A new study reveals that approximately 60 species endemic to single islands are at high risk of extinction from severe tropical cyclones, similar to how Hurricane Dorian led to the extinction of the Bahama nuthatch. Researchers found that three-quarters of severe cyclones since 1972 hit island biodiversity hotspots, repeatedly affecting regions like Japan, Polynesia-Micronesia, the Philippines, Madagascar, Indian Ocean islands, and the Caribbean islands. Increased conservation efforts are crucial to prevent further extinctions.
Weatherwatch: How 60 species are just one cyclone away from extinction
Extreme weatherBirdsEnvironmentAnimalsWildlifeWorldBahamasHurricane DorianConservation
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️A new study reveals that approximately 60 species endemic to single islands are at high risk of extinction from severe tropical cyclones, similar to how Hurricane Dorian led to the extinction of the Bahama nuthatch. Researchers found that three-quarters of severe cyclones since 1972 hit island biodiversity hotspots, repeatedly affecting regions like Japan, Polynesia-Micronesia, the Philippines, Madagascar, Indian Ocean islands, and the Caribbean islands. Increased conservation efforts are crucial to prevent further extinctions.
Trending- 1 1972: Start of severe cyclone mapping for the study
- 2 2019: Hurricane Dorian hits the Bahamas, causing significant damage and the extinction of the Bahama nuthatch
- 3 Recent: New study published in the journal Biological Conservation reveals 60 species are one cyclone away from extinction
- Extinction of the Bahama nuthatch
- Potential extinction of 60 more species
- Loss of biodiversity in island hotspots
- Increased urgency for conservation efforts
What: A new study highlights that 60 species, endemic to single islands, are at high risk of extinction due to severe tropical cyclones.
When: Since 1972 (cyclone mapping), 2019 (Hurricane Dorian), recent study (new study published in Biological Conservation).
Where: Island biodiversity hotspots, specifically Japan, Polynesia-Micronesia, the Philippines, Madagascar, Indian Ocean islands, Caribbean islands, and the Bahamas.
Why: Severe tropical cyclones pose an increasing threat to species endemic to single islands, as demonstrated by Hurricane Dorian's impact on the Bahama nuthatch, leading to a significant number of species being on the brink of extinction.
How: Researchers mapped severe cyclones (those with wind speeds above 200km/h) that have occurred since 1972 and correlated them with biodiversity hotspots, finding a high overlap and repeated impact on specific island regions. They consulted the red list of most threatened species.