Q. Which one of the species is an example of extinct species?
a) Asiatic Cheetah
b) Black Buck
c) Crocodile
d) Indian Wild Ass
Question from Odisha OCS Paper 1 2024
The correct answer is: a) Asiatic Cheetah.
Explanation:
– The Asiatic Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus venaticus) is considered extinct in the wild, with no confirmed sightings in its natural habitat for several years. It is critically endangered and categorized as extinct in the wild due to habitat loss and hunting pressures.
– In contrast, the other options listed are not extinct:
– Black Buck (Antilope cervicapra): This species is classified as endangered but is not extinct.
– Crocodile: Various species of crocodiles exist today, and they are not considered extinct. Some species are endangered, but they have not disappeared entirely.
– Indian Wild Ass (Equus hemionus): This species is also classified as endangered but remains extant.
Thus, among the choices provided, the Asiatic Cheetah stands out as the only example of an extinct species.