Endangered plant, animal species increased in K’taka, says Biodiversity Board report

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Biodiversity Board, in a report submitted to the Forest Minister, states that endangered plant species in the State more than doubled in a decade and 40 mammals are now critically endangered.

The Board stated that they formed a committee of experts to revise the original endangered flora and fauna species list published in 2010 by the Central government.

The Board has also submitted its report to the National Biodiversity Board and the Central government.

The report states that 16 new plants are now endangered bringing the total endangered plant species in the State to 32.

While 40 mammals are critically endangered, 23 birds, 26 reptiles, 21 amphibians, 53 freshwater fish and 35 saltwater fish species have been added to the threatened categories, the report adds.

After receiving the report, Forest Minister Aravind Limbavali reportedly stated that the Forest Department will protect the listed plants and animals.