New seahorse species:Hippocampus nalu
HEADLINES:
How an underwater photo led to the discovery of a tiny new seahorse species
WHY IN NEWS:
Finding a species like Hippocampus nalu also shows how little we know about Africa’s marine biodiversity, and how much more is left to discover
SYLLABUS COVERED: GS 3:Conservation of Biodiversity : IUCN
LEARNING:
For PRELIMS It is least important because information is incomplete at IUCN website . But make a note !
ISSUE:
- It is the first pygmy seahorse ever discovered in African waters.
- Hippocampus nalu is physically and genetically distinct from the seven known species of pygmy seahorses.
- Its nearest relatives are found more than 8,000 km away in the Pacific Ocean.
- Seahorses are threatened all around the world.
- As a result, several species are listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
- However, to date no pygmy seahorses are considered threatened — because we simply do not know enough about them.
IASbhai WINDUP:
- By discovering more species, and learning more about these tiny creatures, scientists can offer advice on how best to protect them.
- Pygmy seahorses can also provide an important boost for tourism: scuba divers love these small species and are willing to travel far and wide for a chance to see them.
- If coastal communities and scuba divers alike are taught about the best ways to protect these species and others in the oceans, there can be huge economic and social benefits.
SOURCES:THE HINDU & PIB/DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS for UPSC CSE Prelims & Mains
DISCOVER MORE : Important IUCN List
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