 Reference Base  Alarming status of the Great Indian rhinoceros (Rhinocero... |
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Baidya, K.N., 1983. Alarming status of the Great Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis). Environmental Conservation 9 (4): 346-347, figs. 1-2
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Value |
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All Rhino Species |
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It is believed that, when powdered, rhino horn has high aphrodisiac potential, and so it is much valued by some--particularly mongoloid-groups of Asiatic peoples (Gee, 1964), while North Yemeni tribesmen take pride in carrying daggers with decorative handles made of rhino horn (World Wildlife Fund, 1980). Furthermore, a common belief amongst some mongoloid tribes is that pieces of rhino horn can be used to detect poisons in drink*, this also increases the poaching pressure placed on the animals.
* In answer to our query as to 'how pieces of horn are used in this supposed detection', the Author replied (in litt. 13 September 1982) 'Skilfully-carved cups of Rhinoceros horn [are] used by Indian and far-eastern tribal chieftains to test beverages for the possibility of containing poison... due to increasing cost or non-availability [a small piece of rhino horn may he borne on) a finger ring, wrist-, or neck-chain of silver, copper, or nickel. The purpose is the same to test poisonous beverages or country drinks by observing colour changes of the drink offered.'--Ed.
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