Blob-headed fish and amphibious mouse among 27 new species found in ‘thrilling’ Peru expedition
GuardianDEC 28 2024
Aquatic Mouse Among 27 New Species Found in Peru
Above: The Amazon River system. Image copyright: Juancho Torres/Contributor/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The remarkable discovery of so many new species in a human-dominated landscape demonstrates nature's resilience and ability to thrive alongside people who sustainably manage ecosystems with Indigenous knowledge. It proves that conservation efforts in populated areas can yield significant results.
Narrative B
The growing threats of deforestation, agricultural expansion, and over-exploitation in the Alto Mayo landscape pose serious risks to these newly discovered species — particularly since some may exist only in small, threatened habitat patches that require immediate protection measures.