This article, originally published in Undark Magazine, tells the story of scientists uncovering new species that are already on the brink of extinction. The article begins by describing a collection of resin in eastern Africa that contained preserved insects, providing a window into the past forest environment. Two species of stingless bees that were discovered within the resin have not been seen since the 1990s and are now considered extinct. This discovery highlights the troubling prevalence of extinction in our world.
The article goes on to discuss the occurrence of “dark extinctions,” where species go extinct before they can even be identified. The loss of these species can have significant consequences for biodiversity and ecological balance. Scientists believe that human activities, such as habitat destruction and the introduction of invasive species, have greatly accelerated the rate of extinctions.
However, accurately measuring the extent of these extinctions is a challenge. Current estimates of extinction rates are likely conservative, as they do not include undescribed species. It is believed that a large percentage of Earth’s species remain unknown to science, particularly in underexplored regions. The lack of funding and expertise further hinders species discovery and conservation efforts.
The article highlights the importance of museum and herbaria collections in uncovering dark extinctions. By reexamining and analyzing specimens, scientists have identified mislabeled species and discovered new ones that haven’t been seen in the wild for decades. Examples include the discovery of a new species of killifish in Brazil and the extinction of numerous land snail species in Hawaii.
In conclusion, the article emphasizes the urgent need to address the phenomenon of dark extinctions. Without proper identification and recognition of these species, conservation efforts will fall short. It is crucial to understand the full impact of human activities on nature and preserve the rich diversity of life on Earth for future generations.
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