The Hoolock Gibbon, the lone breed of ape native to India, plays an integral role in the biodiversity of Eastern Bangladesh, Northeast India, and Southwest China. Primary classifications categorize the Hoolock Gibbon into two distinct types: Western and Eastern, both having their unique geographic distributions and conservation status.
Western Hoolock Gibbon: Habitats and Conservation Status
The Western Hoolock Gibbon lends its presence conspicuously to all the states in the northeast of India, thriving between the southern reaches of the Brahmaputra river and east of the Dibang river. The species also extends its footprint beyond Indian landscapes, marking its territory in eastern Bangladesh and northwest Myanmar.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List has classified the Western Hoolock Gibbon as an Endangered species. This status sheds light on the inflated risks that this type is subjected to, highlighting the urgent need for focused conservation efforts.
Eastern Hoolock Gibbon: Habitats and Conservation Status
The Eastern Hoolock Gibbon dwells in exclusive pockets of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam in India. Its habitat stretches beyond Indian borders, into the landscapes of southern China and northeastern Myanmar.
According to the IUCN Red List, this type of Hoolock Gibbon is designated as a Vulnerable species. Although its situation is slightly less grave than its Western counterpart, it still demands serious attention to ensure its preservation.
| Species | Geographical Spread | IUCN Conservation status |
|---|---|---|
| Western Hoolock Gibbon | North-east India, eastern Bangladesh, north-west Myanmar | Endangered |
| Eastern Hoolock Gibbon | Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, southern China, north-east Myanmar | Vulnerable |
Protection Measures in India
In India, both species of the Hoolock Gibbon are earmarked on Schedule 1 of the Indian (Wildlife) Protection Act 1972. This act provides comprehensive legislation that aims to safeguard the diverse wildlife of India. Being listed on Schedule 1 implies that these creatures receive the highest level of protection under the law, emphasising their significant ecological role and their need for preservation.
Gibbons, as a prime constituent of the ecosystem, are beneficial for the environment in numerous ways, often helping in seed dispersion due to their frugivorous nature. However, the survival of these vital components of our biodiversity hang in the balance. The key to their preservation lies in effective legislations, rigorous conservation efforts, and hearty public participation in their protection.
