Rediscovered Species: Are They Back from Extinction?
Author Information
Author(s): Brett R. Scheffers, Yong Ding Li, Harris J. Berton, Giam Xingli, Navjot S. Sodhi
Primary Institution: National University of Singapore
Hypothesis
Do rediscoveries of species represent viable populations or the delayed extinction of doomed species?
Conclusion
Most rediscovered species are highly threatened and remain on the brink of extinction despite being found.
Supporting Evidence
- Over the past 122 years, at least 351 species have been rediscovered.
- Most rediscovered species have restricted ranges and small populations.
- 92% of amphibians, 86% of birds, and 86% of mammals are highly threatened.
Takeaway
Scientists found many animals thought to be extinct, but most of them are still in danger of disappearing forever.
Methodology
The study documented rediscovered species through literature review and web searches, analyzing their conservation status and characteristics.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in declaring species extinct or rediscovered based on expert judgment.
Limitations
The study may not have recorded all rediscoveries and relies on expert opinion for declaring species as rediscovered.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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