Q. What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’ a breed found in India?

  1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.
  2. It survives by grazing on mangroves.
  3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

  • 1 and 2 only
  • 3 only
  • 1 and 3 only
  • 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Notes:

Kharai camels
  • The Kharai camels are a unique breed of the camel found only in Kutch of Gujarat, has the unique ability to swim in the sea, giving a whole new meaning to the phrase “ship of the desert” and feed on mangroves on the island offshore.
    • They are also known as dariyataru (meaning sea-swimmer).
  • The Kharai camels can swim up to three kilometres into the sea in search of mangroves, its primary food. 
  • People consume their milk, while male calves are sold for economic returns. Hence it can be domesticated.
    • Given the breed’s ability to survive both on land and sea, the Kharai camel is one of the most preferred choices of graziers in the arid coastal region of Kutch. 
Kharai camels

Facing threats

  • Industries in Kutch–salt, thermal power, cement and shipyards, among others–pose a huge threat to the dwindling mangroves.
  • Most of these industries require constructing jetties in the sea, which results in the cutting down of mangroves that are fodder for the Kharai camels.
  • The increase in salinity throughout the region and the growth of industrial activities has minimised the availability of camel food and water sources.
  • Therefore, protecting the mangroves is key to protecting these unique animals.
  • The only source of income of the Kharai breeders is the sale of young camels, which is declining; the breeders usually consume the camel milk and wool themselves, as those items don’t have a market.