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All About Panthera Tigris: India’s National Animal & Its Conservation

The Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera Tigris) is India’s national animal, symbolizing strength, agility, and wilderness. Found across India (except the northwest), Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, this majestic big cat is central to conservation efforts like Project Tiger. Understanding its biology, habitat, and protection schemes is crucial for UPSC, SSC, PSC, and other entrance exams.

All About Panthera Tigris (The Royal Bengal Tiger)
Physical Characteristics
Distinctive Stripes: Thick yellow-orange fur with dark, vertical stripes—each tiger has a unique pattern.
Powerful Build: Known for its muscular body, strong legs, and sharp claws, making it an apex predator.
Size: Males weigh 180-260 kg, while females are slightly smaller (100-160 kg).

Habitat & Distribution
Found in diverse ecosystems: dense forests, mangroves (Sundarbans), grasslands, and swamps.
The Indian subspecies (Panthera tigris tigris) dominates India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.
Absent in India’s northwestern deserts (Rajasthan’s arid zones).

Conservation Status & Project Tiger
IUCN Status: Endangered (due to poaching, habitat loss).
Project Tiger (1973): A landmark initiative to protect tigers, establishing 27 reserves across 37,761 sq km in India.
Key Reserves: Sundarbans (West Bengal), Ranthambore (Rajasthan), Bandipur (Karnataka), Kanha (Madhya Pradesh).

Why is Panthera tigris Important for Exams?
Questions on India’s national animal, wildlife conservation, and Project Tiger frequently appear in:
UPSC (Prelims & Mains) – Environment & Ecology sections.
SSC & PSC – General Knowledge on national symbols and species.
KAS, NID, NIFT – Current affairs related to biodiversity.

Questions & Answers on The Royal Bengal Tiger
Q1. What is the scientific name of the Royal Bengal Tiger?
✅ Ans: Panthera tigris tigris
Q2. When was Project Tiger launched in India?
✅ Ans: April 1973
Q3. Which is the only tiger reserve in India located in a mangrove forest?
✅ Ans: Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (West Bengal)
Q4. How many tiger reserves are there in India under Project Tiger?
✅ Ans: 27 reserves (as of 2023)
Q5. Why is the tiger considered a keystone species?
✅ Ans: Because it maintains ecological balance by controlling herbivore populations, ensuring forest health.

Mastering facts about Panthera tigris is essential for UPSC, SSC, PSC, and other exams. From its biology to conservation efforts like Project Tiger, this knowledge can help you score well in environment and current affairs sections.

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