Penguins and 65 Antarctic animal species will go extinct faster

WASHINGTON – More than half of Antarctica’s native species are likely to go extinct by the end of the century if the pace global warming keep on,

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According to research in the journal PLOS Biology that was published on Thursday (12/22/2022).

found that 65 percent of Antarctic plant and animal species, including penguins, could go extinct if the world doesn’t do something to reduce fossil fuel emissions.

The study also shows that current conservation efforts in Antarctica are ineffective due to rapid changes on the continent.

The researchers concluded that by adding cost-effective strategies, up to 84% of Antarctic biodiversity could be saved.

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“Indeed, Antarctica does not contribute to climate change; there aren’t many people living there, so the biggest threat to the continent comes from outside”

“We really need global action on climate change and some local and regional conservation efforts to give Antarctic species the best chance of survival in the future,” said lead author of the study, Jasmine Lee.

The study also suggests that sea ice loss will threaten the ice-dependent emperor and Adélie penguins from April to December.

“Iconic species are endangered and it’s sad to think of Antarctica as one of the last great wildernesses on the planet and the effects of human actions being witnessed and felt there,” Lee said.

(wbs)