742 Species Discovered in Congo Basin; Deforestation Looms

Rahul Somvanshi

WWF reveals 742 new species across Congo Basin's six countries through biodiversity exploration between 2013-2023.

Photo Source: Jean-Francois Trape World Wildlife Fund

DNA barcoding identified diverse orchids, ferns, and plants with potential medicinal properties among the new discoveries in Gabon.

Photo Source:  World Wildlife Fund

First firefly species emerges from Central African Republic amid extensive invertebrate findings including ants, beetles, and moths.

Photo Source: World Wildlife Fund

Newly documented aquatic life spans barbs, electric fish, and the Central African Slender-Snouted Crocodile facing immediate habitat threats.

Photo Source: Oleksandr (Alex) Zakletsky (CC BY 4.0)

Lesula monkey discovery in Lomami Basin signals first African primate finding since 1984, suggesting untapped species potential.

Photo Source: Hart JA, Detwiler KM, Gilbert CC, Burrell AS, Fuller JL, et al.(CC BY 2.5)

Congo Basin, Earth's largest carbon sink, supports 75 million people while housing 400 mammals, 1,000 birds, and 10,000 plant species.

Photo Source: Anneli Moeller (CC BY 3.0)

Indigenous communities demonstrate sustainable forest management, yet struggle with unprotected land rights amid rising commercial pressures.

Photo Source: Randula Alahakoon (CC BY-SA 4.0)

FSC-certified logging areas show higher large mammal populations compared to non-certified forests, proving conservation-commerce balance.

Photo Source: derekkeats (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Regional governments pledge 30% land protection by 2030, while battling funding gaps and enforcement challenges.

Photo Source: Aaron Logan (CC BY 1.0)