SINGAPORE — A new study reveals that Singapore’s plant and animal extinction rate has reached approximately 37 percent over the past 200 years, largel
SINGAPORE — A new study reveals that Singapore’s plant and animal extinction rate has reached approximately 37 percent over the past 200 years, largely attributed to deforestation. According to research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), Singapore has lost most of its tropical primary forests since 1819, which has significantly impacted its rich biodiversity.
The study, Two centuries of biodiversity discovery and loss in Singapore, was led by theoretical ecologist Ryan A. Chisholm from the National University of Singapore, along with Nadiah P. Kristensen and Frank E. Rheindt. The team compiled over 50,000 individual records, covering more than 3,000 species, creating Singapore’s largest biodiversity database to date.
Though this extinction rate is lower than an earlier estimate of 73 percent from 2003, it still represents a considerable loss, especially among larger, more visible species. For example, around 90 percent of Singapore’s bird species, 50 percent of its butterflies, and nearly 40 percent of bee species have vanished. Additionally, 60 percent of the island’s large mammals, such as tigers and leopards, are no longer found in Singapore.
Historically, Singapore was primarily covered by rainforests, with mangrove forests and swamps comprising the remainder. However, extensive deforestation has replaced much of this natural habitat. The study warns that if the current deforestation rate continues, about 8 percent of all remaining regional species could face extinction by 2100.
This analysis underscores the importance of accurate data in measuring human impact on biodiversity and highlights the need for conservation efforts to prevent further biodiversity loss in Southeast Asia.
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