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https://theconversation.com/new-discoveries-three-tiny-species-added-to-south-africas-spectacular-marine-life-239315>
"South Africa’s marine realm is globally unique because of the two major ocean
currents that meet here. The cold, slow-moving Benguela and the warm,
fast-flowing Agulhas currents create a special environment that supports high
levels of biodiversity. Over 13,000 marine species are currently known to live
in these waters. About 30% of these are endemic, meaning they occur nowhere
else.
Biodiversity metrics (the number or abundance of species) are dominated by
invertebrates such as sponges, bivalves and crustaceans. These are usually
small, which makes them adaptable and versatile. In terms of numbers,
invertebrates make up a vast majority of marine life.
I have been involved in marine biodiversity research for the last 10 years and
have worked with teams of researchers, biology students and citizen scientists
from across the country. I have also been involved in the naming and
classification of organisms.
In South Africa, where there is still much to discover, one focus of my work is
identifying new species.
Looking at subtle differences and finding similarities in how tiny organisms
evolved in different regions is a global effort. In my own work, carried out
together with many experts, there are three finds that have been particularly
exciting – a “walking sponge” (
Suberites ambulodomos), a tiny clam
(
Brachiomya ducentiunus) and a rare and miniature isopod (
Pseudionella
pumulaensis).
Long-term efforts to identify new species like these guide effective
conservation. They help to ensure that critical habitats are protected.
These three newly described species may seem small and insignificant
individually. However, small species make up the foundation of the food chain
and play vital roles in nutrient cycling and in promoting biodiversity."
Share and enjoy,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
