DUSHANBE, July 19, 20011, Asia-Plus -- More than 60 researchers will be engaged in compiling a new Red Data Book of Tajikistan that is expected to be published by the end of 2012, Talbak Salimov, head of the Committee for Environmental Protection, told reporters on July 18.

According to him, the first edition of Red Data Book of Tajikistan was published in 1988 and in 1994, it was translated into Tajik.  “Since that time, many changes have taken place, and therefore, we want to update the book,” Salimov noted.

An editorial board has already been set up for compiling the new edition of the Red Data Book of Tajikistan.  Funds for publishing this book will be allocated from the national budget.

Red Data Book of Tajikistan, also known as Red Book, is a state document established for documenting rare and endangered species of animals and plants, as well as some local subspecies that exist within the territory of Tajikistan.  The book provides a central information source in organizing studies and monitoring programs on rare and endangered species and their habitats.  It is regularly consulted when developing and implementing special measures for the protection and rehabilitation of such species.