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Species all over the world are declining at harrowing rates - driven by a mix of factors such as climate change and other human activities. But, there’s a bright light on the horizon.

WWF's latest report reveals that 234 new species were discovered by scientists in the Greater Mekong region back in 2023, including 173 species of vascular plants, 26 reptiles, 17 amphibians, 15 fishes and three mammals.

On this episode of Climate Connections, Uma Sachidhanandam, Director of Conservation & Science, WWF-Singapore explains what such discoveries mean for the Mekong region, how they’re named thereafter, and why the means through which some of these species are found reveal a more sinister plight. She also shares which three are her personal favourites!

Feature produced and edited by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Voiced by: Emaad Akhtar
Photo credits: WWF-Singapore, Truong Ba Vuong, Parinya Pawangkhanant
Music credits: pixabay & its talented community of contributors

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Climate Connections: How can we protect what we don't know? A deep dive into why new species discoveries are so crucial.