The tiger (Panthera Tigris) is one of the umbrella species among the cat family. They are one of the pompous backbones of our ecosystem helping us to conserve the natural habitat, as well as to preserve and protect all of nature, our sacred Mother Earth! They are considered to be the largest cat species that have survived to date. With a total body length of 3.38 m (i.e. 11.1 ft) and weighing up to 338.7 kg (i.e. 857 lb), tigers are blessed with exceptional beauty that makes them one of the most attractive among the panthera family. The Panthera tigris family consists of the following members:
1. Lion
2. Jaguar
3. Leopard
4. Snow leopard
Well among these carnivorous family, tigers are meant to be the apex predators since their main prey targets are from some ungulates like buffalo, pig, deer and to name a few. Tigers are considered the most recognizable and popular of the charismatic megafauna. In addition to being the national animal of India, tigers are also given national status in countries such as Bangladesh, Vietnam, Malaysia, and South Korea. They are the totems that are given high dignity in society.
IMPORTANCE FROM THE BIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE
Although tigers are not the King of the jungle, they can be given the title of being the Queen from the jungle, as they help serve the complete balance of our ecosystem. According to the latest study by a researcher, tigers are listed as one of the endangered species. Poaching by hunters for skins and body parts is the reason for the decline in the tiger population. The destruction of the habitat and its fragmentation are the main reasons for the decline in its population. The reduction of the feline population is becoming a great threat to our ecosystem that is affecting the climatic conditions of our environment in a disturbing way, which is why it is necessary that we save the tiger for the conservation of the ecosystem. The main reasons these cute cats are important from a biological perspective are listed below:
1. Livelihood support
The tourism industry, that is, the largest industrial sector of all, benefits enormously on a large scale and makes huge profits every year. Tigers are one of the main attractions for Indian and foreign tourists. Most foreigners visit India just to see the tiger. An increase in the tiger population is sure to support its livelihood.
2. Protector of genetic diversity
Being categorized under the species umbrella, the flora and fauna of our ecosystem are automatically conserved. A well-planned conservation program is always successful in protecting and saving the tiger species.
3. Shower rain
Tigers are meant to be the primary guardian and indicator of a lush and healthy green forest. The existence of living Tigers will surely bring rain instead of dead ones bringing devastation.
4. Climate controller
Tigers prevent climate change from occurring in the environment. They are known as the natural carbon sinks of our ecosystem. The more tigers we have, the more healthy reserves we will have.
5. Symbol of national pride
The long stripes of the tigers make them beautiful. Their strength and power make them popular with their kind. This is the reason why they have been awarded the national title. Out of the total of eight breeds, the Royal Bengal tiger of India is found in the country, except in the northwestern region.
So let’s promise to save our tigers, save our national pride, and fight for their right.
