There is still a chance to save wild trees from extinction, but hurry up - experts say
There is still a chance to save wild trees from extinction, but hurry up - experts say
The world is facing the loss of biodiversity and trees are no exception. Some of the world's wild tree species are currently threatened with extinction, according to a shocking new report from the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI).
The report testifies to the state of wild plant species around the world over the past 5 years. More than 60.000 species of trees and wild plants have been observed, 30% of which are threatened with extinction: that's twice the number of mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles combined that are currently threatened with extinction. Of these, more than 440 tree species are particularly endangered with fewer than 50 specimens remaining in the wild. They come from all over the world - from the Sorbus arvonensis visible in North Wales (only 30 specimens still alive) to the Widdringtonia whytei in Malawi (even in this case there are a few dozen surviving specimens).
Trees are of vital environmental, economic and cultural importance. They are very important for biodiversity and have the ability to absorb carbon monoxide in many ecosystems such as woodlands, rainforests and grasslands. Most of the wild trees are found in South-Central America, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
(Read also: Trees could save our cities, instead we plant them and then kill them in a short time)
According to the report, one-fifth of wild tree species are directly exploited by humans - mainly for food, fuel and drugs. It is precisely over-exploitation that leads many species to extinction: in fact, the most important threats to these species are represented by agriculture, intensive farming, deforestation and, above all, by the effects of global warming.
As temperatures rise, many species lose their natural habitat - both in temperate and more tropical areas: according to the report, 180 species are directly threatened by rising sea levels and extreme climatic phenomena. especially for some species that live on the islands, such as the Caribbean magnolias).
Wealth of wild trees in various areas of the world (Source: BGCI)
But perhaps all is not yet lost: despite the rapid and extreme changes that trees around the world are facing, the report's authors are confident they will be able to save these endangered species if humanity's efforts in this direction continue and intensify. . Encouraging results have already been seen for some species, but now is not the time to stop. This is why BGCI has made available to everyone an online database to keep track of the various efforts made for the conservation of trees: this will allow them to understand which species are most in need of protection and in which countries.
Follow us on Telegram | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Youtube
Fonte: Botanic Gardens Conservation International
We also recommend:
- First demonstrated how glyphosate can persist for years in wild plants, causing flower infertility
- Finding a lonely or injured wild animal: here's what to do
- Five things to know when we meet a wild animal
- Counterorder! Plants cannot purify the air in the house: it is too polluted
