TAG: GS-3: WILDLIFE & BIODIVERSITY
THE CONTEXT: The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia has officially declared October 25, 2024, as Khulan Conservation Day, following the initiative of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in Mongolia.
EXPLANATION:
About the Khulan Conservation Day:
- October 25 has been designated as Khulan Conservation Day by Mongolia’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, inspired by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in Mongolia.
- The day aims to emphasize the Khulan’s role as a keystone species in the Gobi-Steppe ecosystem, underscoring its importance in maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity.
- The Khulan (Equus hemionus hemionus) is part of the Equidae family, which also includes horses, donkeys, and zebras.
- The species migrates across the vast Eurasian Steppe and Gobi Desert in search of food, exhibiting one of the largest terrestrial movement patterns, crucial for ecosystem function.
Significance of the Khulan (Mongolian Wild Ass)
- The Khulan (Equus hemionus hemionus) is a member of the Equidae family, which includes horses, donkeys, and zebras.
- India is home to two related species—the Kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass) and the Ghudkhur (Indian Wild Ass).
- As a keystone species, Khulan contributes significantly to the biodiversity and ecological integrity of the Gobi-Steppe ecosystem.
- Khulan roam across large areas of the Eurasian Steppe and Gobi Desert annually in search of food and water.
- Their range of movement is one of the largest documented for terrestrial mammals, highlighting their adaptability to vast landscapes.
Concentration in Mongolia
- Population Hub: Over 80% of the global Khulan population resides in Mongolia, making it the primary habitat for this species.
- Unique Challenges: The concentration of Khulan in Mongolia makes the country crucial for its conservation, especially in times of extreme weather events like the recent dzud.
What is a Dzud?
- A dzud is a harsh winter event characterized by temperatures dropping below -30°C, strong winds, heavy snow, and ice.
- Severity: The 2023-24 dzud was the most severe in 49 years, with snow covering 90% of Mongolia’s territory at its peak.
- Livestock Losses: The dzud caused significant loss of livestock, with an estimated 7.9 million heads perishing, particularly affecting provinces in the eastern and central regions.
Potential Impact on Khulan
- Parallels with Livestock Losses: Although direct data is limited, WCS notes that Khulan face similar risks to livestock in dzud conditions.
- Challenges for Khulan:
- Resource Scarcity: Prolonged snowstorms limit access to grazing areas, leading to potential starvation.
- Decreased Reproductive Success: Harsh conditions may impact reproductive health and success rates among Khulan.
- Increased Vulnerability: Limited resources can make Khulan more susceptible to disease and predation.
Adaptability vs. Vulnerability
- Adaptations: Khulan are adapted to Mongolia’s extreme climate.
- Limits of Adaptation: However, the dzud’s severity has tested these limits, potentially impacting the Khulan population’s health and numbers.
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