrating international cooperation in conservation. 

Details

Key Points

• Przewalski Horses:
  • Endangered wild horse species reintroduced into Kazakhstan.
• Native Habitat:
  • Kazakh steppe, suited to harsh winters and scarce food conditions.
• Conservation Project:
  • Led by Prague and Berlin zoos, involving 40 horses over five years.
• Current Populations:
  • 2,000 globally, found in China, Mongolia, France, Russia, and the Chernobyl exclusion zone.
• Saiga Antelope:
  • Another endangered species in Kazakhstan, with population growth due to conservation efforts.

About Steppes

Definition:

• Steppes are large, flat, treeless grasslands found in temperate regions, characterized by semi-arid climate conditions.

Location:

• Prominent in Central Asia, including Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and parts of Russia, and also in parts of Eastern Europe and North America.

Climate:

• Typically experiences extreme temperatures, with hot summers and cold winters, and low to moderate precipitation.

Flora and Fauna:

• Home to a diverse range of grasses and herbaceous plants; supports various wildlife species adapted to open, dry environments, including Przewalski horses and Saiga antelope.

Ecological Importance:

• Steppes play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, soil conservation and as grazing grounds for livestock, contributing to regional economies and ecological balance.

​Sources:

The Hindu

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Consider the following statements about Przewalski Horse: 1.Przewalski horses are one of the last breeds of wild horses and are genetically different from modern domestic horses. 2.The Przewalski horse population has only been reintroduced in Kazakhstan and nowhere else in the world. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: A