genetic diversity
Genetic diversity is the real issue behind Odisha’s sudden celebration of its melanistic tigers. When a Similipal cub appeared on the cover of National Geographic last week, leaders and tourism officials rushed to promote it as a symbol of pride. Yet melanism here is not a wonder—it is a warning. It reflects the isolation and inbreeding of Similipal’s tigers, with 13 of 27 already carrying the mutation.
Still, Odisha has finally begun to respond. After years of reluctance, the state translocated two tigresses from Tadoba-Andhari to improve genetic strength. Proposals to designate Sunabeda and Debrigarh as reserves are also on the table. These are overdue but necessary steps.
The state currently counts just 30 tigers, with Satkosia still empty after a failed reintroduction in 2018. Odisha cannot afford to stop at magazine covers. Expanding reserves, securing tiger corridors, and supplementing populations are essential if genetic diversity is to be restored. Pride must come from action, not anomalies.
The genetic diversity article:
Based on New Indian Express, India.
Photo via New Indian Express.
