So Why Do We Value The Jaguar Cat So Much?
The jaguar cat is a “flagship species”.
That is exactly why this animal has been chosen to highlight the problems in ecologically sensitive areas of the earth and galvanize the public into action.
Conservationists hope that flagship species like the jaguar can help save entire ecosystems in which they live.
Value of the Jaguar within Its Ecosystem
Here is how Columbia Encyclopedia defines the term "ecosystem":
As a predator, the jaguar cat keeps the number of its preys’ population under control. (2) In short, it guarantees that such “controlled” populations of other animals can consume only a certain amount of plants and other animals within the ecosystem that they all share (for example, a small forest). So these interactions between animals and plants of this specific ecosystem, which the jaguar somehow “oversees”, result in a stable distribution of this ecosystem’s “members”.
On the other hand, not all the scientists agree with this theory, and this may be just the natural variability of animal and plant populations.
Also, as part of the biodiversity pool of each ecosystem in which it lives, the jaguar contributes to the general health and resilience of this ecosystem.
Aesthetic Value of the Jaguar
It is really easy to derive aesthetic pleasure from admiring this strikingly beautiful animal! Its glamorous spots and stunning colours bring out the best emotions in everyone, from children to adults.
This world would certainly be a sadder place without the jaguar’s beauty in it. So let’s not allow this to happen!
Economic Value of the Jaguar
The jaguar really does capture the imagination of many wildlife lovers. And with that comes a great potential for monetizing this “asset” for those who co-exist with this animal and secure its welfare. That is, the caring local population.
In fact, many ranchers now realise that the jaguar conservation can generate some great business opportunities (possibly a lot more profitable than traditional cattle ranching) and so they put efforts into making these new ideas work. (3)
The most popular business idea so far that would benefit jaguar conservation?
You guessed it. Ecotourism is the buzz of the day.
“Eco” tourists show a big interest in seeing jaguars in their natural habitats and paying good money for this unique chance. And as a result, we see a lot more private efforts to preserve jaguars. (4)
I like the following statement about this new phenomenon:
Ecotourism is certainly taking off. I guess it can work in the long-term if all the sides to this equation (including the jaguar!) get fair values from this economic activity.
Global warming is an increase in the Earth's temperature over the last century or so.
The causes of global warming are mostly man-made.
And the effects may be truly devastating.
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