Question

A taxon which is evaluated against the criteria in IUCN Red list, but does not qualify for other categories in the List is known as

• A. Near threatened
• B. Vulnerable
• C. Least Concern
• D. Critically endangered

Hint:

IUCN Categories:
Threatened Categories = Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU).
Evaluated but just below threatened threshold = NEAR THREATENED (NT).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria: a taxon that is close to qualifying for, or is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future, is classified as Near Threatened (NT).
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \text{IUCN Hierarchy: Extinct } \rightarrow \text{Threatened (CR, EN, VU)} \rightarrow \mathbf{Near \text{ } Threatened (NT)} \rightarrow \text{Least Concern (LC)} \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List v3.1 Criteria):
1. Near Threatened (NT) (A): A taxon is Near Threatened when it has been evaluated against the quantitative Red List criteria but does not currently qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable, but is close to qualifying for or is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future.
2. Least Concern (LC): Evaluated and determined to be widespread and abundant with low extinction risk.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, the taxon is known as Near threatened, corresponding to option (A).