What is the difference between the antelopes Oryx and Chiru?
- Oryx is adapted to live in hot and arid areas whereas Chiru is adapted to live in steppes and semi-desert areas of cold high mountains.
- Oryx is poached for its antlers whereas Chiru is poached for its musk.
- Oryx exists in western India only whereas Chiru exists in north-cast India only.
- None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above is correct.
Explanation
Option (a) is correct
- Chiru is a medium-sized bovid (mammal with cloven hoof and unbranched hollow horns).
- Distribution: It is native to the Tibetan plateau. A small number occur in Ladakh. Karakoram (Nubra Shyok) WLS and Changthang Cold Desert WLS of Ladakh are famous for it.
- Habitat: High-altitude plains, hills, plateaus, and valleys consisting of alpine, desert steppe, and meadows.
- Threats: Hunting for its fine wool called shahtoosh.
- IUCN: NT
- The Oryx genus includes four large antelope species, distinguished by their pale fur with dark markings and long, straight horns. These antelopes are well adapted to desert environments and can endure long periods without water.
