Handling of Insects

Handling of collected insects depends on several factors, including the type of insect, the purpose of collection, and the intended use of the specimens. Here are some general guidelines:

The  method of handling varies from group to group

                           

1. Killing the insects:

Insects should be killed humanely and quickly. The most common methods are freezing, using an insect-killing jar, or using ethyl acetate. Some insects, such as those with hard exoskeletons, may require boiling or soaking in hot water before preservation.

2. Relaxing Insect

Relaxing insects is the process of making them pliable and easier to work with before pinning and preservation. This is typically done after the insects have been collected and killed in a killing jar. Here are the steps to relax insects:

• Remove the insects from the killing jar and place them in a sealed container with a piece of damp paper towel or cotton ball. The container should be large enough to accommodate the insects without crowding.
• Allow the insects to sit in the container for several hours to overnight. The length of time needed for relaxing the insects varies depending on the species, size, and the extent of the insect's stiffness.
• Check the insects periodically, and when they are pliable enough, gently manipulate their limbs and antennae to get them into the desired position.
• Once the insects are pliable, they can be pinned and dried using an insect pinning block, a foam-lined entomological box, or another suitable drying method.

It's essential to use caution when relaxing insects to avoid breaking or damaging their fragile limbs and antennae. Be gentle and patient, and don't rush the process. Properly relaxed and preserved insects will maintain their shape and color for many years, making them valuable resources for scientific research, educational displays, and personal collections.

3. Labeling:

Labeling the collected insects with information such as the location, date, and collector's name is crucial for future reference and research.

4. Preservation:

The preservation method depends on the intended use of the specimens. Insects can be preserved dry, in alcohol, or in a pinned state. Pinned insects should be placed in a labeled pinning box to prevent damage.

5. Storage:

Insects should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place to prevent deterioration. If using alcohol as a preservation method, the specimens should be checked regularly for any discoloration or fungal growth.

                         

6. Safety:

Handling insects can be potentially hazardous due to the risk of allergic reactions, venomous insects, and insect-borne diseases. Always wear protective equipment such as gloves and eye protection and handle the specimens with care.

It is important to follow the best practices and ethical guidelines for collecting and handling insects to ensure that the specimens are preserved and used appropriately.

Methods of Insect Preservations

Insect preservation refers to the methods used to protect, store and display insects for scientific research, education, or personal collection. Here are some of the most common methods of insect preservation:

1. Dry preservation:

This method involves drying insects and preserving them in a dry environment. It is the most common and affordable method of insect preservation. Insects can be air-dried, placed in silica gel, or frozen before being placed in storage boxes.

2. Wet preservation:

This method involves preserving insects in a liquid solution. The most common wet preservation method is called "formalin-ethanol" and involves immersing the insects in a mixture of formaldehyde and ethanol. This method is best for preserving delicate insects or those with soft bodies.

3. Pinned preservation:

This method involves mounting insects on insect pins and preserving them in a dry environment. This method is best for displaying insects and preserving their physical features.

                               

4. Slide mounting:

This method involves mounting very small insects on glass slides using a special adhesive, which is then covered with a cover slip. This method is best for observing and identifying microscopic details.

5. Freeze-drying:

This method involves rapidly freezing the insect, followed by drying it in a vacuum. This method is best for preserving insects with soft bodies, such as butterflies and moths.

It's essential to choose the appropriate preservation method based on the insect species, size, and condition, as well as the purpose of preservation. Properly preserved insects will maintain their shape and color for many years, making them valuable resources for scientific research, educational displays, and personal collections.

Game Reserves of Pakistan and its Protection

Game reserves are areas of land that are set aside for the conservation of wildlife and for recreational activities such as game viewing, hunting, and photography. Unlike national parks, game reserves often allow hunting and other activities that are restricted in national parks. Game reserves can be public or private and are typically managed by wildlife conservation organizations, government agencies, or private landowners.

