The report titled “New life in the Congo Basin: a decade of species discoveries (2013-2023)” highlights the incredible biodiversity and the urgent need for conservation of one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.
Over the past ten years, 742 new species of fauna and flora have been discovered in the Congo Basin, as revealed in our recent report. This document compiles the studies conducted by hundreds of scientists from universities, conservation organizations, and research institutes worldwide.
The report reveals an amazing variety of new species, including plants, invertebrates, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and previously unknown mammals.
Among these discoveries are unique orchids, new coffee species, clawed frogs, crocodiles, electric fish, owls, spiders, turtles, and even a monkey species locally known as lesula.
Protecting the valuable ecosystems of the Congo Basin
The discoveries not only highlight the richness of the Congo Basin, but also the urgent need to make conservation efforts to protect its fragile ecosystems. Known as the “<strong+lung of Africa“, the Congo Basin is the world’s largest carbon sink and hosts the largest tropical peatland. It spans six countries, and its tropical rainforest provides food security and essential livelihoods for indigenous and local populations, besides serving as a critical habitat for endangered species.
WWF works in collaboration with governments, partner organizations, local communities, and indigenous groups to protect these ecosystems. From biodiversity monitoring programs to FSC certification of timber concessions, our goal is to ensure that future generations can enjoy the wonders of the Congo Basin.
The report also emphasizes the crucial role of indigenous knowledge in conservation. Indigenous communities, who have coexisted with these forests for generations, are key to preserving and understanding this biodiversity. Many of the species in this report, although newly described in scientific literature, have been familiar to local communities for a long time.
Regional governments have committed to placing 30% of their lands under some form of protection by 2030, and WWF is supporting in identifying and effectively protecting these areas.
Timber certification as a conservation tool
A recent study in Gabon and the Republic of the Congo revealed that in timber concessions certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), there are a greater number of large mammals compared to non-certified forests. Sustainability certification is thus presented as a proven method to protect biodiversity and generate economic benefits for both communities and governments.
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