Sombrero Lizard Population Soars from 100 to 1,600; 'Darth Vader' Isopod Found

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Sombrero ground lizard population surges from under 100 to over 1,600 in just three years through dedicated conservation efforts on an uninhabited Caribbean island.

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Fauna & Flora, Anguilla National Trust, and Re:wild collaborated in 2021 to rescue the rare lizard species from extinction after devastating hurricane damage threatened their survival.

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Conservation teams successfully eliminated invasive mice populations and replanted native flora like seagrape and prickly pear to restore the island's ecosystem.

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Scientists discovered a massive new isopod species near the Spratly Islands, measuring 12.8 inches and weighing 2.2 pounds, earning comparison to Darth Vader's helmet.

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The newly identified Bathynomus vaderi joins a family of 20 giant isopod species, with its relative B. jamesi reaching impressive lengths of 20 inches.

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These supersized sea creatures, once considered cheap bycatch, now command premium prices in Asian seafood markets, with a Taipei restaurant serving one with ramen for $65.

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Marine researchers warn that rising commercial demand could either threaten the species' survival or lead to sustainable harvesting practices.

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The Sombrero Island habitat also shelters unique species like the Sombrero Island wind scorpion, an unnamed pygmy gecko, and the Sombrero Island bee.

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Similar conservation successes were achieved on other islands using innovative methods like drone-assisted rat removal and specialized tunnels for turtle migration.

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