In some countries, game reserves are an important part of wildlife conservation efforts, as they provide a source of income for local communities and encourage the sustainable use of natural resources. However, in other countries, game reserves have been criticized for promoting unsustainable hunting practices and contributing to the decline of wildlife populations.

Importance of Game reserves

Game reserves are important for several reasons, including:

• Conservation of wildlife: 

Game reserves provide a safe and protected habitat for wildlife species to live and breed. By limiting human activities in these areas, game reserves help to reduce the impact of habitat destruction, poaching, and other threats to wildlife populations.

• Preservation of natural habitats: 

Game reserves help to preserve natural habitats, such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, and rivers that are essential for the survival of wildlife species. By protecting these habitats, game reserves help to maintain the biodiversity and ecological balance of the area.

• Tourism and recreation: 

Game reserves provide opportunities for tourism and recreation, such as game viewing, hunting, and photography. These activities generate income for local communities and support the conservation efforts of the reserve.

• Education and research: 

Game reserves provide opportunities for education and research on wildlife conservation and natural resource management. By promoting public awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation and supporting scientific research, game reserves help to advance knowledge and understanding of the natural world.

• Sustainable use of natural resources: 

Game reserves promote the sustainable use of natural resources by regulating activities such as hunting, fishing, and tourism. By setting limits on the number of animals that can be hunted or the number of visitors that can enter the reserve, game reserves help to ensure that natural resources are used in a way that does not harm the environment or threaten wildlife populations.

Overall, game reserves play an important role in protecting and conserving wildlife and their habitats, promoting sustainable use of natural resources, generating income for local communities, and advancing knowledge and understanding of the natural world.

List of Game Reserves of Pakistan

Abbasia	Killan
Askor Nallah	Kot Zabzai
Bahawalpur Plantation	Machiara
Bhon Fazil	Makhnial
Bhono	Mando Dero
Bilyamin	Mang
Bund Khush Dil Khan	Mirpur Sakro
Chashma Barrage	Moji
Chassi/Baushdar	Mori Said Ali
Chaupalia	Nar/Ghoro Nallah
Cholistan	Nara
Danyor Nallah	Nazbar
Darosh Gol	Nizampur
Daulana	Pai
Deh Jangisar	Pakora
Deh Sahib Saman	Parit Gol/Ghinar Gol
Diljabba-Domeli	Qazi Nag
Dosu Forest	Rahri Bungalow
Gat Wala	Resi
Gehrait Gol	Sher Qillah
Ghamot	Surjan, Sumbak, Eri and Hothiano
Gogi	Swegali
Goleen Gol	Tando Mitha Khan
Head Qadirabad	Tangir
Jabbar	Teri/Isak Khumari
Kala Chitta	Thal
Kathar	Thanedar Wala
Khari Murat	Totali
Kazinag	Vatala
Khipro	Wam
Kilik/Mintaka	Zangi Nawar

Protection of Game Reserves

The protection of game reserves is critical for the preservation of wildlife and their habitats. Here are some key ways that game reserves are protected:

Legal Protection: 

Game reserves are typically protected by national and/or local laws and regulations that prohibit hunting, poaching, and other activities that harm wildlife or their habitats. In Pakistan, the wildlife protection laws include the Pakistan Wildlife (Protection, Preservation, Conservation and Management) Ordinance, 1979 and the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, 1997. These laws provide legal protection to wildlife and their habitats and impose penalties for violations.

Wildlife Conservation: 

Wildlife conservation is a critical aspect of game reserve protection. Game reserves are managed to conserve and protect wildlife, including endangered species. This involves monitoring wildlife populations, restoring habitats, and reintroducing endangered species into the wild. For example, the Lal Suhanra National Park in Punjab, Pakistan, is home to a breeding program for the endangered Indus River dolphin.

Community Involvement: 

Local communities play a crucial role in the protection of game reserves. They are often involved in the management of the reserves and can provide valuable information on wildlife populations and the state of the habitats. They may also be employed in ecotourism activities or as park rangers. Involving local communities in the management of game reserves can also help to reduce conflict between humans and wildlife.

