How Many Animals Went Extinct in 2017?
The year 2017 marked a significant loss in biodiversity as several animal species faced extinction. The rapid rate of habitat destruction, climate change, and human activities have pushed numerous species to the brink of extinction. This article aims to shed light on the number of animals that went extinct in 2017 and the factors contributing to their decline.
According to various conservation organizations and research studies, several animal species were declared extinct in 2017. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) plays a crucial role in assessing the conservation status of species worldwide. In 2017, the IUCN Red List reported the extinction of at least 12 species.
One of the most notable extinctions in 2017 was the Saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis), a rare antelope found in Vietnam and Laos. This species was declared extinct after extensive searches and surveys failed to locate any individuals. The Saola’s extinction is a tragic loss for biodiversity, as it was one of the world’s most endangered mammals.
Other species that went extinct in 2017 include the Socotra cactus (Carnegiea gigantea), a large cactus native to the Socotra archipelago in Yemen. The Socotra cactus faced extinction due to climate change, habitat loss, and over-exploitation. The loss of this unique species highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts in the face of global warming.
Additionally, the IUCN reported the extinction of the freshwater fish species, the Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Rafetus swinhoei), also known as the Peking soft-shelled turtle. This turtle species was once abundant in China but faced severe habitat degradation and over-harvesting. The extinction of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle is a stark reminder of the threats posed by human activities to aquatic ecosystems.
Several bird species also faced extinction in 2017. The Stephens’s bird of paradise (Paradisaea stephaniae) from Papua New Guinea was declared extinct after extensive searches failed to find any remaining individuals. The extinction of this bird species is attributed to habitat loss and hunting.
The year 2017 serves as a wake-up call for the urgent need to address the threats facing biodiversity. The extinction of these animal species underscores the importance of conservation efforts, sustainable practices, and policy changes to protect our planet’s natural heritage. As we continue to lose species at an alarming rate, it is crucial to take action now to prevent further extinctions and preserve the delicate balance of our ecosystems.
