What’s going on here?
For the first time, scientists have documented the geographical distribution of more than 300,000 of Earth’s plant species. They’ve revealed that 21% of plants are endemic island species, which means they’re not found anywhere else in the world.
What does this mean?
Compared to mainland areas, oceanic islands are known for hosting a high percentage of endemic species which are very diverse and perfectly adapted to each region. But the geographical isolation of these areas and their unique evolutionary history make these species very vulnerable to extinction.
Despite hosting lots of unique plant species, islands only have a moderate number of them in specific regions, that’s why it is so important to observe and protect them.
Among the endemic species they carry, over half (51%) are classified as threatened. Islands have also been the site of 55% of all recorded global plant extinctions.
The most recent study found that of all plant species found only on islands, only 6% meet the United Nations 30×30 conservation target. That means the majority of these rare species are not well protected by law.
Why should we care?
Islands play a crucial role in global biodiversity, but are fragile ecosystems which need urgent conservation efforts and targeted measures.
They face many threats such as habitat degradation, invasive species and a lack of protected areas.The climate crisis intensifies all of these threats.
Without action, these unique ecosystems, which hold valuable insights into distinct evolutionary processes, face irreversible consequences. They support local and global economies through industries like ecotourism, fisheries, and agriculture, making their conservation vital not just for biodiversity, but also for sustaining livelihoods and ecological services worldwide.
More research is needed in order to determine the best conservation strategies and to prevent endemic plant and animal species from further loss around the globe.
Be curious!
- Read the full study on the geographical and phylogenetic distribution of plants.
- Help monitor and report sightings of endemic species through platforms like iNaturalist !
Featured image by Dario Brönnimann, via Unplash