Ecotourism: 

Many game reserves rely on ecotourism as a source of revenue and to promote conservation efforts. Ecotourism activities such as guided tours, wildlife watching, and camping can provide economic benefits to local communities while also promoting conservation efforts. Ecotourism also raises awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats.

Law Enforcement: 

Effective law enforcement is essential for protecting game reserves from illegal activities such as poaching, hunting, and habitat destruction. Park rangers and other law enforcement officials play a critical role in protecting game reserves by patrolling the reserves, monitoring wildlife populations, and enforcing wildlife protection laws. In Pakistan, the wildlife protection department and forest department are responsible for law enforcement in game reserves.

Overall, the protection of game reserves requires a comprehensive approach that involves legal protection, wildlife conservation, community involvement, law enforcement, and ecotourism. By working together, we can ensure that game reserves and their wildlife are protected for future generations.

WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

A wildlife sanctuary is a protected area of land or water that is set aside specifically for the conservation and protection of wildlife and their habitats. These areas can be created by governments, non-governmental organizations, or private individuals and organizations.

Wildlife sanctuaries typically have strict regulations on human activities, such as hunting, fishing, and logging, in order to minimize disturbance to the animals and their habitats. They may also have designated trails or areas for visitors to observe wildlife in their natural habitats, with the goal of promoting education and appreciation for these species.

Major Wildlife Sanctuaries in Pakistan

There are several wildlife sanctuaries in Pakistan, and here are some of the major ones:

1. Manshi Wildlife Sanctuary
2. Astor Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Baltistan Wildlife Sanctuary
4. Bajwat Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Chashma and Taunsa Barrage Dolphin Sanctuary
6. Cholistan Wildlife Sanctuary
7. Hub Dam Wildlife Sanctuary
8. Mahal Kohistan Wildlife Sanctuary
9. Naltar Wildlife Sanctuary
10. Nara Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
11. Lake Haleji Wildlife Sanctuary
12. Manglot Wildlife National Park

These sanctuaries are important for protecting the natural habitats of wildlife in Pakistan, including a variety of species of plants and animals. By conserving these habitats, we can help to ensure the survival of these species and prevent their extinction.

Wildlife   Sanctuaries in Pakistan	Location	Area	Established in Year
Manshi   Wildlife Sanctuary	Khagan   Valley	2,321 ha	1977
Astor Wildlife Sanctuary	The catchment area of Astore Nala	41,472 ha	1975
Baltistan   Wildlife Sanctuary	Baltistan   District	41,500 ha	1975
Bajwat Wildlife Sanctuary	Sialkot District	5,400 ha	–
Chashma and   Taunsa Barrage Dolphin Sanctuary	Mianwali   District	–	1972
Cholistan Wildlife Sanctuary	Cholistan, Punjab	467,500 ha	–
Hub Dam   Wildlife Sanctuary	Balochistan,   Sindh	27,219 ha	1981
Mahal Kohistan Wildlife Sanctuary	Jamshoro District, Sindh	70,577 ha	1972
Naltar   Wildlife Sanctuary	Naltar   valley, Gilgit Baltistan	27,206 ha	1975
Nara Desert   Wildlife Sanctuary	Mirpurkhas   District, Sindh	630,000 ha	1980
Lake Haleji   Wildlife Sanctuary	Thatta   District, Sindh	658 ha	1977
Manglot   Wildlife National Park	KPK, Pakistan	710.628 ha	1990

 Importance of Wildlife Sanctuaries

Here are some key points that explain the importance of wildlife sanctuaries:

