Question:Consider the following statements with respect to Himalayan Viagra:
(1) It has entered the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s(IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.
(2) It is locally known as Kira Jari and used as a tonic and a therapeutic medicine
Which is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) None of these
Answer : (c)
- Context:
- The world’s costliest fungus — Ophiocordyceps sinensis — also known as Himalayan Viagra, which sells in international markets for upwards of Rs 20 lakh per kg, has entered the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.
- About:
- The list has placed the fungus, known for its aphrodisiac and rejuvenation properties, in the ‘vulnerable’ category.
- Citing the reason for placing the fungus in the vulnerable category, IUCN said “its spread has declined by at least 30% over the past 15 years as a result of overharvesting.”
- Facts:
- Ophiocordyceps sinensis: It is a caterpillar fungus endemic to the Himalayan and Tibetan plateau and found in China, Bhutan, Nepal and India.In India, it is primarily found in Uttarakhand in the higher reaches of districts ke Pithoragarh and Chamoli.
- Other Names: It is locally known as Kira Jari (in India), Yartsagunbu (in Tibet) and Yarsagumba (in Nepal).
- Significance: It is used as a tonic and a therapeutic medicine in Tibet and China.In recent times, it has also been widely traded as an aphrodisiac.
- Conservation Status: It has been listed under the ‘vulnerable category’ as per IUCN Red List.
By-Arpit Mishra
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