India’s First Satellite Tagged Ganges Softshell Turtle Released in Kaziranga

India’s first satellite tagged Ganges softshell turtle released in the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve. This initiative was launched on Endangered Species Day and it aims to track the movement and habitat of this rare species.

What Is the Ganges Softshell Turtle?

The Ganges softshell turtle (Nilssonia gangetica) is a unique freshwater species found across the India.

Key Features

• Distinct arrowhead-shaped markings on the head
• They are found in rivers, lakes and reservoirs.
• Mainly large and long-lived species.

Despite its wide distribution across India they are classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Why Satellite Tagging Is Important

This initiative marks the first time in India that this species has been satellite tagged.

Objectives of Tagging

• Track seasonal movement patterns
• Identify the breeding and nesting sites
• Understand home range and habitat use

According to experts from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), this data will help in better conservation planning in the Brahmaputra river basin.

How the Project Was Carried Out

The tagging operation involved the capturing a healthy adult turtle, also fitting a satellite transmitter under veterinary supervision and also releasing it safely back into its natural habitat.

The project was conducted by the,

• Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
• Assam Forest Department
• Kaziranga authorities
• Supported by the National Geographic Society

Kaziranga: A Key Habitat for Freshwater Turtles

Kaziranga is one of the most important regions for the turtle conservation.

Key Facts

• It is home to 5 out of 8 softshell turtle species found in India.
• It is located along the Brahmaputra river ecosystem.
• Also recognized globally for the its biodiversity.

This makes Kaziranga a priority conservation zone for the freshwater species.

Ecological Importance of Ganges Softshell Turtle

These turtles play a crucial role to maintaining ecosystem balance.

They,

• Act as natural scavengers
• Also feed on dead and decaying matter
• Help to clean river ecosystems

They are also considered as important indicators of freshwater health.

Additional Conservation Success Related to Hoolock Gibbon

In another encouraging signs, a Hoolock Gibbon was recently seen using the canopy bridge at the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary.

Union Minister Bhupender Yadav also praised this as an example of how small and science-based interventions can support wildlife conservation.