The IUCN Red List was updated and now includes 77,340 species, of which 22,784 could go extinct.
Habitat loss and degradation were identified as the main threat to 85% of species included on the list. Also, invasive species and illegal trade were identified as possible causes of these population declines.
Species like the African Lion, the New Zealand Sea Lion, and the African Golden Cat are facing increased threats to their long-term survival.
This IUCN Red List update comes after a recent study showed that Earth is undergoing a mass extinction. This research study also linked human activity with the population decline of a number of animal species.
IUCN RED LIST INCLUDED CONSERVATION SUCCESS STORIES
The IUCN update did show that the total number of animal and plant species is declining. However, the list included success stories such as the Iberian Lynx whose population has increased from 52 to 156 from 2002 to 2012 and has been moved from the critically endangered list to the endangered list.
“This IUCN Red List update confirms that effective conservation can yield outstanding results,” said Inger Andersen, the IUCN Director General. Andersen also commented that “saving the Iberian Lynx from the brink of extinction while securing the livelihoods of local communities is a perfect example.”
THE IUCN DIRECTOR ISSUES A WARNING
Even with some successes like the Iberian Lynx and the Guadalupe Fur Seal, the IUCN Red List is a reminder of how many species are on the brink and need help desperately.
“But this update is also a wake-up call, reminding us that our natural world is becoming increasingly vulnerable,” Andersen warned. “The international community must urgently step up conservation efforts if we want to secure this fascinating diversity of life that sustains, inspires and amazes us every day.”
PLANTS ARE ALSO AT-RISK
Medicinal plants, 44 Indian species in total, have been added to the IUCN Red List in this update. All of these medicinal plants are threatened with extinction, mostly due to habitat loss and over-collection.
Also, 99% of orchids from Asia are threatened with extinction. According to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), commercial trade of these species is prohibited. However, illegal trade of these highly desirable orchids continues due to a lack of enforcement.
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Updated IUCN Red List Contains 22,784 Species Facing Extinction
