Concept notes: The lion-tailed macaque, also known as the wanderoo, is a critically endangered species of primate found in the Western Ghats of South India, particularly in the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. This species is known for its distinctive silver-white mane and is a key indicator of the health of the forest ecosystem in which it lives.
Explanation: The lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus) is a critically endangered primate species that is endemic to the Western Ghats of South India. This species is known for its distinctive silver-white mane and is a key indicator of the health of the forest ecosystem in which it lives. The lion-tailed macaque is found primarily in the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, with the Western Ghats of Kerala being a significant part of its natural habitat.
The Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India, is a biodiversity hotspot and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The lion-tailed macaque is adapted to the specific forest habitat and climate conditions found in this region. The Western Ghats provide the dense evergreen forests and the high rainfall that the lion-tailed macaque requires for its survival. The species is arboreal, meaning it spends most of its time in the trees, and it feeds on fruits, leaves, and insects.
The lion-tailed macaque is listed as critically endangered due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by deforestation, agricultural expansion, and human encroachment. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this species and its habitat. The Western Ghats, including the region in Kerala, are protected under various conservation programs and national parks to ensure the survival of the lion-tailed macaque and other endemic species.
It is important to note that the lion-tailed macaque is not found in other mountain ranges in India, such as the Eastern Ghats or the Shivalik Hills. These regions have different ecosystems and are home to other wildlife species but do not support the specific habitat requirements of the lion-tailed macaque. Therefore, the Western Ghats of Kerala is the correct answer for the region famous for the lion-tailed macaque.