Its wool, known as shahtoosh
Explanation
The Tibetan Antelope, locally known as the Chiru (Pantholops hodgsonii), is a species native to the high-altitude steppes of the Tibetan Plateau. It is accorded the highest legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and Appendix I of CITES.Detailed Analysis:
- Its meat, which is a delicacy is incorrect: While the animal may be consumed for sustenance in some local contexts, meat is not the driver of the international illegal trade that endangered the species.
- Its horns, used in traditional medicine is incorrect: Although antelope horns are sometimes used in traditional practices, they are not the primary reason for the targeted commercial poaching of the Chiru.
- Its wool, known as shahtoosh is correct: The Chiru is primarily hunted for its extremely fine and warm underfur, known as Shahtoosh (Persian for "King of Wools"). This wool is used to weave luxurious shawls that are highly valued globally. Unlike domesticated sheep, the Chiru cannot be sheared; the animals are killed to extract the wool, which led to a massive decline in their population.
- Its skin, used for making tents is incorrect: The skin is not the primary commercial commodity sought from this species.
Key Takeaway: The primary threat to the Chiru (Tibetan Antelope) is poaching for Shahtoosh wool, which is considered the finest and warmest natural fiber in the world.