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Apex Predator
· Endangered (IUCN 3.1) / Project Tiger Protected
Royal Bengal Tiger
Panthera tigris tigris
Habitat Strata Sal Forests, Mangrove Swamps & Terai Grasslands
Vertical Elevation 0m (Sundarbans) to 2,800m (Corbett & Mishmi Hills)
Dietary Ecology Chital, sambar deer, wild boar, gaur, hog deer
Population Status Recovering through rigorous sanctuary management
Species Overview & Morphology
The Royal Bengal Tiger is India's national animal and the undisputed apex predator of Asia's wilderness. From the tidal mangrove deltas of the Sundarbans to the deep sal canopies of Corbett and Kanha, the tiger maintains balance across entire river basin ecosystems.
Ecological Role & Canopy Dynamics
By governing the numbers and grazing behaviors of large ungulates like sambar and chital, tigers prevent the overgrazing of forest undergrowth. This protection safeguards topsoil from monsoonal erosion and preserves river headwaters.
Field Expedition Journal Notes
Ground-Truthed Field Behavior
"Camera-trap telemetry in Ranthambore logged resident male "Arrowhead" patrolling a core territory of 85 square kilometers, with 88% of scent markings recorded along ancient sandstone ravines and waterhole rims."
Documented Anatomical Metrics
Adult Male Mass 200 to 260 kg
Canine Length 7.5 to 9.0 cm
Territory Core 60 to 120 km²
Co-Existing Corridor Species
