Asiatic lion (Panthera leo pursica) is now

Options

A. Extinct from wild
B. Rare
C. Vulnerable
D. Endangered.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Species**: The Asiatic lion is scientifically known as Panthera leo persica. It is important to note that this species is often referred to as the Indian lion because it is primarily found in India.

2. **Current Status**: The question asks about the current status of the Asiatic lion. We need to determine whether it is extinct from the wild, rare, vulnerable, or endangered.

3. **Understanding the Terms**:
- **Extinct**: A species that no longer exists anywhere in the world.
- **Rare**: A species that has a very small population, typically fewer than 50 individuals.
- **Vulnerable**: A species that is at risk of becoming endangered in the near future.
- **Endangered**: A species that is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild.

4. **Evaluate the Options**:
- **Extinct**: The Asiatic lion is not extinct; it still exists, primarily in the Gir National Park area of Gujarat, India.
- **Rare**: The population of Asiatic lions is more than 50, so they do not qualify as rare.
- **Vulnerable**: While they are at risk, they are not categorized as vulnerable; they are at a higher risk level.
- **Endangered**: Due to habitat loss and hunting, the Asiatic lion is classified as an endangered species.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the definitions and current status, the correct answer is that the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) is now classified as an **endangered species**.

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