India’s pygmy hog is vanishing from its grasslands, just as it is needed the most.
About Pygmy Hog:
It is the smallest and rarest species of wild pig in the world.
It is one of the very few mammals that build its own home, or nest, complete with a ‘roof’.
It is an indicator species as its presence reflects the health of its primary habitat.
Habitat: It prefers undisturbed patches of grassland dominated by early succession riverine communities, typically comprising dense tall grass intermixed with a wide variety of herbs, shrubs and young trees.
Currently, they survive only in the grasslands of Assam’s Manas and Orang national parks.
Ecological Role of Pygmy Hog:
Using its snout, it digs for roots, tubers, wild fruits, termites, earthworms, eggs and other food sources found in the grasslands.
This digging aerates the soil and enhances its quality.
It also helps disperse seeds through its dietary and foraging habits.
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