Biodiversity conservation: Wildlife sanctuaries are essential for preserving biodiversity, which refers to the variety of plant and animal species in a given area. Wildlife sanctuaries provide a safe haven for endangered and threatened species that might otherwise become extinct due to human activities, such as habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change.
Habitat protection: Wildlife sanctuaries are designed to protect the natural habitats of wildlife species. By protecting these habitats, wildlife sanctuaries help to maintain ecological balance, prevent soil erosion, and protect watersheds.
Scientific research: Wildlife sanctuaries provide opportunities for scientific research and study. Researchers can study the behavior, ecology, and physiology of various wildlife species in their natural habitats, which can help to improve our understanding of these species and inform conservation efforts.
Education and recreation: Wildlife sanctuaries provide opportunities for education and recreation. Visitors can learn about different wildlife species and their habitats, as well as the importance of conservation efforts. Wildlife sanctuaries also offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Economic benefits: Wildlife sanctuaries can have economic benefits for local communities. They can attract tourists, who can contribute to the local economy by spending money on lodging, food, and souvenirs. Additionally, wildlife sanctuaries can create jobs for local residents, such as park rangers and tour guides.

Overall, wildlife sanctuaries play a critical role in conserving biodiversity, protecting habitats, promoting scientific research, educating the public, and providing economic benefits to local communities. By preserving these natural areas, we can ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience and appreciate the incredible diversity of wildlife that exists on our planet.

Cholistan Wildlife Sanctuary

Protection of Endangered Species

The protection of endangered species is a critical issue, and there are several measures that can be taken to protect these species from further harm and prevent their extinction. Here are a few key ways to protect endangered species:

• Habitat Conservation
• Wildlife Laws and Regulations
• Captive Breeding and Reintroduction Programs
• International Agreements and Treaties
• Public Education and Awareness

Conservation of Biodiversity

Biodiversity is essential for the functioning of ecosystems and for human well-being. Biodiversity provides a range of ecosystem services, including nutrient cycling, pollination, and climate regulation.

• Threats to biodiversity come from a range of sources, including habitat loss, climate change, overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, and invasive species.
• Conservation efforts must be based on scientific research and a thorough understanding of the ecology of the species and ecosystems involved.
• Protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife reserves, are an important tool for conserving biodiversity. These areas can provide a safe haven for endangered species and help to preserve the natural habitats they depend on.
• In addition to protected areas, conservation efforts should focus on the sustainable management of natural resources, including forestry, agriculture, and fisheries.
• International cooperation is essential for conserving biodiversity, as many species and ecosystems cross national borders. International agreements, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity, can help to coordinate conservation efforts and promote global biodiversity conservation.
• Public education and awareness campaigns can help to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation and encourage individuals to take action to protect biodiversity in their local communities.
• Finally, conserving biodiversity requires a long-term commitment and sustained effort from individuals, governments, and organizations around the world.

 

 

Protected Areas of Pakistan, Types and its Importance

Protected areas

Protected areas are defined as regions of land and/or sea that are managed with the primary objective of conserving biodiversity, along with associated cultural, spiritual, and recreational values. Protected areas can include national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, nature reserves, game reserves, and other areas that have been set aside by governments, private organizations, or communities.

The primary aim of protected areas is to safeguard and conserve ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity by maintaining ecological processes and reducing human impacts on the natural environment. Protected areas can provide a range of benefits, including the protection of watersheds, regulation of climate, carbon sequestration, and maintenance of ecological services that benefit human populations.

Protected areas can be managed through a variety of conservation strategies, including zoning, surveillance, research and monitoring, and participatory management. Additionally, many protected areas have provisions for sustainable use of natural resources, such as ecotourism, research, and traditional resource use by local communities.

Protected areas are considered an important tool for achieving global biodiversity conservation goals and are recognized as a key element of international agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Importance of Protected Areas:

Conservation of biodiversity: Protected areas play a crucial role in preserving the Earth's biodiversity by providing safe habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species. These areas can support a high level of species diversity and provide essential ecological services such as pollination, water purification, and soil formation.

Preservation of ecosystem services: Protected areas help to maintain the natural systems that provide essential ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, water regulation, and climate regulation.

Sustainable use of natural resources: Protected areas can be managed to support the sustainable use of natural resources such as timber, non-timber forest products, and fisheries, while ensuring that these resources are not depleted.

