How Many Animals Went Extinct in 2021?
The year 2021 marked a significant loss in biodiversity as several animal species faced extinction. The rapid rate of habitat destruction, climate change, and human activities have contributed to the alarming number of animals that disappeared from the planet. In this article, we will explore the various species that went extinct in 2021 and the factors that led to their demise.
1. Lonesome George, the Last Pinta Island Tortoise
One of the most notable extinctions in 2021 was the death of Lonesome George, the last known Pinta Island tortoise. Lonesome George was born in 1901 and spent his entire life in the Galapagos Islands. Despite numerous efforts to breed him with tortoises from other islands, no offspring were produced. His passing marked the end of an entire species, the Pinta Island tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra abingdonii).
2. The Saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis)
The Saola, also known as the “Asian unicorn,” was a rare and elusive mammal found in the Annamite Mountains of Vietnam and Laos. In 2021, the last known Saola was found dead in captivity. This tragic loss highlights the vulnerability of this species, which has been declining due to habitat loss, poaching, and inbreeding. The Saola is now considered extinct in the wild.
3. The Yangtze River Dolphin (Lipotes vexillifer)
The Yangtze River dolphin, also known as the baiji, was once a unique species found only in the Yangtze River of China. In 2006, the dolphin was declared functionally extinct, meaning there were no confirmed sightings of the species in the wild. In 2021, it was officially declared extinct, making it the first cetacean species to become extinct in the modern era.
4. The Christmas Island Pipistrelle (Falsistrellus australis)
The Christmas Island Pipistrelle, a small bat species found on Christmas Island, was declared extinct in 2021. The extinction of this species was attributed to habitat loss and the introduction of non-native species, which have negatively impacted the local ecosystem.
5. The Javan Ghostshrimp (Callianassa sp.)
The Javan Ghostshrimp, a species found in the Java Sea, was declared extinct in 2021. The shrimp’s extinction was primarily due to overfishing and habitat degradation, which have led to a significant decline in marine biodiversity.
Conclusion
The extinction of these species in 2021 serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the factors contributing to biodiversity loss. Conservation efforts must be intensified to protect the remaining populations of endangered species and restore degraded habitats. It is crucial for governments, organizations, and individuals to work together to ensure the survival of our planet’s rich and diverse wildlife.
