The Peruvian Amazon has not yet revealed all its secrets to us. A naturalist expedition was carried out there during the summer of 2022 to discover new species.
Conservation International, a non-profit association, brought together scientists, local technicians and assistants from the Awajún indigenous community.
“Mice”, a squirrel, amphibians, butterflies and fish discovered
This team studied Alto Mayo, a nature reserve in northern Peru, for 38 days. Scientists were surprised to discover so many ecosystems in addition to indigenous territories and villages in this region.
Dozens of animal species have been observed in their habitat. As Trond Larsen, manager of Conservation International's rapid assessment program, explains, “Discovering so many new species of mammals and vertebrates is truly incredible, especially in a landscape as influenced by humans as Alto Mayo.” “.
Two years later, scientists can finally confirm that 27 new species have been discovered in the Peruvian Amazon. Among these are a “semi-aquatic mouse”, a “spiky” mouse and a pygmy squirrel. Three amphibians, ten types of butterflies and eight types of fish were also identified.
The semi-aquatic mouse has partially webbed feet to feed on insects in the water
The researchers also found 48 other species. They are potentially new, but more in-depth studies must first confirm this. All these extraordinary discoveries were made possible thanks to the Awajún assistants.
“It was truly fantastic to work so closely with the Awajún people. They have a deep traditional knowledge of the forests, animals and plants with which they live,” confirms Trond Larsen.
The famous aquatic mouse discovered has partially webbed feet. It feeds on aquatic insects. It is also part of the group of the rarest rodents in the world.
As for the dwarf squirrel, it is “adorable with a beautiful brown-brown color”, according to the scientist. The little rodent measures 14 cm. It therefore fits easily in the palm of the hand. Agile and shy, it moves very quickly to hide in the trees.
In addition, the spiny mouse gets its name from its particularly stiff and rough coat, almost as if it had thorns.
Thousands of species identified in the Peruvian Amazon
One of the researchers' favorite discoveries is that of a fish with a globular head. It belongs to the Loricariidae family, armored catfish. Their body is actually covered in bony plates that protect them.
In total, the scientific expedition made it possible to observe 2,046 species in their natural habitat. Camera traps, DNA samples and bioacoustic sensors were used.
Researchers observed 49 endangered species
Researchers were able to recognize 49 species that are classified as endangered. These include the arboreal monkey and the yellow-tailed woolly monkey.
“If steps are not taken now to protect these sites and help restore parts of the landscape… there is a good chance that they will not survive in the long term,” warns Trond Larsen.
The discovery of the 27 new species should therefore accelerate the implementation of protective measures to guarantee the survival of these animals.
Source: Reuters
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