In the midst of a global scenario where it is estimated that there are around **34,000 species of fish**—constantly increasing—the record of **past extinctions** also leaves room for small victories. This is evidenced by two recent episodes that occurred in **Australia** and **India**, where species considered extinct were **reintroduced or rediscovered** with the active participation of scientists and local communities.
## Australia: Olive Perch Returns to Swim in the Wetlands of Victoria
Officially declared extinct in 1980, the **olive perch (Petrocephalus boettgeri)** had disappeared from the wetlands of **Victoria** in the first half of the 20th century.
However, after years of conservation efforts, **200 specimens were reintroduced in Cameron’s Creek**, within the **Gunbower National Park**, marking a milestone for Australian ecology.
“Now that we know that the olive perch thrives in substitute wetlands and we have a backup population, we can aim for more wild sites for releases”, said **Shenandoah Bruce** from the North Central Catchment Management Authority.
The species not only plays a **key role in the ecological balance of wetlands**, but its reintroduction helps to:
– Reduce the excess of **agricultural nitrogen**—which causes algae proliferation—
– Restore disrupted food chains
– Strengthen the cultural identity of indigenous communities like the **Tati Tati**, who actively participated in the project
“This return is both biological and symbolic”, emphasized **Damien Cook**, director of **Wetlands Revival Trust**, highlighting the wetlands’ capacity to regenerate life and mitigate agricultural impacts.
## India: Rediscovery of a Fish Considered Extinct Since 1933
In the Indian state of **West Bengal**, researchers confirmed in 2024 the reappearance of the **Chel snakehead (Channa amphibeus)**, a freshwater fish last seen in **1933**. The discovery took place in the river system of the **Chel River** in the Himalayas, where **three specimens were collected** thanks to clues provided by a local tribe that includes it in their traditional diet.
“The resolution of this ancient mystery in Indian ichthyology reinforces the importance of continuous exploration and the persistence of biodiversity, even in species believed lost”, stated **Tejas Thackeray**, founder of the **Thackeray Wildlife Foundation**.
## Appearance of Extinct Species: An Invitation to Protect the Invisible
Both cases are reminders of the value of:
– Continuous monitoring and field science
– Community participation in conservation
– Ecosystem restoration as a strategy against climate change
While the numbers of extinct species—at least **30 documented according to the IUCN**, and many others unrecorded—continue to be concerning, these reappearances demonstrate that **restoration is possible with commitment and local knowledge**.