Cultural and spiritual values: Protected areas often have cultural and spiritual significance for local communities, who have developed traditional knowledge and practices for managing these areas sustainably.

Climate change mitigation: Protected areas can help to mitigate the effects of climate change by storing carbon and reducing greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable land use practices.

Economic benefits: Protected areas can generate income and employment opportunities through ecotourism, research, and other sustainable uses of natural resources.

Overall, protected areas are essential for the long-term conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources. They are an important tool for achieving global biodiversity conservation goals and ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from the Earth's natural resources.

Types

There are several types of protected areas, including:

National Parks: These areas are designated for the conservation of wildlife and their habitats, as well as for recreational and educational purposes.

Wildlife Sanctuaries: These areas are designated for the conservation and protection of wild animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles.

Game Reserves: These areas are designated for the conservation and protection of game animals such as antelopes, deer, and zebras, as well as for hunting and other recreational purposes.

Biosphere Reserves: These areas are designated for the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources, while also promoting research and education.

Nature Reserves: These areas are designated for the conservation of natural landscapes, including geological features, forests, and wetlands.

Marine Protected Areas: These areas are designated for the conservation of marine biodiversity, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves.

Wilderness Areas: These areas are designated for the preservation of natural landscapes and ecosystems, with minimal human impact.

Protected Landscapes: These areas are designated for the conservation of natural and cultural landscapes, including traditional agricultural systems, and other human activities.

Community-Based Natural Resource Management Areas: These areas are managed by local communities for the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources.

Each type of protected area has its own specific management goals, objectives, and regulations, depending on the conservation priorities and the specific ecosystems and species found in the area.

Despite the importance of protected areas for the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources, these areas face a range of threats, including:

Illegal activities: Illegal activities such as poaching, logging, and mining can cause significant damage to protected areas and can lead to the loss of key species and habitats.

Habitat destruction: Habitat destruction, such as deforestation and land conversion for agriculture and infrastructure, can fragment habitats and reduce the area available for wildlife.

Climate change: Climate change can impact protected areas by altering ecological processes, reducing species distributions, and changing the timing of key life events such as breeding and migration.

Invasive species: Invasive species can outcompete native species, alter habitat conditions, and disrupt ecosystem processes.

Pollution: Pollution from agricultural, industrial, and urban sources can degrade water quality, soil health, and air quality, negatively impacting the health of protected areas and the species that live there.

Human-wildlife conflict: Conflicts between humans and wildlife, such as crop raiding and predation, can lead to negative attitudes towards wildlife and result in the persecution or removal of key species.

Insufficient funding and resources: Protected areas often face limited funding and resources, which can lead to inadequate management and enforcement of regulations, leaving areas vulnerable to threats.

It is important to address these threats to protected areas through effective management, research, and public education, in order to ensure the long-term conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Here is a comprehensive list of the protected areas in Pakistan, including national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, game reserves, and other conservation areas:

1. Ayubia National Park
2. Central Karakoram National Park
3. Chitral Gol National Park
4. Deosai National Park
5. Diamer-Basha Dam and Chilas Forest Reserve
6. Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park
7. Hingol National Park
8. Jandol Game Reserve
9. K2 National Park
10. Kala Chitta Game Reserve
11. Kalesar National Park
12. Kandia Game Reserve
13. Kirthar National Park
14. Khunjerab National Park
15. Kirthar Wildlife Sanctuary
16. Lal Suhanra National Park
17. Machiara National Park
18. Margalla Hills National Park
19. Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park
20. Nawabganj Wildlife Sanctuary
21. Naltar Wildlife Sanctuary
22. Pir Lasura National Park
23. Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary
24. Sheikh Badin National Park
25. Skardu-Khaplu Protected Area
26. Soan Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
27. Taunsa Barrage Dolphin Reserve
28. Toli Pir Game Reserve
29. Tochi Wildlife Sanctuary
30. Ucchali Wildlife Sanctuary
31. Ziarat Juniper Forest

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there may be other protected areas in Pakistan that are not included here.