Indian star tortoises   

Why in News:  

Indian star tortoises have been seized by the Forest officials while being smuggled from Andhra Pradesh to Odisha. 

 Facts: 

iucn

 Source: IUCN 

  • Indian star tortoise (Geochelone Elegans): It is a species of tortoise found in dry areas and scrub forests of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It is accustomed to monsoon seasons. 
  • These tortoises are easily recognizable by their star-patterned shells. 
  • IUCN Status: Vulnerable 
  • Wild Life Protection Act 1972: Schedule IV 
  • CITES: Appendix I 
  • Threats: It is the single most confiscated species of freshwater tortoise in the world. It faces threats such as loss of habitat to agriculture and illegal harvesting for the pet trade.  

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