Lost world: New region with hundreds of unique species of plants and animals discovered
Scientists have found more than 200 species of unique animals in the mountains of Africa (photo: Pexels)
A team of scientists from various countries has summarized the results of extensive observations of the Southeast African Mountain Archipelago (SEAMA) ecosystem in Mozambique and Malawi. Several hundred previously unknown and unique animal species were discovered during the research, according to the scientific website IFLScience.
New discovery
Mountain ranges, typically associated with groups of islands in maritime spaces, have become a special focus of attention due to their unparalleled nature. Distributed across approximately 30 isolated territories along a mountain chain, they comprise a unique combination of meadows and evergreen forests separated by mountains, giving them an island-like appearance.
An endemic species of pygmy chameleon (photo: IFLScience)
New animal species found
These isolated areas have become ideal places for the formation of diverse ecosystems. Research has shown that over 200 unique species inhabit these areas, most of which are found nowhere else on the planet.
Among them are 127 plant species, three bird species, six freshwater crabs, four mammals, 11 amphibians, 22 reptiles, and 39 butterfly species. Many of them remain unidentified and may be new species.
A newly discovered freshwater crab from Mount Namuli (photo: IFLScience)
Scientists urgently call for the protection of this unique region, as its biodiversity is under severe threat from active deforestation. Since 2000, SEAMA has lost an alarming average of 18% of its forest cover, with some areas experiencing devastating losses of up to 43%.
An endemic species of bird living in the South East Africa Montane Archipelago (photo: IFLScience)
Most species here rely on large forested areas, the unique combination of which with meadows, shrubs, and mountain landscapes has created unparalleled conditions for the survival and development of many animals. However, considering the ecosystem disruptions, scientists fear that some species, including those yet to be thoroughly studied and described, may face extinction before we can fully understand their importance and role in the ecosystem.
A bush viper found on Mount Mabu (photo: IFLScience)
It is worth reminding that these adorable animals are at risk of complete disappearance.
And we also wrote that a rare bird species could completely disappear from the world.
