The Congo River Basin, one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world, has unveiled its secrets.
Over a ten-year period (2013-2023), researchers working with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) documented the discovery of 742 previously unknown species of plants and animals, according to WP.
This immense biodiversity spans across five countries: Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo.
Remarkable Finds in the Basin
The discoveries include a breathtaking array of life:
430 new plant species: These include orchids, hibiscus varieties, and flowering plants like Didelotia and Grangea.
140 invertebrate species: Among them are ants, beetles, and a unique firefly.
96 fish species: From electric fish to mud eels, the rivers teem with surprises.
42 reptiles: This includes the Central African slender-snouted crocodile and a yellow bush viper that resembles a miniature dragon.
22 amphibians: All newly identified frogs.
10 mammals: Notably, a new monkey species called Lesula (Cercopithecus lomamiensis) with distinctive human-like eyes.
2 birds: Including a new robin and an owl.
Standout Discoveries
The Lesula monkey stands out as one of the rarest finds.
Inhabiting dense rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, these shy primates live in small family groups and are known for their striking blue markings and low, resonant calls.
Local communities were familiar with the species long before it caught the scientific world’s attention.
The Central African slender-snouted crocodile is another significant find.
Once thought to be a variant of the West African crocodile, molecular analysis confirmed it as a distinct species. However, deforestation and poaching threaten its survival.
This vast region faces serious risks, including deforestation, illegal wildlife trade, resource extraction, and climate change.
These pressures endanger not only the newly discovered species but also the basin's entire ecosystem.
WWF emphasizes the importance of naming and cataloging species to add them to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List.
This critical step aids in developing conservation plans to protect Earth's fragile biodiversity.
