Mekong full of secrets: 234 new species discovered!

Mekong full of secrets: 234 new species discovered!

In the heart of the fascinating Mekong region, which stretches across several countries in Southeast Asia, 234 previously unknown species were recently discovered, including extraordinary creatures such as the ominous vampire hedgehog and bizarre lizards that almost appear to be from “Game of Thrones”. The WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) report highlights the immense biodiversity of this unique river, which is further appreciated by the discoveries of hundreds of scientists from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. In total, the “Greater Mekong Region” includes an impressive 3,623 described vascular plants and vertebrates, such as today.at reported.

Threats and challenges

Despite these exciting discoveries, the region faces serious challenges. The WWF warns of the devastating effects of environmental pollution and massive construction projects that threaten the habitat of many species. “Monstrous hydroelectric power plants are ruining the harvests of the rural population and endangering the migration routes of animals that rely on the dynamic currents of the river,” explains Georg Scattolin from WWF Austria. These developments primarily lead to a decline in fish stocks and pose a serious threat to local ecosystems.

However, the biological diversity on our planet is not only threatened by the Mekong region. According to the WWF's information in its species dictionary, many animal species worldwide are at risk of extinction, including the critically endangered river dolphins that live in freshwater ecosystems. The WWF is actively committed to preserving this biodiversity and offers: WWF species lexicon comprehensive information about the habitats and protection of these endangered species. With over 100 entries on various plants and animals, the database is an important resource for combating species extinction.