The Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle, classified as a critically endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has been a subject of significant concern by the Indian government and international conservation communities. During the 19th Conference of the Parties to CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) held in Panama, India presented a proposal for the protection and preservation of this unique species.
India’s Proposal at the CITES Conference
Indian representatives proposed that the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle be moved from Appendix II to Appendix I of the United Nations Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species on Wild Fauna and Flora. The appendices categorize species based on their extinction threat level, where Appendix I includes species threatened with extinction, Appendix II covers species not necessarily threatened with extinction but require controlled trade, and Appendix III includes species protected in at least one country which has requested assistance in controlling the trade.
Seen as a step towards stronger regulations against international trade of endangered species, the suggestion was set against a backdrop of concerns for nearly 600 flora and fauna species believed to be acutely threatened due to the global trade.
Understanding the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle
Scientifically known as Batagur kachuga, the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle is one among the 24 species endemic to India. Identified by their vibrant hues of red, yellow, white, and blue, these turtles are native to fresh-water habitats in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. Historically, they were widespread in the Ganga River and also found in the Brahmaputra basin. Today, sizable populations are mostly limited to India’s National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary.
Threats to the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle
The existence of the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle is severely threatened by various human activities. Major hydrological projects, water pollution, and alterations to river flow dynamics are primary threats. Fishing nets pose danger as turtles often get entangled leading to a decline in their population. Habitat degradation from pollution, water extraction for human consumption, and irregular flow from upstream dams and reservoirs also contribute to the turtle’s diminishing numbers.
Furthermore, sand mining and seasonal crop farming along the Ganga River adversely affect the sandbars used by these turtles for nesting. Illegal trade and overharvesting of this species for consumption form a significant part of the problem. In fact, between 2009 and 2019, over 11,000 tortoises and freshwater turtles were seized in India, according to a study by TRAFFIC, a global NGO focused on wildlife trade and conservation.
The Conservation Status and Way Forward
The Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle has been classified as ‘Critically Endangered’ by IUCN Red List and is placed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA). While it’s currently listed under Appendix II of CITES, India’s proposal at the recent conference calls attention to the urgent need for stricter regulation of international trade involving this species.
The path to ensuring survival of the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle involves comprehensive conservation efforts at both local and international levels. This includes tighter control measures against illegal trade, implementation of sustainable practices in hydrological projects, stringent regulation of sand mining and crop cultivation on nesting sites, and heightened awareness campaigns about the species’ plight. Timely and concerted action can help secure the future of the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle.