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A recent in-depth study by aplaceforanimals has shed light on the alarming state of our planet’s threatened species. The study reveals that a shocking 41% of amphibians are on the brink of extinction. Furthermore, out of the 65,000 vertebrate species, which make up just 3% of all animal species, a staggering 42,100 are facing the imminent threat of extinction.
Indonesia, a country known for its rich biodiversity with 10,408 animal species, unfortunately, also has the highest number of threatened species at 1,233. Australia and Mexico are not far behind, with threat rates of 12.5% and 13.9% respectively.
The study also highlights the plight of some of the world’s most iconic animals. The Javan rhino, with only 75 left, and the Amur Leopard, with just 100 remaining, are teetering on the edge of extinction. However, there is hope. An investment of around $1.3 billion annually could potentially save 841 highly threatened species.
The assessment by aplaceforanimals.com evaluated each country based on factors such as species diversity, the number of endangered species, and conservation efforts. Each country was scored on these parameters, resulting in an overall rating. The research relied heavily on data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), providing a detailed view of wildlife conservation efforts worldwide.
Countries with highest number of threatened species
| Country | Total Species | Threatened Species | Percentage Threatened |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indonesia | 10,408 | 1,233 | 11.9% |
| United States | 8,273 | 1,178 | 14.2% |
| Australia | 8,554 | 1,067 | 12.5% |
| Mexico | 6,880 | 953 | 13.9% |
| Brazil | 8,873 | 856 | 9.6% |
| Madagascar | Not provided | 849 | - |
| India | 6,848 | 813 | 11.9% |
| Colombia | 7,403 | 755 | 10.2% |
| Malaysia | 6,232 | 755 | 12.1% |
| Philippines | 5,858 | 693 | 11.8% |
Key Findings
- • 42,100 species are on the edge of extinction as per the IUCN Red List.
- • Out of 8,536 amphibian species, a worrying 41% are endangered.
- • Indonesia brims with biodiversity (10,408 species) but also leads with 1,233 threatened species.
- • Javan rhino counts a mere 75, while only 100 Amur Leopards roam wild.
- • $1.3 billion annually could halt the extinction of 841 critically threatened species.
Number of Endangered Animals by Species
Indonesia, with a staggering 10,404 species, leads the chart, while Brazil's vast Amazonian treasures closely follow with 8,873. Australia houses 8,554 species, including its iconic kangaroos and koalas. The U.S. caters to 8,372 species across its diverse terrains, from the wilds of Alaska to Everglades of Florida. The impressive range of Colombia - from towering mountains to expansive rainforests - accounts for its 7,403 species.
Countries such as Mexico, China, and Malaysia surpass the 6,000 mark, and nations ranging from Southeast Asia to East Africa, including the Philippines, Tanzania, and Thailand, each display over 5,000 species. Even smaller countries like Japan and Ecuador proudly declare numbers exceeding 5,000. Congo in Central Africa underlines the critical importance of each country in maintaining our planet's biodiversity fabric with its 4,902 species.
Prominent Animals facing near-term extinction risks
| Species | Remaining Population | Location | Major Threats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Javan Rhinos | 75 | Java, Indonesia | Habitat loss, disease, poaching |
| Amur Leopards | 100 | - | Habitat destruction, prey scarcity |
| Sunda Island Tigers | 400 | Sumatra, Indonesia | Poaching, illegal trade |
| Mountain Gorillas | 1,000 | - | - |
| Tapanuli Orangutans | <800 | - | Deforestation |
| Kakapos | ~140 | New Zealand | Predation, climate change |
| Tooth-billed Pigeons | 70-380 | - | Hunting, habitat loss |
| African Forest Elephants | - | - | Occupying only 25% of their original range |
| Vaquitas | 9 | - | Illegal fishing |
| Hawksbill Turtles | - | - | 80% population drop, critically endangered |
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